In today’s global remote work culture, it may not matter where you live but it matters where your startup is registered. A startup is its own entity with its own personality. Being incorporated in one jurisdiction does not mean that the startup cannot do business in another. Foreign registrations are filed to satisfy compliance. Generally, “doing business” in a jurisdiction means that the company has a physical footprint and/or has employees in that jurisdiction. Once jurisdiction(s) of registration are determined, registered agents are needed in each one. There are a lot of options in terms of who can act as an agent as long as certain criteria are met.

Failure to register in foreign jurisdictions can lead to adverse consequences to the startup, usually in the form of monetary penalties, not being allowed to bring lawsuits in the jurisdictions courts, and/or personal liability for the company’s directors or officers with respect to certain matters. Government funding, taxes, franchise fees, filings, global markets, talent, resources, emotional connections, cultural relations can all influence a startup’s choice of registered offices. 

Contact us today for a consultation to seek clarity about global expansion of your business.