After completing website ICP filing, displaying the filing number correctly on your site is a basic requirement for compliance. According to the "Administrative Measures on Internet Information Services," filed websites must indicate the filing number at the bottom of the page. So, where exactly should you place the filing information? This article provides common practices and important notes.
1. Best Placement: Full-Width Footer Bar
The most common and compliant approach is to place the filing number in the footer area of every page, typically as a full-width bar. For example, on the left or center of the footer, right after the copyright or company name. Benefits include:
- Visible on every page, meeting regulatory requirements;
- Does not interfere with main content, keeping the page clean;
- Easy for users to find and for authorities to inspect.
The filing number usually appears as "京ICP备XXXXXXXX号" or "粤ICP备XXXXXXXX号" and should include a hyperlink to the MIIT filing verification system (www.beian.miit.gov.cn).
2. Other Common Placement Methods
In addition to the footer bar, some websites use these approaches:
- Dedicated "Filing Information" Page: A link in the footer, such as "ICP Filing" or "Filing Info," leads to a separate page with the full filing number, entity name, and other details. This is suitable for sites with multiple filing numbers or detailed information to display.
- Top Bar or Sidebar: A few sites place the filing number in the top banner or sidebar, but this may affect aesthetics and is less common than the footer bar.
Regardless of the method, ensure the filing number and its link are accessible on every page of the website and that the link remains valid.
3. Key Considerations for Placing Filing Information
- Correct Link: The filing number must link to the MIIT filing management system (domain must be beian.miit.gov.cn), not to other URLs or without a link.
- Readable Font: The font size of the filing number should not be too small; it should match the size of other footer text for easy readability.
- No Hiding: Filing information must not be hidden programmatically or displayed only under specific conditions; it must be continuously visible.
- Keep Updated: If filing information changes, update the filing number on your website promptly.
4. What If Your Website Has Multiple Domains?
If your corporate website uses multiple domains (e.g., main domain and Chinese domain), you typically only need to display the primary filing number. However, it is recommended to add all domains to the filing system during registration and display the same filing number at the bottom of each domain's website. If using subdomains, the filing number should generally also be shown at the bottom of subdomain pages.
5. Common Mistakes
- Only on the Homepage: Some sites place the filing number only on the homepage footer, not on inner pages. This does not meet requirements; all pages must display it.
- Incorrect Format: The correct format is "ICP备XXXXXXXX号," not "ICP备字" or "备案号."
- Broken Link: The MIIT filing verification system's domain has changed in the past; ensure you use the current official domain.
Conclusion
Placing filing information may seem simple, but compliance is critical. We recommend that business websites naturally integrate the filing number into the footer bar during construction or redesign, ensuring the link is correct and visible on all pages. This not only meets regulatory requirements but also reflects the site's professionalism. For questions about filing requirements, refer to the MIIT official website or consult a professional web service provider.
