**【SKY REALTY LLC】Hawaii Real Estate Purchase Guide for Foreign Corporations – 2025 Edition**

When a foreign corporation purchases real estate in Hawaii under its company name and registers ownership, the process generally follows a practical structure. However, there are several legal and procedural requirements unique to international transactions. These include obtaining corporate registration certificates, preparing board resolutions, and completing U.S. notarization procedures.

SKY REALTY LLC has extensive experience supporting foreign corporations in Hawaii real estate transactions. We skillfully guide clients through the complexities of international procedures with expertise and a reliable network.

### Procedures Required for Corporate Purchases

When a foreign corporation acquires real estate in Hawaii under its company name, preparation must begin in its home country. Below is a detailed explanation of each required document and where to obtain it.

### Obtaining and Translating the Certificate of Corporate Registration

Acquire the certificate that verifies the company's establishment, directors, and headquarters from your country’s relevant government office. In Japan, for example, this would be the “Certificate of All Registered Matters” from the Legal Affairs Bureau.

A certified translation is not legally required in the U.S., but using a professional translator or legal expert is strongly recommended. Send the translated certificate to your legal representative in Hawaii via trackable international courier such as FedEx or EMS.

### Providing the English Company Name and Representative Information

The English version of the company name will be used in contracts and registration documents. Examples include:

- AAA Co., Ltd.
   
- Corporation AAA
   
- LLC AAA
   

Also provide the names of the representative director and relevant officers in Roman characters (matching their passports is ideal).

### Creating a Corporate Resolution

Prepare a “Corporate Resolution” in English that confirms the company has authorized the property purchase and contract execution. This document proves the legal authority of the corporate representative in the Hawaii real estate transaction.

A lawyer will provide a template; the representative signs it and returns it in PDF format. The original document is typically not required.

### Preparing the Certificate of Good Standing

If your entity is a Hawaii-registered corporation, you can easily obtain a “Certificate of Good Standing” online through the Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs (DCCA).

Visit the DCCA site ([https://hbe.ehawaii.gov/documents/search.html](https://hbe.ehawaii.gov/documents/search.html)), search by company name, and download the certificate for $7.50 in PDF format.

For foreign corporations, since there may be no direct equivalent of this certificate in your country, a combination of your corporate registration certificate and corporate resolution (both translated) may serve as alternatives. If needed, a separate letter confirming the company's continued existence and activity can be prepared by a local attorney.

### Escrow Setup and Title Registration

#### Role of the Escrow Company

The escrow company acts as a neutral third party, managing the entire post-contract process including holding funds, drafting and submitting the deed, and completing title registration.

#### Filling Out Escrow Opening Instructions

Provide:

- Company name and address
   
- Preferred form of ownership (typically Tenancy in Severalty)
   
- Type of title insurance (standard or extended)
   
- U.S. federal ID number (if applicable)
   
- Copy of the passport of the authorized signatory (sometimes all directors)
   

#### Documents Sent One Week Before Closing

Via FedEx, you’ll receive:

- Preliminary Title Report approval form
   
- Termite inspection report approval
   
- Settlement Statement
   
- FIRPTA/HARPTA tax documents
   
- Deed for execution
   

### Signing and Notarization

In your home country, documents may be notarized at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate (appointment required), or at a local notary office with an apostille attached, depending on the legal requirements.

Return the signed documents using FedEx. The escrow company usually includes a return label for convenience.

### Requirements for Rental Operations

If the purchased property will be used for rental purposes under the corporation’s name, additional registrations and licenses are required:

- **GET License (General Excise Tax)**  
   Apply online through the Hawaii Department of Taxation. $20 fee; takes about 7 business days.
   
- **TAT License (Transient Accommodations Tax)**  
   Required for rentals under 180 days. Can be applied for online together with GET.
   
- **DCCA Registration**  
   Submit Form FC-1 (corporation) or FLLC-1 (LLC) to register as a foreign business entity in Hawaii.
   
- **EIN (Employer Identification Number)**  
   Apply online through the IRS website. Typically takes 2–4 weeks.
   
### Opening a Corporate Bank Account

#### In-Person Interview Required

The corporate representative must meet in person with the bank in Hawaii and explain the business purpose and structure.

#### Required Documents

- DCCA registration certificate
   
- EIN confirmation letter
   
- Translated corporate registration certificate
   
- Valid passport
   

**Note:**  
Hawaii banks enforce strict screening to comply with tax and anti-money laundering regulations. Some may allow flexibility with DCCA or EIN requirements, but this is rare—always verify in advance.

### Full Support from SKY REALTY LLC

Owning real estate in Hawaii under a foreign corporation is completely achievable with proper legal understanding and documentation.

SKY REALTY LLC offers full-service support including:

- Assistance with document translation and preparation
   
- Introductions to bilingual attorneys, accountants, and notaries
   
- Accompaniment and guidance through bank and escrow procedures
   
- Support for FIRPTA/HARPTA withholding and refund claims
   

We are committed to ensuring a smooth and secure real estate purchase process for our international corporate clients.

For more information or assistance, please feel free to contact SKY REALTY LLC.

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