Can a Foreigner Form an LLC in Georgia?
Yes. Georgia permits foreign nationals and non-US residents to form and own LLCs. The state imposes no citizenship or residency requirements for organizers or members under O.C.G.A. §§ 14-11-204 to 14-11-206. A foreigner may organize an LLC alone or with others and serve as the sole member or manager.
Organizer Requirements
One or more organizers may form a Georgia LLC. An organizer need not be a Georgia resident or U.S. citizen. The Articles of Organization must list each organizer's name and address—foreign addresses are acceptable. A member, manager, or authorized attorney-in-fact may sign the filing.
Filing Process
File Articles of Organization with the Georgia Secretary of State, Corporations Division. The standard filing fee is $110. Online filing at https://ecorp.sos.ga.gov/Account typically processes in 7 business days. You'll need a valid email address for filing correspondence and the LLC's principal office mailing address (which may be outside Georgia).
Your LLC name must end in "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or "L.L.C." and be distinguishable from existing Georgia business names. Verify availability using the business search tool at https://ecorp.sos.ga.gov/BusinessSearch.
Registered Agent Requirement
Georgia requires a registered agent with a Georgia street address (not a P.O. box). A foreign organizer cannot serve as their own registered agent. You must appoint a Georgia resident or professional registered agent service to receive legal documents on behalf of the LLC.
Additional Steps
If conducting business under a name other than the LLC's legal name, file a DBA (Doing Business As) with the clerk of superior court in your county of operation.
Processing Options
- Standard: 7 business days ($110)
- Expedited: 2 business days ($120)
- Same-day: Before noon submission ($275)
- 1-hour: Paper filing ($1,200)
Contact Information
Georgia Secretary of State, Corporations Division Phone: (404) 656-2817 Website: https://sos.ga.gov/
This is general information, not legal advice.