ICP Filing for Apps
Overview
As of September 1, 2023, all mobile applications published or distributed in China must complete ICP filing with the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT). This requirement ensures compliance with national laws and cybersecurity regulations, helping maintain a secure and transparent mobile ecosystem.
Note: The MIIT App ICP Filing policy came into effect on September 1, 2023. We strongly recommend completing the filing process as early as possible to avoid disruption.
What Is MIIT App ICP Filing?
MIIT app ICP filing is a mandatory regulatory process for mobile app developers, operators, or publishers to offer their apps legally in China. The process is supervised by MIIT and often conducted through an Internet Service Provider (ISP) such as Alibaba Cloud or Tencent Cloud.
Who Needs to File?
You must complete an App ICP Filing if:
- Your app is distributed through Chinese app stores (e.g. Huawei, Xiaomi, Tencent)
- Your app targets users in mainland China
- Your app collects or processes user data in China
Implementation Timeline
- Before Sep 1, 2023: Apps already on Chinese app stores must complete filing by March 31, 2024
- After Sep 1, 2023: Apps must complete filing before being published
- Apr 1 – Jun 30, 2024: Supervision and enforcement period begins
Required Materials
| # | Item | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Mainland China legal entity | Yes | A company registered in mainland China |
| 2 | Eligible domain name | Yes | See Domain Name and Hosting |
| 3 | Hosting in mainland China | Yes | A physical or virtual server deployed within China |
| 4 | App technical & business info | Yes | See App Information |
| 5 | Pre-approvals for special sectors | Optional | For apps in finance, education, healthcare, etc. |
Do not have a Mainland China legal entity? We can help you! Just get in touch with us!
Domain Name and Hosting
Domain Name
- Must use an approved top-level domain (e.g. .com, .cn, .net, .com.cn)
- Must be registered with a Chinese registrar (e.g. Alibaba Cloud, Tencent Cloud)
- Must complete real-name verification under your legal entity
Hosting
You must deploy at least part of your app backend (API, static files, etc.) on a server located in mainland China. Hosting with providers like Alibaba Cloud or Tencent Cloud is recommended.
App Information
| # | Item | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | App Name | Yes | Must match app store submission |
| 2 | App Category | Yes | Must reflect primary app function |
| 3 | SDK Information | Yes | List of third-party SDKs used |
| 4 | Supported Languages | Yes | e.g. Chinese, English |
| 5 | Website Content | Yes | If your app opens web content |
| 6 | Platforms Supported | Yes | e.g. Android, iOS, HarmonyOS |
| 7 | Domain Names Used | Yes | List all domains integrated with the app |
| 8 | App Package Name / Bundle ID | Yes | Android/iOS ID |
| 9 | Public Key | Yes | Public key of signing certificate |
| 10 | MD5 or SHA-1 Fingerprint | Yes | Certificate fingerprint used for signing |
For Android, the public key is the modulus of the signing certificate. For iOS, retrieve the certificate from your Apple developer account.
Filing Process
- Prepare required materials and documents
- Register with a provincial MIIT portal (via hosting provider)
- Fill out the application online, attach materials
- Await review (normally 10–20 business days)
- Receive official filing number
Approval Timeline
If you lack a local legal entity or hosting, expect longer delays.
In general, approval takes 2-3 weeks, though high-volume periods or document issues can cause delays.
Post-Filing Requirements
Once approved, apps must display the ICP filing number prominently inside the app (typically in Settings, About, or Help section). The number should be hyperlinked to: https://beian.miit.gov.cn
Official Reference
You may refer to the original MIIT policy document (Chinese):
Notice of the MIIT on the Filing of Mobile Internet Apps
Need Help?
We provide end-to-end support for ICP filing and compliance issues, including document preparation, partner coordination, and post-approval display requirements.
Contact us for personalized guidance.