How to Simplify Website Filing for SMEs?
For small and medium enterprises, website filing is a mandatory step before going live. Simply put, filing means submitting the website owner's real information to the communications authority to obtain a filing number. The process is straightforward if materials are complete and accurate, typically taking 1-20 business days. Let's dive into the specifics.
What to Prepare Before Filing?
Before starting, gather the following materials and information:
- Business License: A clear color scan or photo of the company's business license copy.
- Responsible Person Info: Scans of the ID card (front and back) of the website responsible person, plus a photo of them holding the ID (some regions require a clear background).
- Domain Certificate: The domain registration certificate, ensuring the domain is verified and matches the company info.
- Website Name: The site name should relate to the company's brand or business, not too broad.
- Service Provider Info: Choose a reliable server or hosting provider, as they offer a filing system to assist submission.
Preparing these in advance avoids repeated submissions and saves time.
Four-Step Filing Process
The entire process can be done online, roughly in four steps:
- Submit Application: Log into the provider's filing platform, fill in entity, website, and responsible person details, and upload prepared materials.
- Provider Review: The provider reviews the submission, usually within 1-2 business days. Errors will be flagged for correction.
- Authority Review: After initial approval, it's sent to the local communications authority. Review time varies by region, typically 7-20 business days. You may receive a verification SMS and need to respond promptly.
- Get Filing Number: Once approved, you'll get an SMS from MIIT. Download the filing number from the system and display it at the bottom of your website.
Note: The website cannot be accessed during filing, but you can prepare content and testing in advance, then launch after obtaining the number.
Common Filing Questions for SMEs
Q1: Does filing cost money?
Filing itself is free via the provider. However, you need to purchase a domain and server/hosting, which are necessary expenses.
Q2: What if I fill in wrong info?
If under review, contact the provider to revise. If already approved, log into the system to submit a change request.
Q3: Where to place the filing number?
Per regulations, it must be at the bottom of the website page, linked to the MIIT filing inquiry site.
Q4: Do I need to refile if I change server or domain?
If only changing server (same provider), usually no refiling needed, but update the provider info. If changing domain or provider, you may need to modify or refile, depending on the provider's requirements.
Tips for SMEs
Filing may seem tedious, but most companies pass smoothly by following steps. These tips can help:
- Choose a provider with good service, as their system often has detailed guides and support.
- Ensure all submitted info is true and consistent, especially the business license and domain owner matching the filing entity.
- Check local authority requirements beforehand, as some regions have special restrictions on website names.
- If the site involves special industries (e.g., commercial sites), you may need an ICP license. Consult your provider or a professional service first.
Completing filing is just the first step. Ongoing content maintenance and user experience optimization will make the website truly valuable for your business.
