A domestic LLC or corporation is a business that is formed within its home (domestic) state. Foreign qualification is when a legal entity conducts business in a state or jurisdiction other than the one in which it was originally formed. (It is not to be confused with being a business in a foreign country.)
The individual or legal entity that will accept service of process on behalf of the business entity is the registered agent. A business entity with an active Florida filing or registration may serve as a registered agent.
A foreign LLC is a limited liability company that's been formed in one state or jurisdiction and is doing business in another state or jurisdiction. It's also known as an out-of-state LLC or a non-resident LLC.
Similar to other states, the Florida Revised LLC Act (“Act”) requires that foreign or out-of-state LLCs seeking to transact business in Florida to register and acquire a certificate of authority prior to operating in the state through a process known as “foreign qualification.”
You can appoint an individual Florida resident to be your Florida registered agent (including yourself), or you can hire a commercial registered agent service to do it for you. Either way, your Florida registered agent must: maintain a physical address in Florida (not a PO Box or Florida virtual address);
Yes, the Florida Division of Corporations does allow an individual in an LLC to act as the Registered Agent for the business. But, it's an added responsibility on top of all the tasks a business owner has to carry out, so many entrepreneurs use a dedicated Registered Agent service instead.
There are only a few qualities necessary of a registered agent in Florida, Must be 18 years or older. Must have a physical address in Florida (it cannot be a P.O. box) Must always available during normal business hours to receive service of process in person.
A business entity with an active Florida filing or registration may serve as a registered agent. An entity cannot serve as its own registered agent. However, an individual or principal associated with the business may serve as the registered agent. The registered agent must have a physical street address in Florida.
How to Register Your Out-of-State Corporation in Florida Obtain a Certificate of Existence. Choose a Registered Agent. Complete the Application. Submit the Necessary Documents and Fees. File an Annual Report.