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Outsource your China payroll with full compliance and IIT filing
Run accurate, compliant payroll across every Chinese province without the overhead of an in-house team. We manage salary calculations, social insurance contributions, IIT withholding, and payslip delivery — on time, every month.
Our China payroll services are designed to be flexible, scalable, and cost-effective. They adapt to your company’s specific needs and growth. We offer a range of services that can be customized to fit your policies and requirements.
Interpreting legislation, complying with local rules, and providing all required documentation in multiple destinations are problematic tasks that can drain resources. You are expected to mitigate non-compliance risk in all places where your business operates while simplifying your payroll governance.
Initial Payroll Setup
Provide your employee data—we’ll handle payroll setup, data migration, and configuration to fit any compensation policy.
Monthly Payroll Services
MSA sends monthly reminders to confirm employee details. We handle payroll, statutory filings, IIT, salary payments, and reports—you just review and sign off.
Year-End Services
We handle all year-end tax filings and employee documents, ensuring accurate and compliant submissions.
Expert Support
Appoint a company representative to liaise with our support team for quick resolution of payroll inquiries, including direct support and employee query management.
Our cloud-based self-service portal provides interfaces for employees and management, offering seamless access to relevant payroll information and functionalities. The portal features include employee data management, attendance tracking, leave requests, and expense claims.
China Payroll Process: 5 Simple Steps to Implement Your Payroll
1. Initial Assessment
We assess your payroll needs, advise on the appropriate service (e.g., payroll processing vs a complete China PEO solution), and prepare for service commencement, identifying areas for improvement.
2. Service Blueprint
We produce a detailed payroll blueprint outlining all aspects of payroll administration, serving as a reference for both parties.
3. Testing Phase
We create a test environment, set up the system, migrate data, and integrate transaction data for your review and approval.
4. Parallel Run & Evaluation
We perform parallel payroll runs, compare with previous calculations, and resolve discrepancies before transitioning to our system.
5. Production
Your payroll system is fully operational, ready to serve your HR team and employees with ongoing support and updates.
Why Outsource Your Payroll to MSA?
1. Reduced Operating Costs
Save on expenses with our cost-effective payroll solutions. Our transparent and predictable fees ensure no hidden costs, and combining services like HR, accounting, and taxation can further reduce your spending.
2. Complete Payroll Solution
From payroll calculations and benefits to tax computations and payments, our comprehensive services ensure accurate and timely payroll management tailored to your company’s needs.
3. Effective Communication & Reporting
Stay informed and hassle-free with our consistent reporting and communication, managed through a single point of contact.
Why Choose MSA for Payroll Outsourcing in China?
1. Expertise You Can Trust
Our in-country payroll experts bring deep knowledge of Chinese payroll regulations and practices, ensuring your business remains compliant and efficient.
2. Simplified Payroll Management
With our online-managed payroll services, you can enjoy seamless payroll processing through our user-friendly platform, designed to simplify your administrative workload.
3. Key Features of Our Payroll Services
Integrated ComplianceWe handle all payroll calculations and processes, ensuring full compliance with Chinese payroll laws so you can focus on your core business.
Robust ReportingGain comprehensive insights into your HR management and expenses with detailed reports, helping you stay on top of any issues.
Online Management PortalManage your payroll effortlessly through our self-service platform, offering real-time access to payroll data and employee information.
China Payroll Brochure
The ideal China payroll solution your business needs!
For a comprehensive solution that can improve your business starting from 1 employee to several hundred, this solution can help you do the following:
Remove manual processes and improve your payroll accuracy
Increase your business intelligence and productivity
Reduce your employee turnover and increase employee satisfaction
Allow your HR teams to prioritize high level and strategic work
Download our brochure now and learn more about how our payroll software can help your business stay connected.
Why should we outsource our company’s China's payroll?
Outsourcing payroll allows you to focus on your core business activities while we handle payroll processing and compliance complexities.
What payroll software does MSA use?
We use state-of-the-art payroll software that ensures accuracy, compliance, and ease of use.
Does China have payroll tax?
Yes, China has specific payroll tax regulations that we ensure your business complies with.
