Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Have questions about forming a US company as a non-resident? We’ve answered the most common queries below.
1. Can I open a US company if I’m not a US citizen or resident?
Yes, non-US residents can legally form a US company—most commonly an LLC or a Corporation. There is no requirement to be a US citizen or have a US address. However, you’ll need a registered agent with a US address, and it’s best to choose business-friendly states like Wyoming or Delaware.
2. Which state is best for non-residents to register a company in the US?
Wyoming is often considered the best for non-residents due to no state income tax, low annual fees, privacy protection, and ease of maintenance. Delaware is also popular for tech and startup companies due to its strong legal framework and investor-friendliness.
3. What type of company should I form — LLC or Corporation?
Most non-residents choose an LLC because it’s simpler to manage, has fewer compliance requirements, and allows for pass-through taxation. A Corporation (C-Corp) is suitable if you’re looking to raise investment from US-based investors or plan to go public eventually.
4. Do I need a US address to register a company?
No, you don’t need a personal US address. However, your company must have a Registered Agent with a US address (which we provide). This agent receives legal and government documents on behalf of your company.
5. Can I open a US business bank account from outside the US?
Yes, though it depends on the bank. Some banks require in-person verification, while fintech platforms and virtual banks (like Mercury, Relay, Wise) allow remote business bank account opening for non-residents with the right documentation (EIN, company documents, ID verification, etc.).
6. What is an EIN and do I need one?
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is like a Tax ID for your business, issued by the IRS. It’s required to open a bank account, file taxes, hire employees, or sell on platforms like Amazon. We help you apply for and get your EIN, even without an SSN.
7. Can I use my US company to sell on Amazon, Etsy, or other marketplaces?
Absolutely! You can register your US company as an Amazon or Etsy seller, use your EIN, and get a US bank account to receive payments. We also offer assistance with Amazon seller account approval for new sellers.
8. Do I need to file taxes in the US as a non-resident company owner?
Yes, your US company must file annual tax returns even if no income was generated. However, as a non-resident owner of a single-member LLC, you may not owe US taxes unless you have effectively connected income in the US. Still, filing is mandatory. We provide tax filing services to ensure full compliance.