Register a Company in the USA Without Visiting: 12 Common Questions
Answers to the questions non-residents ask most about registering a US company remotely: legality, SSN, address, banking, taxes, timelines, costs and annual obligations.
We answer these questions every day on WhatsApp and email. Here they are in one place, with links to the detailed guides.
1. Is it legal for a foreigner to own a US company?
Yes. US states do not restrict company ownership by nationality or residency for ordinary businesses. A foreign individual or company can own 100% of a US LLC or corporation and manage it from abroad. Some regulated industries have special rules, but they are the exception. See can a foreigner own or manage a US LLC?
2. Do I need to visit the USA?
No. Formation, EIN, banking (with our packages), ITIN and annual taxes can all be handled remotely. See how to open a US company without visiting.
3. Do I need an SSN?
No. The company gets an EIN from the IRS without an SSN. An ITIN for the owner is optional for most people. See ITIN vs EIN vs SSN.
4. Do I need a US address?
Your company needs a registered agent address in its formation state, which we provide. Banks and platforms also expect a US business address, which we offer too. You personally do not need a US address. See registered agent explained.
5. Can I open a US bank account?
Yes, a US business bank account for your company, through our bank packages. Approval is at the bank's discretion, and a clear, consistent application matters most. See the bank account guide.
6. Which state should I choose?
It depends on your business. Wyoming suits most online businesses; Delaware suits startups raising investment; New Mexico and Arizona have the lowest ongoing costs; the state where you operate makes sense if you will have a physical presence. See which state should a non-resident choose.
7. LLC or Inc?
An LLC for most small businesses, freelancers and e-commerce sellers. A C-Corporation if you plan to raise venture capital or issue stock options. See LLC or Inc for non-residents.
8. How much does it cost?
With UCB, a Wyoming LLC with EIN and first-year registered agent costs $249 all-in; New Mexico or Arizona $199. Bank packages start at $198 plus state fee and registered agent. See how much a US LLC costs and our pricing.
9. How long does it take?
Usually a few days for the state filing, one to four weeks for the EIN, and a few weeks more for the bank account. See how long it takes.
10. Will I pay US tax?
It depends on where and how the business operates. A single-member LLC run entirely from abroad, with no US office, staff or agents, often has no US federal income tax to pay. Corporations pay 21% federal tax on profits. Your home country may also tax the profits. See effectively connected income.
11. Do I have to file anything every year?
Yes. A foreign-owned single-member LLC must file Form 5472 with a pro forma 1120 every year, even with no income, or face a $25,000 penalty. Most states also require an annual report or fee. See Form 5472 explained and annual requirements.
12. Can I use Stripe, PayPal and Amazon?
Yes, with a US company, EIN and US business bank account. Each platform runs its own verification. See Stripe for non-residents, PayPal Business and Amazon FBA.
Bonus: does owning a US company let me live or work in the USA?
No. Owning a company does not give you immigration status. Business visitors can attend meetings, but working in the USA requires the right visa. See US business visas for company owners.
Still have a question?
Our FAQ page has more answers, and our team is happy to help with your specific situation.
Ask us anything: WhatsApp +91 8105 199 399 or email info@ucbsolutions.com. We reply within one business day.
Let our experts handle it for you
Every business is different. Message us with your country, business type and goals, and we will recommend the right structure, state and package. We do the work; you focus on your business.
This article is general information for non-resident business owners and is not legal or tax advice. Rules and fees change; contact us to confirm what applies to your situation.
