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If I have a foreign business, can I do business in the WA State and at the Port?

Yes, for foreign businesses, first ask what is your company’s business structure: sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation, or limited liability company (LLC)? If your entity was formed outside of Washington, filing a “Foreign Entity Registration” in Washington through the Office of the Secretary of State is typically a first step.
Registration is required for all contractors and many businesses specialty licenses and certifications. Talk with your legal advisor to understand the benefits, risks, and requirements.

Registration requires that you designate a “registered agent” in Washington, a Washington- based person or business with a physical address who is to receive your official business entity notifications.

Office of the Secretary of State – File as a Foreign Entity
Filings, Forms & Information | WA Secretary of State
12.2021---foreign-profit-registration-statement.pdf
Registered Agents | WA Secretary of State


Revised Code of Washington
RCW 23.95.510: Foreign registration statement. (wa.gov)
RCW 23.95.505: Registration to do business in this state. (wa.gov)
RCW 23.95.510: Foreign registration statement. (wa.gov)