Register your out-of-state business to do business in Michigan.

Foreign qualification is what Michigan requires when an entity formed in another state wants to legally transact business in Michigan. This guide walks through when it is required, the documents needed, the $50 fee, and the process.

When you need to foreign-qualify in Michigan

Michigan requires foreign qualification when an out-of-state entity is doing business in the state. Triggers include:

• Physical office or storefront in Michigan.
• Employees working in Michigan.
• Real property ownership in Michigan.
• Holding a bank account or credit line for Michigan-located operations.
• Recurring contracts or sales with Michigan customers.
• Licenses or permits requiring entity registration.