Register a Foreign Businessin North Carolina
An Entity Already registered in another state or country must qualify to conduct business in North Carolina by filing an Application for a Certificate of Authority.
A Certificate of Authority is the legal authorization which a foreign entity must obtain in order to be able to conduct its affairs in this state.
Exceptions
Activities Not Considered "Transacting Business" in North Carolina
An entity may not have to file an application for Certificate of Authority if they qualify for one or more exceptions for filing.
Requirements for Registration
If the entity does not qualify for an exception, the business entity must complete and submit one executed original application for a Certificate of Authority, specific to its entity type, to the NC Department of the Secretary of State Business Registration Division.
Get StartedPreparing and Submitting the Documents
Documents are submitted to the Secretary of State's Office electronically, by mail or courier, and at the Secretary of State's Office.
Get StartedWhat's Next?
North Carolina law may require the company to register with other agencies in North Carolina.
Get StartedMaintaining Registration
Each entity has statutory requirements in order to keep the company current and active on the records of the Secretary of State's Office
Get Started