Will I have a dedicated payroll consultant?
Yes, you will have a dedicated payroll consultant to assist with all your payroll needs.
Are there any hidden fees?
No, our pricing is transparent with no hidden fees.
What's the difference between payroll outsourcing and China PEO?
Usually payroll outsourcing is available where the company has a legal presence in China, but seeks to outsource back-office functions. China Professional Employer Organization (PEO) or Employer of Record (EOR) solutions are more substantial solutions for companies without any presence in China at all.
Does China follow OECD transfer pricing guidelines?
Although China is not an OECD member, its transfer pricing regime largely mirrors OECD recommendations, including BEPS Action 13 documentation requirements implemented through Bulletin 41 (2016). The Chinese State Taxation Administration has also published its own guidance reflecting local enforcement priorities — so alignment with OECD is necessary but not sufficient.
What happens during a Chinese transfer pricing audit?
Local tax bureaus review your documentation, intercompany agreements, and financial data to confirm your transactions comply with the arm’s-length principle. Hot zones include Shanghai, Beijing, Suzhou, Guangzhou, Nanjing, and Chengdu — each with local nuances. Good contemporaneous documentation is your best defense; weak documentation typically leads to adjustments plus interest and surcharges.
MSA is one of the most customer friendly incorporation firms in China. They took the time to understand our business and key objectives, then tailored the whole incorporation process accordingly.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
5/5
EOR & HR
Can Highly Recommend MSA!
MSA has been outstanding in providing comprehensive EOR services. Their team is incredibly knowledgeable about local employment laws and regulations, ensuring full compliance at all times.
RH
Rick H.
Verified on G2
5/5
Incorporation
Positive Experiences with MSA Throughout Whole Process
MSA was great to work with during the process of setting up our representative office in Shanghai. They were always responsive, clearly explained all required steps, and kept us on schedule.
JD
Jim D.
Verified on G2
5/5
Incorporation
Excellent Service for Company Incorporation and Compliance
We needed to set up a WFOE in China quickly to meet an important client deadline. MSA handled the entire process from start to finish, including registration, bank account setup, and initial compliance.
LN
Lisa N.
Verified on G2
5/5
Tax & Accounting
Help with Tax Matters in Malaysia
MSA's tax advisory team helped us navigate a complex cross-border tax situation between China and Malaysia. Their advice was practical and always tailored to our specific business structure.
VU
Katherine B.
Verified on G2
5/5
Tax & Accounting
Excellent Experience with MSA, 100% Recommended
From the very first consultation, MSA demonstrated deep expertise in Asia business services. They helped us restructure our regional operations for better tax efficiency.
VU
Jeanne Y.
Verified on G2
4.5/5
Advisory
Global Standards, China Know-How
We were looking for a partner that understood both international standards and local Chinese business practices. MSA turned out to be exactly that kind of partner.
TG
Tom G.
Verified on G2
5/5
EOR & HR
Entering HK and China First via EOR Then Setting Up Our Subsidiary
MSA helped us enter the Chinese and Hong Kong markets quickly through their EOR service, while simultaneously handling the full subsidiary setup process.
SS
Sinan S.
Verified on G2
5/5
EOR & HR
Our Experience with EOR Services Switching to MSA
Switching our EOR services to MSA was one of the best decisions we made. The transition was seamless, and we saw immediate improvements in both service quality and cost efficiency.
VU
Dennis K.
Verified on G2
5/5
Tax & Accounting
MSA Promised and Delivered Effortless Transition
When we decided to switch our accounting and compliance services to MSA, we were nervous about the transition. MSA made it completely stress-free with a clear migration plan.
VC
Victoria C.
Verified on G2
5/5
EOR & HR
We Did Payroll Optimization with MSA, Worked Like a Charm
Our payroll processes across multiple Asian entities were fragmented and inefficient. MSA consolidated everything into a streamlined system that reduced errors significantly.
CY
Chris Y.
