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Can I form a US Company for a non-resident of the United States and list business address as Japan?

Can I form a US Company for a non-resident of the United States and list business address as Japan?

Q: Do I need to register my out of state business in Washington state?

Yes, if your out-of-state business intends to conduct business in Washington, you must register as a foreign entity. This involves filing an application with the Secretary of State and designating a registered agent in Washington. Failing to register can result in fines and prevent you from enforcing contracts in the state.

Full question:

In filling out my Washington LLC initial report I'm writing my sole manager's address correctly as in Japan, as well as the place of operations as the same address in Japan. All monetary concerns will be purely online sales and go straight into a business account in Washington, hence registering the LLC in Washington. Will registering both the sole manager and place of operations outside of Washington state be cause for concern as to the legitimacy or legal stability of the LLC in the eyes of the Secretary of State?

Category: LLC
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Washington

Answer:

It should not. A business can be formed in the US for a non-resident but the registered agent must be a resident of the State where you form your LLC or Corporation. There are some States that may be easier to form your business than others.

For more details see the reference below.

https://www.usa-corporate.com/start-us-company-non-resident/

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Can you use a virtual address for an LLC in Washington state?

Yes, you can use a virtual address for your LLC in Washington state as your business address. However, you must also have a registered agent with a physical address in Washington. The registered agent is responsible for receiving legal documents on behalf of your LLC. Make sure the virtual address you choose complies with state requirements.

Do I need to register my business in another state?

If your business operates solely online and is registered in Washington, you typically do not need to register in another state. However, if you conduct business activities or have a physical presence in another state, you may need to register as a foreign entity there. Always check the specific requirements of the state where you plan to operate.

How do I register a foreign entity in Washington state?

To register a foreign entity in Washington state, you must submit an application to the Secretary of State. This includes providing information about your business, such as its name, principal office address, and a registered agent in Washington. You may also need to submit a certificate of good standing from your home state. Fees apply, so check the current rates on the Secretary of State's website.

How do I register an out of state business in Washington state?

To register an out-of-state business in Washington, you need to file an application for a certificate of authority with the Secretary of State. This requires providing details about your business, including its name, type, and the address of your registered agent in Washington. You may also need to submit a certificate of good standing from your home state and pay the associated fees.

Do I need to register my small business in Washington state?

Yes, if you plan to operate a small business in Washington, you must register it with the Secretary of State. This applies whether you're a sole proprietor, LLC, or corporation. Registration ensures your business is legally recognized and allows you to obtain necessary licenses and permits. Be sure to check local regulations as well.