Minnesota 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 a Minnesota LLC, then starting 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 Minnesota.

Forming an Minnesota 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 Minnesota, you need to register it with the Minnesota Secretary of State.

Step 1: Choose Minnesota Foreign LLC Name

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

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

Step 2: Select Minnesota Foreign LLC Registered Agent

You’ll need a registered agent to form a foreign LLC in Minnesota and take note that a Minnesota 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 Minnesota Foreign LLC

Fill out and submit a Foreign LLC Application for Registration form via email to [email protected] or by mail to Minnesota Secretary of State – Business Services, Retirement Systems of Minnesota Building, 60 Empire Drive, Suite 100, St Paul, MN 55103..

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 Minnesota
  • Date when your LLC will start operations in Minnesota.
  • Credit card information on the last page of the form for the $150 application fee.

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

Step 4: Determine How Your Minnesota Foreign LLC is taxed

Foreign LLCs are also subjected to the Minnesota 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 Minnesota Foreign LLC Online

Time needed: 5 minutes

When you are registering for the foreign LLC in the State of Minnesota, you will have to submit your Application for Registration of foreign LLC with the Secretary of State which costs $205. After approval, you will receive a Verification Certificate from the State Office. The State offers offline as well as online filing options. We have explained the aspects you need to cover when you apply for Minnesota Foreign LLC.

  1. Go to the Official Michigan SOS website

    Visit the Online business filing system on the Secretary of State of Michigan website. The portal offers a one-stop solution to all business filings and information.

  2. Log in to your Account

    On the next page, a login page will appear. If you have an account with the Secretary of State office already, enter your login credentials such as user email and password and click “Login”. If you do not have an account, click on the “Create an Account” option available on the left side of the login box.

  3. Create an Account

    On the next page, create your account by entering the required details, such as Email and password. Clear the captcha and check the box agreeing to the terms and conditions. Next, click on the ‘Create Account’ tab.

  4. Check the Instructions

    After your account has been created on the website, continue to log in with your username and password. After signing in, under the heading of “File a New Business or Nonprofit”, select the option of “Limited Liability Company (Foreign)” on the user account page. Next, follow the guidelines and fill in all the required information.

  5. Review the information

    Before proceeding to submit your application, review the information to be accurate and correct.

  6. Attach Certificate of Good Standing or Existence

    You must attach the Certificate of Good Standing or Existence issued by proper authority in the State of Original Jurisdiction.

  7. Make the payment

    After you complete all the details and thoroughly review your application, proceed to make the payment of $205 for the filing fee of your LLC Application.

    You can also submit the application offline via mail. Download the Application Form PDF. Fill in the required details. Make the check or money order of $185 payable to the Secretary of State. Attach all the documents and you can file in-person or mail them to the following address: Minnesota Secretary of State – Business Services Retirement Systems of Minnesota Building 60 Empire Drive, Suite 100 St Paul, MN 55103

After Forming Minnesota Foreign LLC

Here are added things you need to accomplish after forming your Minnesota 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.

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 Minnesota.

F.A.Qs

What is a foreign LLC in Minnesota?

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

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 Minnesota 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 Minnesota

To register as a foreign LLC in Minnesota, you can file through mail by paying $185 or onlline with a filing fee of $205 to the Minnesota Secretary of State.

First and foremost, it is essential to consider the filing fees imposed by the state of Minnesota. These fees are typically set by the Secretary of State and can vary depending on the type and size of the LLC. While these fees may seem like an additional expense, they are a necessary part of the registration process and help cover the administrative costs associated with filing and processing the necessary paperwork.

In addition to the filing fees, it is important to consider any additional costs that may arise during the registration process. For example, some businesses may choose to hire a professional registered agent to help with the process. While this can add to the overall cost, it can also provide peace of mind knowing that a knowledgeable professional is handling the necessary paperwork and ensuring that everything is filed correctly and on time.

Another factor to consider is whether the foreign LLC will need to obtain a certificate of authority to do business in Minnesota. This requirement is often dependent on the nature of the business and can come with its own set of fees and costs. It is important to carefully review the state’s regulations and requirements to determine if this additional step is necessary and budget accordingly.

Finally, it is essential to keep in mind that the cost of registering a foreign LLC in Minnesota is not a one-time expense. There may be annual fees and renewal costs that need to be factored into the budget to ensure ongoing compliance with the state’s regulations.

While the cost of registering a foreign LLC in Minnesota can vary depending on a variety of factors, it is important for businesses to carefully consider these expenses and budget accordingly. By understanding the fees and costs associated with this process, businesses can ensure that they are fully prepared and equipped to successfully expand their operations into the state.

In conclusion, registering a foreign LLC in Minnesota is an important step for businesses looking to expand their operations. While the cost of this process can vary depending on several factors, it is essential for businesses to carefully consider these expenses and budget accordingly. By understanding the fees and costs associated with registering a foreign LLC in Minnesota, businesses can ensure that they are fully prepared and equipped to successfully navigate the registration process and comply with the state’s regulations.

In Conclusion

Starting a foreign LLC in Minnesota 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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