Arizona Foreign LLC – Qualification and Registration


Steve Goldstein
Steve Goldstein
Business Formation Expert
Steve Goldstein runs LLCBuddy, helping entrepreneurs set up their LLCs easily. He offers clear guides, articles, and FAQs to simplify the process. His team keeps everything accurate and current, focusing on state rules, registered agents, and compliance. Steve’s passion for helping businesses grow makes LLCBuddy a go-to resource for starting and managing an LLC.

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If you already have an LLC in another state and want an Arizona LLC, then how to start an LLC would be somewhat different. You must register as a foreign LLC. We have here a guide on how you can qualify and register for a foreign LLC in Arizona.

Forming an Arizona Foreign LLC

A foreign LLC does not need to be a company from another country but a business formed under the laws of another state. To start a foreign LLC in Arizona, you need to register it with the Arizona Secretary of State.

Step 1: Choose Arizona Foreign LLC Name

Obtain a name reservation certificate and submit it with your foreign qualification requirements at the Arizona Secretary of State. Your LLC’s legal name outside of Arizona will be listed on the application, along with the name it will use in Arizona. Take note of the requirements for naming your LLC.

Check name availability at Arizona’s business entity names and reserve your LLC name.

Step 2: Select Arizona Foreign LLC Registered Agent

You’ll need a registered agent to form a foreign LLC in Arizona and take note that an Arizona registered agent must have a local address. Here are three of the best LLC services on our list that will provide you with registered agents to ease your worries:

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Step 3: File Registration of Arizona Foreign LLC

Fill out and submit a Foreign LLC Application for Registration form via email using the emailing page of the Arizona Secretary of State or by mail to Arizona Corporate Commission, Examination Section 1300 W, Washington Street, Phoenix, Arizona 85007.

Include the following:

  • LLC’s full legal name.
  • A fictitious name or a DBA (only if your LLC’s legal name is not available); Attach a statement of adoption of the fictitious name signed by all LLC members.
  • LLC’s principal office and mailing addresses.
  • LLC formation state and date.
  • Registered agent’s name and address in Arizona.
  • Date when your LLC will start operations in Arizona.
  • Credit card information on the last page of the form for the $150 application fee.

The LLC cost in Arizona, even for foreign LLCs will differ between online filing and by mail.

Step 4: Determine How Your Arizona Foreign LLC is taxed

Foreign LLCs are also subjected to the Arizona Business Privilege Tax, and they must file LLC annual reports each year.

Note that forming a foreign LLC would be good for your business as you can legally operate in a different state thus reaching a larger market and opening more opportunities for higher profit.

Steps to Filing an Arizona Foreign LLC Online

Time needed: 5 minutes

A foreign LLC is a form of the regular LLC business structure originally registered in another state and wants to conduct its business in the State of Arizona. When you are registering for the foreign LLC in this particular State, you will have to submit your Application for Registration of foreign LLC with the Secretary of State which costs $150. After approval, you will receive a Verification Certificate from the State Office. We have explained the aspects you need to cover when you apply for Arizona Foreign LLC.

  1. Visit the website

    Go to the official website of the Arizona Corporation Commission. The website will guide you on how to file a registration application for a foreign LLC in Arizona online.

  2. Sign in to your account

    The opening page will ask for your login credentials for the eCorp Account. If you have already created an account on the platform, then fill in your login details and continue to “Sign-in”

  3. Create your Account

    If you do not have an eCorp account, click on the “Register” option on the page. This will navigate you to the Register page, where you must fill in your basic details such as First and Last name, and email address.

  4. Proceed with the Registration

    After registering your account on the eCorp platform, log in with your username and password. After logging in, select the “Online Services” option. Then, choose the option of “Start a New Business” and proceed with the filing of your documents for application for Articles of Incorporation for foreign LLC with the State of Arizona.

It is convenient plus easy to file for the foreign LLC if you are doing it online. The steps are very easy and that’s why it’s possible to go along with the steps and form the foreign LLC in Arizona.

Filing Arizona Foreign LLC by Mail

The State of Arizona also provides an easy mechanism to file the application for Registration of foreign LLCs by mail. By following the instructions below, one can file the application in Arizona.

  1. Download the application form PDF. It can be filled out online and/or printed and then filled out in pen and mailed to the Arizona State Authorities.
  2. Read the information carefully in the form. Fill in the required details such as name and the original jurisdiction of your business, name and address of your registered agent, names and addresses of your business managers/members.
  3. Make the payment: Make a cheque with the Basic Filing fee of $150.00.
  4. Once you complete all the steps, mail your application to the following mailing address: Arizona Corporation Commission – Examination Section 1300 W. Washington St., Phoenix, Arizona 85007.

After Forming Arizona Foreign LLC

Here are added things you need to accomplish after forming your Arizona Foreign LLC

  1. Obtain Business Licenses. Find the business licenses you’ll need using the Business License Search.
  2. File LLC annual reports and Business Privilege Tax.
  3. Pay State Taxes like sales tax; you’ll need an EIN for your LLC.

F.A.Qs

What is a foreign LLC in Arizona?

If your LLC is formed under the laws of another state, it is referred to as a foreign LLC in Arizona.

Do I need a foreign LLC?

Businesses incorporated outside of the state where they operate must have “foreign qualifications” issued in the other states.

What is the main difference between domestic and foreign LLC?

A domestic LLC is a company registered in Arizona as an LLC. The entity type that has a physical presence in another state is a foreign LLC.

How Much Does It Cost to Register a Foreign LLC in Arizona

To register as a foreign LLC in Arizona, you can file online by paying a filing amount of $150 to the Arizona Corporation Commission.

First and foremost, it’s important to note that the cost of registering a foreign LLC in Arizona can vary depending on several factors, including the nature of your business and whether you choose to hire an attorney or handle the registration process yourself. Generally speaking, the costs typically include the filing fee, initial report fee, and any other associated fees or expenses.

The filing fee is the upfront cost of submitting your LLC registration paperwork to the Arizona Corporation Commission. This fee is nonrefundable, even if your application is ultimately denied. The initial report fee, on the other hand, is an annual fee that must be paid within a specific period after the LLC is registered, typically within 90 days. Failure to pay this fee can result in penalties or other consequences.

Additionally, you should also consider any other associated fees or expenses that may arise during the registration process. For example, if you choose to hire an attorney or a registered agent to assist you with the registration, you will need to factor in their fees as well. These additional costs can add up quickly, so it’s important to have a clear understanding of all potential expenses before proceeding with the registration process.

It’s also worth noting that registering a foreign LLC in Arizona may require additional steps or documentation depending on the nature of your business. For example, if your LLC operates in a regulated industry or you have foreign owners or partners, you may need to provide additional documentation or obtain specific licenses or permits before your registration can be approved. These additional requirements can also add to the overall cost of registering a foreign LLC in Arizona.

While the costs associated with registering a foreign LLC in Arizona can add up quickly, it’s important to consider the benefits of doing so. Registering your LLC can provide legal protection for your business, help you establish credibility with customers and partners, and ensure that you are in compliance with state regulations. In the long run, these benefits can far outweigh the initial costs of registration.

In conclusion, registering a foreign LLC in Arizona can be a complex and costly process, but it’s an important step to take if you want to establish and grow your business in the state. By understanding the various fees and expenses associated with registration, you can better prepare yourself for the process and ensure that you comply with all necessary requirements.

In Conclusion

Starting a foreign LLC in Arizona does not require a lot of documentation or tasks. However, it is always good to seek help from a professional when it comes to running your business. Get a professional registered agent and form your foreign LLC anywhere without a hassle.

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