Register a Foreign Corporation in Delaware

Free Guide to Registering a Foreign Corporation in Delaware

What does it cost to register a foreign corporation in Delaware?

It costs $245 to register your foreign corporation in Delaware. If you need to register right away, you can pay an extra $50 for 24-hour processing, or $100 for same-day service. No matter how you register, Delaware will mail your certificate back to you, which can take about a week.

How long does it take for the state to process the Delaware Certificate of Authority?

Delaware accepts applications online, by mail, or in person. State filing times depend on your method of filing.

• Online: Delaware typically processes online filings in 8-10 weeks.
• Mail and In Person: It generally takes Delaware 10 weeks to process mailed filings, plus you’ll need to add time for mailing.
• Expedited: If two months (or longer) is too long to wait for foreign registration, you can pay Delaware for expedited filing. Next day processing costs $50, same day is $100, and if you’re in a big hurry you can pay $500 for 2-hour service or $1,000 for 1-hour processing.

How will I get verification of qualification back from Delaware?

A Certificate of Qualification will be sent by mail alerting you that your corporation is cleared to do business in the state as a foreign entity.

What forms do I file with Delaware to qualify my out of State Corporation?

A cover letter with your name, address and phone/fax number is requested. The Foreign Corporation Certificate form and a Certificate of Good Standing is required.

What do I need from my home state?

A Certificate of Good Standing.

Will I need an Delaware registered agent for my corporation?

Yes, when you hire Northwest as your DE annual report reminders. It’s the same price every year, and there are no weird fees or cancellation fees.

You’ll also see all the pre-populated forms and specific filing instructions on the thank you page, in your online account, and they are emailed to you immediately upon signing up for 1 year of registered agent service.

Does the Delaware registered agent need to sign the filing?

No.

How can I file the Delaware Certificate of Authority?

By mail, fax or in person.

What is the state agency that accepts the out of state registration?

Delaware Division of Corporations
401 Federal Street, Suite 4
Dover, DE 19901
Phone: (302)739-3073
Fax: (302)739-3812

Do the signatures on the Delaware corporation application need to be original?

No.

Who has to sign the foreign corporation filing?

An authorized officer must sign the form.

Are there any weird things about registering in Delaware?

Foreign corporations in Delaware must disclose current assets and liabilities.

Is there ongoing Delaware annual report and/or initial reporting requirements?

Annual reports are due June 30th.

What are your fees?

You’ll need to have an Delaware registered agent. We charge $125 a year to act as your registered agent in Delaware. It’s a flat rate, once a year fee, and includes more than other registered agents. Here’s a little more about our registered agent service.

We charge a $100 one-time filing service fee if you would like us to obtain the certificates needed from your home state, and register your company in any state you choose. We have offices in every state and can act as your registered agent and make your filings for you in any state. If you would like to register with multiple states at once, we can usually drop our filing service fee down.

Additional DE Corporation Resources:

Delaware Taxes
Withdraw a Foreign Delaware Corporation
State by State Foreign Corporation Requirements