Whether you are starting a business or incorporating an existing one in Virginia, you’ll want to understand state requirements for Virginia corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs).
Virginia Corporation Formation Requirements
Cost to incorporate. BizFilings clearly outlines our fees and the state fees to form a corporation in Virginia. View our pricing to plainly see:
- BizFilings’ package prices. BizFilings offers three incorporation service packages from which you can choose.
- State fee for standard turn-around. Our pricing clearly shows the state fee to incorporate in Virginia with standard turn-around.
- Expedited turn-around. You will see the BizFilings and state fee, if any, for expedited turn-around.
- 48-hour turn-around. There is a 48-hour filing option in Virginia, which is outlined in our pricing.
- Certified copy. Our pricing also clearly displays the BizFilings and state fee, if any, for issuing a Certified Copy of the Articles of Incorporation.
Corporate name. The name shall contain the word "Corporation," "Incorporated," "Company," "Limited," or an abbreviation thereof. A period must be used after any abbreviations used in the corporate name. The name cannot use words in parentheses. The name shall not contain any prohibited word or phrase implying it is organized for any purpose other than that stated in the Articles of Incorporation. The name may not be confusingly similar to that of any domestic or qualified foreign corporation.
Director information. The following are Virginia’s requirements for directors of corporations.
- Minimum number. Corporations must have one or more directors.
- Residence requirements. Virginia does not have a provision specifying where directors must reside.
- Age requirements. Virginia does not have age requirements.
- Inclusion in the Articles of Incorporation. Director names and addresses are required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Officers. Officer names and addresses are not required to be listed in the Articles of Incorporation.
Stock. Authorized shares and par value must be listed in the Articles of Incorporation. An increase in the number of shares or par value can affect initial filing fees.
Registered agent. Corporations must list the name and address of a registered agent with a physical address (no P.O. Boxes) in Virginia. The registered agent must be available during normal business hours to accept important legal and tax documents for the business.
Professional services businesses. Professional corporations (PCs) are allowed to be formed in Virginia for professional services businesses.