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Foreign LLC

Foreign LLC Registration in Texas

If your LLC was formed outside of Texas and you plan to do business in the state, you must register it as a Foreign LLC in Texas. This is done by filing an Application for Registration of a Foreign Limited Liability Company (Form 304) with the Texas Secretary of State.

The state filing fee is $750, and online filings are typically processed within 2 business days. To avoid penalties or late fees, foreign LLCs must register within 90 days of beginning business activities in Texas.

What Is a Foreign LLC in Texas?

A “foreign LLC” does not mean an international business. It simply refers to an LLC that was formed in a U.S. state other than Texas.

For example, if your LLC was formed in California, Florida, or New York and you want to operate in Texas, you must register as a foreign Texas LLC before transacting business in the state.

Steps

to Register a Foreign LLC in Texas

You can handle the registration yourself—or let Cornerstone Registered Agents take care of the paperwork for you. Below is an overview of the process.

Check Entity Name Availability

Before filing, confirm that your LLC’s legal name is available in Texas. You can check availability by:

  • Using the Texas SOSDirect portal

  • Contacting the Texas Secretary of State

If your legal name is unavailable, you may operate under an assumed name (DBA) by filing an Assumed Name Certificate.

Designate a Texas Registered Agent

All Texas entities are required to appoint a registered agent with a physical Texas address.

As your registered agent, Cornerstone Registered Agents will:

  • Accept service of process and official state notices

  • Protect your privacy by listing our address on public filings

  • Provide secure mail handling and document notifications

  • Track compliance deadlines and send reminders

Our Foreign LLC package includes one full year of Texas registered agent service.

File the Texas Application for Registration

To complete your foreign LLC registration, you must file Form 304 with the Texas Secretary of State.

Required information includes:

  • LLC legal name

  • Federal EIN (if available)

  • State and date of original formation

  • Principal business address

  • Texas registered agent name and address

  • Member or manager information

Online filing is the fastest option. Mail and fax filings are also accepted.

Processing & Approval

Once submitted:

  • Online filings are typically approved within 2 business days

  • Mail filings may take 5–10 business days

If your filing is rejected, the Secretary of State will provide an explanation so corrections can be made.

Licenses, Taxes & Ongoing Compliance

After registration, your Texas foreign LLC may need to:

  • Obtain state or local business licenses

  • Register for a Texas Sales Tax Permit (if applicable)

  • File an annual Public Information Report

  • File a Texas Franchise Tax Report (if revenue exceeds state thresholds)

We provide reminders and optional filing services so nothing is missed.

Register Your Foreign LLC with Cornerstone

For $150 + state filing fees, we handle your Texas foreign LLC registration quickly and accurately.

What’s Included:

  • Same-day document preparation and submission

  • One year of Texas registered agent service

  • Professional Texas business address

  • Secure mail scanning and online document access

  • Compliance reminders and renewal support

  • Friendly, knowledgeable customer support

Foreign Texas LLC FAQ

If your LLC has an office, employees, storefront, warehouse, or ongoing operations in Texas, it is considered to be transacting business and must register as a foreign LLC.

Within 90 days of starting business activities in Texas to avoid late fees or penalties.

  • $750 state filing fee (mail, fax, or in-person)

  • Approximately $770 when filing online due to processing fees

Ready to Get Started?

Expanding your business into Texas is easier when you have a reliable local partner. Cornerstone Registered Agents provides the expertise, privacy protection, and compliance support you need—every step of the way.

Register Now
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