China, with a population of over 1.4 billion, has over 90% of its people using WeChat, the super app that revolutionizes everyday life.
Since its launch in 2011, WeChat has evolved from a simple instant messaging app into a comprehensive super app that covers every aspect of daily life.
This powerful app offers a wide range of functions, including video calls, sending red envelopes, making payments, ordering takeout, booking hotels, hailing taxis, paying taxes, scheduling doctor visits, and many more.
Hailed by tech leaders like Elon Musk as the "one app to rule them all," WeChat has captivated the global tech scene for years.
Think of WeChat as an integration of top apps like Facebook, WhatsApp, Twitter, TikTok, Apple Pay, Venmo, leading banking apps, and the App Store. In simple terms, WeChat combines all these individual apps into one seamless experience.
Explore why WeChat is the future of apps and discover its vast potential in the booming Chinese market.
What is a WeChat Official Account?
WeChat primarily offers two types of accounts: Personal Accounts for individual use and Official Accounts for businesses.
A WeChat Official Account functions similarly to a Facebook fan page, designed to disseminate brand culture and corporate information.
In China, where over 90% of internet users connect via mobile devices, a WeChat Official Account can effectively replace a branded website. Only 37% of Chinese internet users access the web through desktop devices, including laptops.
WeChat Official Accounts provide a wealth of features beyond those of a standard Personal Account. These include message management, mass messaging, user management, data analysis, voting systems, membership systems, QR codes, and even integration with third-party development applications.
How to Create and Verify an Official WeChat Account as a Non-Chinese Business?
WeChat has made its registration and verification available for both Chinese and non-Chinese individuals and businesses.
Step 1: Register WeChat Official Account
Visit https://mp.weixin.qq.com/ and click the “REGISTER NOW” button at the upper right corner above the QR code.
Step 2: Choose the Account Type
WeChat offers 4 types of Official Accounts. At the moment, non-Chinese businesses can only register a Service Account. Choose accordingly.
Step 3: Enter Basic Information
Enter the email address, verification code (6 digits, will be sent in real-time), and passwords as login details.
Step 4: Select the Business Location
Select the country in which the business is incorporated.
Step 5: Enter Business Information
Enter the following information accordingly.
Business Type (Enterprise or sole proprietorship)
Business Name (Please enter the company name as shown on the company's certificate of registration or business license issued by the local government. The name cannot be modified after verification.)
Company Registration No. (It needs to be consistent with the enterprise registration number on the enterprise registration certificate or business registration certificate and other enterprise certificates issued by the local government. After successful review of information, the enterprise name cannot be modified.)
Admin Person’s Name (Enter the Official Account admin's full name exactly as shown on their ID card.)
Admin Person’s Phone Number (One number can only register 5 WeChat Official Accounts; a verification code will be sent in real-time as SMS; non-Chinese phone numbers are supported)
SMS Verification Code
Admin Person’s ID No. (Enter the admin's ID card number, passport number, or driver's license number.)
Step 6: WeChat Official Account Details
Enter the following information accordingly.
Account Name (4-30 characters [Note: 1 Chinese character counts as 2 characters])
Features Introduction (Enter an introduction (4-120 characters) to describe the Official Account's features and services.)
Regions / Country of Business Operation
Step 7: Verification
Now you can log into the account. In the left menu column, extend “Settings and Development,” select “WeChat Verification,” and click “Enable” to proceed to uploading files for verification.
Here is the list of information and files needed for verification:
Business Full Legal Name
Company Registration No.
Company Registration Address
Company Website (optional)
“Certificate of Incorporation” or “Business License” (Format Requirements: Photo of the original, scanned original, or copy affixed with official seal; supports JPG, JPEG, BMP, GIF, and PNG files; max size is 5 MB.)
Other Supporting Documents (optional)
Apart from business-related information, a contact person for the verification and their information is also required.
Contact Person Name (Tencent will call the contact person during the review process. Letter casing should be consistent with that on the documents.)
Contact Person Mobile No. (Enter the contact person's mobile number. We'll call the contact person via this number during the review process. A verification code will be sent to the person in real-time, which is valid for 10 minutes.)
SMS Verification Code
Contact Person’s Email
Contact Person’s ID No.
Some files are required for the verification process:
Application Letter (Application Letter is downloadable on the page; needs to be signed or stamped)
Letter of Authorization for Operation (Letter of Authorization for Operation is downloadable on the page, signed or stamped.)
Contact Person’s Mobile Phone Bill (Recent 3 months)
Contact Person’s ID Scan (Back and front)
Step 8: Payment
Make a one-time payment for the initial verification of 600 RMB.
Step 9: Completion
Once you make the payment, your application will be submitted. Tencent’s official third-party authenticators will review your information and get in touch for more information if needed. Once all the files pass the check, your account will be set up and verified in about 5-7 working days.
What It Means to Have A Verified WeChat Official Account for Businesses?
Having a WeChat Official Account is crucial for businesses looking to succeed in China. With over 90% of the population using WeChat, it is an essential platform for reaching and engaging with consumers.
A WeChat Official Account not only allows businesses to disseminate information and build brand awareness but also provides a comprehensive suite of tools for managing customer relationships, conducting transactions, and analyzing data.
By leveraging WeChat's extensive features and vast user base, businesses can establish a strong presence, foster customer loyalty, and drive growth in the competitive Chinese market.
Brands Without Borders provides full services to help you register and verify your official accounts on WeChat and other popular Chinese social apps.
Ready to skyrocket your brand’s presence on WeChat? Dive into this guide and get started today! For a customized boost for your brand on all major Chinese digital channels, reach out to our stellar support team!
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