For those considering establishing a corporation in the Northern Mariana Islands (MP), understanding the standard creation and ongoing maintenance costs is essential. This overview details the typical expenses business owners can expect in 2025, based strictly on official and published figures.
Company Formation Costs in the Northern Mariana Islands (2025)
The average cost of setting up a standard domestic profit corporation—in US dollars—is straightforward and transparent, contributing to the jurisdiction’s reputation as a favorable location for corporate structuring.
| Expense Item | Rate (USD) |
|---|---|
| Articles of Incorporation filing fee | $250 |
| Business License Application fee | $50 |
| Average lawyer fees (preparation and filing) | $50 |
| Total Average Formation Cost | $350 |
These amounts reflect government fees together with a typical modest legal fee, if you choose to engage a lawyer for preparation and submission. There are no widely reported additional mandatory startup costs beyond those shown above.
Ongoing Annual Maintenance Costs
Maintenance expenses for a standard corporation in MP remain competitive, with most companies facing predictable annual charges. The principal recurring obligations are summarized below:
| Expense Item | Annual Rate (USD) |
|---|---|
| Annual Report filing fee | $100 |
| Business License Renewal fee | $25 |
| Registered Agent fee (if using a service) | $100 |
| Average annual lawyer/accountant fees (basic compliance) | $175 |
| Total Annual Maintenance Cost (Range) | $125 – $400 |
The variance in annual maintenance costs—ranging between $125 and $400—largely depends on whether outsourced compliance, registered agent services, or professional advisors are engaged. Solely statutory fees (annual report and license renewal) amount to $125.
Breakdown and Key Observations
- Formation: Government formation fees are $300. Modest lawyer fees may apply if legal assistance is desired, bringing the typical setup total to $350.
- Maintenance: The $125 statutory minimum covers official government reporting and license renewal filings. Fees for agents or professionals, if used, are in addition to this baseline.
- Service Providers: Use of a registered agent and ongoing legal or accounting support is optional, but common for companies not physically present in the jurisdiction.
Pro Tips for Company Cost Management in MP
- Review annually whether you need third-party registered agent or legal/accountant services; direct filings can minimize ongoing costs if your business model allows.
- Keep calendar reminders for annual report and license renewal deadlines to avoid late fees or administrative issues with the Commerce Division.
- Ensure all paperwork, payments, and renewals are addressed through the official Commerce Division to avoid unofficial or inflated service charges.
- Company formation can be handled independently, but many choose to consult a local attorney for peace of mind on compliance and filings—assess your own knowledge and risk appetite carefully.
Relevant Authority and Sources
All cost information in this overview is sourced from published guidance by the CNMI Division of Corporations and official entities. For comprehensive rules and up-to-date filings, always consult the official Commerce Division homepage.
In summary, establishing and operating a domestic corporation in the Northern Mariana Islands involves a clear, limited set of creation and annual fees, with additional costs only if you choose external legal or compliance support. The low average formation and maintenance expenses, transparent regulatory environment, and use of the US dollar position MP as a practical base for business operations. For those evaluating company setup, careful attention to statutory reporting and renewal requirements is essential to maintain good standing with authorities.