Verified on G2
5/5
Tax & Accounting
Tax Declaration and Accounting Support, + IFRS Reporting
MSA handles all our tax declarations and accounting in China with exceptional accuracy. Their team also provides IFRS-compliant reporting which simplifies our global consolidation.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
5/5
EOR & HR
MSA Onboarded Our Team via PEO: Can Recommend Absolutely!
We needed to quickly onboard a team of 5 engineers in China without having a local entity. MSA's PEO solution was perfect — fully compliant and operational within 2 weeks.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
5/5
Tax & Accounting
Our Go-To Partner for Solving Tax and Cashflow Issues
MSA has been our go-to partner whenever we face tax or cashflow challenges in China. Their proactive approach means they often identify issues before they become problems.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
4.5/5
Advisory
Dedicated Service Solving Issues
What stands out about MSA is their dedicated approach to problem-solving. When we had a complex visa issue for one of our employees, they worked tirelessly until it was resolved.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
5/5
Tax & Accounting
Tax Optimisation in China
MSA's tax optimization strategies saved our company a significant amount in our China operations. Their team identified several tax incentives we were eligible for but hadn't been claiming.
WH
Wilson H.
Verified on G2
4.5/5
Tax & Accounting
Cost Savings Through Accounting- and Tax Restructuring
We engaged MSA to review our accounting and tax structure in China. Their recommendations led to substantial cost savings while keeping us fully compliant with local regulations.
ES
Edouardo S.
Verified on G2
5/5
Incorporation
Nanjing Company Incorporation
Setting up our company in Nanjing was made straightforward by MSA. They handled all the local government interactions, documentation, and registration processes efficiently.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
4.5/5
Tax & Accounting
We Liquidated One of Our Subsidiaries in China with MSA
Liquidating a Chinese subsidiary is notoriously complex. MSA managed the entire process professionally, handling tax clearances, employee settlements, and deregistration.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
5/5
Incorporation
Excellent Help with Setting Up WFOE in Shanghai
MSA provided excellent support throughout our WFOE setup in Shanghai. They were transparent about timelines, costs, and requirements from the very beginning.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
5/5
Incorporation
Establishment of Our RO with Guidance of MSA
We wanted to explore the Chinese market but were not ready to set up a full company. MSA guided us in making the right choice based on our company's activities and goals.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
5/5
Incorporation
MSA Went Far and Beyond During Our WFOE Set-Up in China
Interest, response time, diverse cultural backgrounds, and assistance in different languages made our WFOE setup experience exceptional.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
5/5
Tax & Accounting
MSA Set Up Our WFOE in Shanghai and Works from Our Accounting System
Clear advice and instructions during the setup. And the ability to work in our accounting environment, so we can easily consolidate the financials at headquarters level.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
5/5
Incorporation
MSA Helped Setting Up Our Subsidiary in China
We saw business opportunities in China and were debating whether to set up a company. Due to the excellent guidance of MSA we were able to successfully establish our subsidiary.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
5/5
Tax & Accounting
Our Go-To for China Tax Issues and Support
Responsive and proactive team that listens to our issues and comes with practical and quick solutions.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
5/5
Incorporation
Great Support Setting Up WFOE in Beijing
Ability to speak Dutch, clear and fast communication, and guidance and advice along the way made the process smooth.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
5/5
Advisory
Great Backoffice Support
They require very little input from our side, but if we need some clarifications, they are quick to respond.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
5/5
Advisory
Fast and Easy Entry to China
Communication was very fast and easy, services clearly communicated. MSA made our market entry straightforward.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
5/5
Incorporation
Starting Our JV in China with the Support of MSA
Knowledge, responsiveness, and cultural understanding made MSA an invaluable partner for our joint venture setup.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
5/5
Advisory
Great Partner to Complement Our Own Service Portfolio
They add value to our customers while respecting that we are the primary contact for them.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
5/5
Incorporation
Great Assistance During Company Incorporation in China!
Professional expertise and English proficiency made the entire incorporation process smooth and efficient.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
5/5
Advisory
Great Support in China
They cover also smaller cities in China, providing excellent support regardless of location.
VU
Verified User
Verified on G2
1,500+ Companies Served · Since 2011 · 9 Asian Markets
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