What is "foreign qualification"?

“Foreign qualification,” also known as "foreign entity registration," refers to registering your business with the secretary of state office of another state. It enables businesses to legally pursue growth opportunities across state borders without having to incorporate a new business entity.

Is my business classified as foreign?

Your business would be classified as foreign in every state in the United States other than the state of incorporation. This does not apply to business activities conducted outside the United States.

What is a certificate of authority?

A certificate of authority is the document issued by secretary of state or state business filing office showing that an entity has completed foreign qualification or registration and is authorized to do business in that state. Thus, the certificate of authority is the document you get after completing the foreign entity registration or foreign qualification process.

How do I get a certificate of good standing?

A certificate of good standing is one of the documents required to complete a foreign entity registration. LegalNature can easily obtain a certificate for you. All you need to do is fill out our short questionnaire.

How long does it take to obtain a foreign entity registration approval?

Processing times are dependent on the state of registration and vary greatly. Use our state-specific questionnaire to obtain information about your state processing times or call with questions.

Foreign Entity

To conduct business outside your state of formation, you must register your company as a foreign entity in each additional state in which you operate.

This process is also known as "Foreign Qualification." Transacting business in a new state without foreign entity registration can lead to severe monetary penalties and a restriction of your right to bring or maintain a lawsuit or other legal proceeding.

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Foreign Entity

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FAQS

When to Register as a Foreign Entity

To open a new office in a state other than the state of incorporation
To hire employees who are residents of a state other than the state of incorporation
To purchase a company property in a state other than the state of incorporation
To offer services, sell products, or bid for a contract in a state other than the state of incorporation
To obtain a professional license in a state other than the state of incorporation

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Expand Your Operations

Out-of-state companies are required to obtain this authorization before conducting business in each additional state. This is the first step toward expanding your company onto a regional or national scale.

Avoid Fines and Penalties

Failure to register as a foreign entity could result in hefty fines and require you to pay substantial back taxes.

Available in All 50 States

We provide this service for all 50 states. Depending on your state, this may be called a foreign entity registration, foreign qualification, or a certificate of registration.

Quick and Easy

After placing your order, we will immediately begin completing and processing your application. We will keep you posted regarding the status of your application and will notify you as soon as you have been approved.

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