Key practical points:
• Licences can only be created by law; conditions cannot be added without a legal basis.
• Licence conditions, decision timeframes, and fees must be published and clear in advance.
• The agency has a set period to decide and must give written reasons for a refusal.
• Many fees have been abolished, and no fee may be charged without a legal basis.
• You may challenge a decision through administrative reconsideration or a lawsuit.
• Reforms encourage commitment-and-notification and one-window service to speed up processing.
Administrative Licensing Law of China · Yalla China
中华人民共和国行政许可法 / Administrative Licensing Law of the PRC
Enacted: 2003-08-27 ✅ Effective: 2004-07-01
📝 Overview
This law governs how government agencies grant licences and approvals, such as business, operating, and construction permits. The goal is to simplify procedures, prevent arbitrariness, and protect applicants' rights. It took effect in 2004.
This is general information only, not legal advice. For your specific case, consult a licensed lawyer.
📜 The law text / key provisions
💬 Practical reading
💬 This is a general reading/opinion for orientation — not the official legal text nor legal advice.
When applying for a licence, ask in advance for the list of conditions, timeframe, and official fees, and keep the submission receipt. If the decision is delayed or refused without clear reason, you may seek administrative reconsideration or a lawsuit. This is general orientation, not legal advice.
📎 Official source
National People's Congress / npc.gov.cn
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026