Register your out-of-state business to do business in California.
Foreign qualification is what California requires when an entity formed in another state wants to legally transact business in California. This guide walks through when it is required, the documents needed, the $70 fee, and the process.
Start California foreign qualification →When you need to foreign-qualify in California
California requires foreign qualification when an out-of-state entity is doing business in the state. Triggers include:
- Physical office or storefront in California.
- Employees working in California.
- Real property ownership in California.
- Holding a bank account or credit line for California-located operations.
- Recurring contracts or sales with California customers.
- Licenses or permits requiring entity registration.
Up a level, or across to the neighbors.
Foreign Qualification by state
The national explainer above this page: what changes between jurisdictions, and why.
Open the hub → SectionSecretary of State directory
Every filing the state business office takes, state by state.
Open the section → StateCalifornia business filings
Every filing a business makes in California, gathered on one page.
Open California → In CaliforniaSales Tax Permit in California
Sales tax permits, state by state
Read the guide → In CaliforniaProfessional LLC and PC in California
Professional LLC and PC, state by state
Read the guide → In CaliforniaSecretary of State Certificate of Good Standing in California
Certificate of Good Standing, state by state
Read the guide → In CaliforniaSecretary of State Forms in California
Secretary of State forms, state by state
Read the guide →