Can A Corporate Seal Be Used Without Registration?
Publish Time: 2026-02-10
On December 6, 2024, the “Decision of the State Council on Amending and Abolishing Certain Administrative Regulations” (State Order No. 797) emphasized in the revision of the “Interim Regulations on the Engraving and Casting of Seals” that corporate seal information must be registered with the Public Security Bureau.In complex business operations, a corporate seal plays a crucial role. Within a company, the seal symbolizes authority and represents the company in signing contracts, documents, and other important functions. Its effect is equivalent to the signature of the legal representative. Therefore, using an unregistered seal directly places the company at risk.Registered Seals Provide Legal CredibilityA registered seal is more easily recognized by judicial authorities in legal disputes. In the event of contract disagreements, debt issues, or other lawsuits, documents signed with a registered seal can provide strong evidence to protect the company’s legitimate rights.Verification by Partner CompaniesUsing an unregistered seal may indicate poor internal management, reducing the company’s credibility and professionalism. Partners may doubt the company’s reliability and stability, potentially impacting business cooperation and causing missed opportunities.Internal Management RisksWithout a formal registration and supervision mechanism, seal use may become irregular, increasing the risk of employees misusing the seal for personal gain.How to Verify an Electronic Seal’s Registration StatusElectronic contracts and registration certificates can be verified directly on the National Electronic Seal Management and Service Platform hosted by the Third Research Institute of the Ministry of Public Security. Each electronic seal is issued with a unique registration certificate for verification.
