If your LLC is formed in another state but you want to do business in California, you’re required to register as a foreign LLC with the California Secretary of State. Whether you’re expanding your reach, opening an office, or hiring employees in California, this step is legally necessary.
In this guide, we’ll explain how to complete the California foreign LLC registration, how much it costs, and what to expect in 2025.
🌍 What Is a Foreign LLC?
A foreign LLC doesn’t mean it’s from another country — it simply means your LLC was formed in a different U.S. state.
For example:
- If your LLC was formed in Wyoming or Delaware, but you want to operate in California, you must register as a foreign LLC in California.
✅ When Do You Need to Register as a Foreign LLC in California?
You’re required to register if your out-of-state LLC is:
- Opening an office, branch, or store in California
- Hiring employees who live or work in California
- Holding regular in-person business meetings in the state
- Owning or leasing property in California
- Conducting significant business activities in the state
💡 If you’re unsure, it’s better to register — penalties for noncompliance can be steep.
📋 Steps to Register a Foreign LLC in California
1. Obtain a Certificate of Good Standing
You’ll need to get a Certificate of Good Standing (also called Certificate of Existence) from your home state (where the LLC was originally formed).
✅ This confirms your LLC is legally active and compliant.
🕒 Valid for 6 months.
2. File Form LLC-5: Application to Register
File Form LLC-5 with the California Secretary of State.
📄 Details you’ll need:
- LLC name (must match home state)
- Date & state of formation
- Registered agent in California
- Business address (mailing & physical)
📍 Where to File:
- Online: bizfileOnline.sos.ca.gov
- Mail or In-person: Secretary of State’s office
💵 Filing Fee: $70
3. Designate a Registered Agent in California
Your foreign LLC must appoint a California registered agent — either:
- An individual with a physical address in CA
- A professional registered agent service
They’ll receive legal documents on your behalf.
4. File Statement of Information (Form LLC-12)
Within 90 days of registering, file Form LLC-12 — California’s Statement of Information.
💵 Filing Fee: $20
🕒 Must be updated every 2 years
5. Pay the California Franchise Tax
All LLCs doing business in CA must pay the $800 annual franchise tax, regardless of revenue or profit.
📆 Due: Every year — first payment is due by the 15th day of the 4th month after registration.
Example: If you register in January, the tax is due by May 15.
6. File the BOI Report (Federal Requirement)
As of 2024, all LLCs must file a Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report with FinCEN.
📅 Due within 90 days of formation or registration.
💰 Summary of Costs for California Foreign LLC (2025)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| LLC-5 Application Filing Fee | $70 |
| Statement of Information (LLC-12) | $20 |
| Annual CA Franchise Tax | $800/year |
| Registered Agent (Optional) | $0–$125/year |
| BOI Report Filing | Free |
🔄 Ongoing Compliance for Foreign LLCs in CA
To stay compliant:
- File LLC-12 every 2 years
- Pay $800 franchise tax annually
- Maintain a registered agent
- Renew business licenses (if needed)
Failure to comply can result in penalties, suspension, or loss of good standing.
💼 Need Help Registering Your Foreign LLC in California?
At FormLLC, we simplify the process and handle all the paperwork for you.
✅ California foreign LLC registration
✅ Certificate of Good Standing assistance
✅ Registered Agent service in CA
✅ BOI filing + Statement of Information
✅ EIN (if needed) and ongoing support
📧 Email: contact@formllc.us
🌐 Website: www.formllc.us
📱 WhatsApp: +91 6202619173
🧠 Final Thoughts
Registering a foreign LLC in California is essential if you want to legally expand your business into one of the biggest markets in the U.S. Though it comes with extra steps and fees, the opportunity to grow and operate in California can make it well worth it.
Stay compliant, avoid penalties, and scale your business confidently — with FormLLC by your side.