How do I qualify or register a foreign (out–of–state or out–of–country) business entity in California?

A foreign business entity can qualify/register to transact business in California online at bizfileOnline.sos.ca.gov. Filing tips are included with each online form.

  • Corporation: File a Statement and Designation by Foreign Corporation online at bizfileOnline.sos.ca.gov. The online forms have been drafted to meet the minimum statutory requirements. You must attach a valid certificate of good standing by an authorized public official of the foreign jurisdiction under which the foreign corporation is incorporated.

    • Register – Out-of-State Corporation – Stock
    • Register – Out-of-State Corporation – Accountancy or Law
    • Register – Out-of-State Corporation – Nonprofit
  • Limited Liability Company: File a Registration – Out-of-State LLC online at bizfileOnline.sos.ca.gov. The online forms have been drafted to meet the minimum statutory requirements. You must attach a valid certificate of good standing by an authorized public official of the foreign jurisdiction under which the foreign limited liability company is organized.
  • Limited Partnership: File a Registration – Out-of-State LP online at bizfileOnline.sos.ca.gov. The online forms have been drafted to meet the minimum statutory requirements. You must attach a valid certificate of good standing (or other record of similar import) by an authorized public official of the foreign jurisdiction under which the foreign limited partnership is organized.

https://www.sos.ca.gov/business-programs/business-entities/faqs#form-question7