Introduction
In 2024, China introduced a new regulatory requirement for all mobile apps distributed within mainland China — known as the App ICP Filing (App Filing/App备案).
This filing, officially managed by the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT), applies to all app developers, publishers, and app stores that make apps available to Chinese users.
Similar to the ICP Filing for websites, ICP Filing for apps ensures that mobile apps operate legally within China’s cybersecurity and data protection framework.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire App ICP Filing process, including who needs it, the required documents, and how to stay compliant in 2025.
What is App ICP Filing (App 备案)?
App ICP Filing is an official registration process with the MIIT for mobile apps that provide services or content to users in mainland China.
It is part of China’s efforts to strengthen internet governance and ensure app developers:
- Operate legally under Chinese law,
- Protect user data and privacy, and
- Clearly identify the responsible entities behind each app.
Without a valid App ICP Filing number, your app may be removed from Chinese app stores or blocked from distribution.
Who Must File an App ICP Filing?
You must complete the App ICP Filing if your app meets any of the following:
- It is distributed through Chinese app stores (e.g., Huawei AppGallery, Tencent App Store, Xiaomi Store).
- It is operated by a Chinese-registered company or local entity.
- It provides services, content, or data collection for users in mainland China.
Foreign developers who publish through Chinese partners (local publishers or distributors) are also covered — the Chinese partner is typically responsible for submitting the filing.
Required Documents for App ICP Filing
For Companies (App Owners or Publishers):
- Business license (registered in China)
- Legal representative ID
- App information form (app name, version, category, functions)
- App download URL or QR code (optional, for MIIT inspection)
- Developer or publisher contact information
For Individual (App Owners or Publishers):
- Chinese ID card (front and back)
- App information form (app name, version, category, functions)
- App download URL or QR code (optional, for MIIT inspection)
- Developer or publisher contact information
Step-by-Step App ICP Filing Process
Step 1: Prepare Application Materials
Collect all necessary business and app-related documents, ensuring your information is consistent with your app store listing and domain registration.
Step 2: Submit to the Hosting Provider
ICP Filings are not submitted directly to MIIT – instead, they must go through your Chinese hosting provider, which acts as the first reviewer.
Most app developers submit through an online filing portal provided by their hosting provider.
Step 3: MIIT Review
The MIIT reviews your materials to confirm:
- Legal registration of the business entity
- Compliance of app content and functionality
- Accuracy of privacy and data handling statements
This review process generally takes 20–30 working days.
Step 4: Filing Number Issued
Once approved, the MIIT issues an official ICP Filing Number (备案号).
You must display this number within your app, typically in:
- The “About” or “Settings” section, or
- The app’s download page in Chinese app stores.
Step 5: Annual Inspection and Updates
If your app changes its ownership, function, or data collection scope, you must update the filing accordingly.
MIIT may also require annual renewals or inspections.
Timeline Summary
| Stage | Responsible Party | Estimated Time |
|---|---|---|
| Material Preparation | Developer / Publisher | 3–7 days |
| Submission to MIIT | Local MIIT Bureau | 1–2 days |
| Review & Approval | MIIT | 20–30 working days |
| Total Time | 3–5 weeks |
Compliance Tips
- Your app name, version, and publisher name must match across the app, store, and filing materials.
- Keep your privacy policy updated and compliant with China’s Personal Information Protection Law (PIPL).
- Apps offering online payments, content sharing, or social interaction may require additional licenses (e.g., ICP Commercial License, Network Culture Operation License).
- Unfiled apps may be removed from Chinese app stores after MIIT enforcement deadlines.
Conclusion
The App ICP Filing is now a critical requirement for operating mobile apps in mainland China.
Just like the ICP Filing for websites, it confirms that your application and business entity are legally registered and compliant under Chinese internet law.
