Investor's Guide Procedures for Registering a Representative Office Find office space and sign a lease contract to be included in registration application. Gather documentation required for application. The required documentation is extensive. Contact Shanghai Municipal Economic Relations and Trade Commission (SMERT), foreign chambers of commerce, or professional consulting companies for details. Fill out application in both English and Chinese. Submit 3 copies of documentation and application to sponsor for review. Wait 3-4 weeks for SMERT approval. Apply to Shanghai Administration of Industry and Commerce for representative permits and business license. Obtain health permit. Apply for resident permit and visa. Register with Tax Bureau. Register with Customs. Open bank account.