Business Registration Manual

Register a Foreign Business in North Carolina

Select Register a Foreign Business in North Carolina page.

On this page, you can begin registering your business by clicking Business Creation. For detailed instructions for business creation, please see page 2 of this manual.

The Register a Foreign Business page offers an overview of information and links for foreign business who wish to register their business in North Carolina. The content can be summarized in the section below.

Business Registration

Entities already registered in another state or country must qualify to conduct business in North Carolina by filing an Application for a Certificate of Authority. This Certificate is the legal authorization required for a foreign entity to conduct its affairs in the state. However, there are certain activities that are not considered “transacting business” and may qualify for exceptions.

Support for Entrepreneurs

The state offers resources for innovators, start-ups, and entrepreneurs through Rural RISE NC. This initiative provides easy access to professional resources such as funding sources, mentors, and business counselors. Many of these resources are available for free, and further information can be found on the Rural RISE NC website. Additionally, maintaining registration with the state involves statutory requirements to keep the company current and active on the Secretary of State’s records.