Opening a U.S. company as a non-citizen might seem complex. However, hundreds of thousands international entrepreneurs now register U.S. companies remotely each year, aiming to tap into the world’s largest consumer market without relocating.
At Globalfy, we’ve seen firsthand how e-commerce founders, SaaS startups, and global service providers are setting up U.S. entities to access platforms like Stripe, Amazon, and Shopify.
The best part? Both US citizens and non-US citizens—including non-US residents and foreign nationals—can open a US company. While residents may have a more straightforward process, non-US residents and foreign nationals face additional steps.
Why open a U.S. company from outside the country?
For many international founders, registering a company in the U.S. opens doors that aren’t available in their home country. It’s not just about having a presence in the U.S.—it’s about removing barriers to growth. US residents may have a simpler process and different tax or legal considerations compared to non-US citizens, making it important to understand the distinctions before starting a US business.
Here’s why more global entrepreneurs are setting up U.S. entities in 2025:
– Access to major payment platforms – Services like Stripe, PayPal, and Shopify Payments often require a U.S. business entity, making incorporation a key step for SaaS and e-commerce brands.
– Build trust with U.S. customers – Having a U.S.-registered company boosts credibility, especially when selling on platforms like Amazon or Shopify.
– Simplify banking and transactions – A U.S. company allows you to open a U.S. business bank account, making it easier to manage international payments.
– Attract investors and partners – For tech startups, registering as a U.S. C Corp signals maturity and scalability, which appeals to investors.
– Legal protection – Forming a US business entity provides legal protection through organizational documents like bylaws or operating agreements, helping manage risk and ensure compliance.
– Operate globally, not locally – You can run your company from anywhere while legally transacting in the U.S.—no physical office needed.
Non-US citizens and foreign nationals can become business owners in the US, and participate as directors or board members of a US business without needing a visa for board meetings if they have proof of invitation.
These aren’t just perks—they’re strategic advantages for founders looking to grow beyond borders. How a business operates in the US depends on its legal structure, where it is incorporated, and compliance with US business laws and regulations.
The importance of choosing a business structure
Selecting the right business structure is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when forming a U.S. company as a non-citizen. The structure you choose will impact everything from your personal liability protection to your ability to raise funds and the way you pay taxes.
The most popular option for foreign entrepreneurs is the Limited Liability Company (LLC). An LLC offers personal liability protection, meaning your personal assets are generally shielded from business debts and lawsuits. This structure is also known for its flexibility in management and tax treatment, allowing business owners to choose how they want the company’s income to be taxed.
Another common choice is the C Corporation. C Corporations are favored by startups looking to raise funds from venture capital firms or angel investors, as they can issue multiple classes of stock and attract outside investment. However, C Corporations are subject to double taxation—once at the corporate level and again on dividends paid to shareholders. Despite this, the ability to scale and access venture capital makes the C Corporation structure appealing for high-growth businesses.
Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) are also available, offering liability protection to all partners and a flexible management structure. This can be a good fit for professional services or businesses with multiple owners.
Ultimately, the right business structure depends on your company’s goals, the level of liability protection you need, and your plans for growth. Consulting with a legal or business expert can help you determine which structure best aligns with your vision and provides the most benefits for your unique business.
Step-by-step: Starting a company in the U.S. as a foreign owner
Setting up a U.S. company from abroad doesn’t require a physical visit, a local partner, or even a visa. But it does require careful planning and the right documents. Here’s how the process typically works:
- Choose your business structure: Decide between an LLC or a C Corporation based on your goals (we break this down in the next section). Note that corporate taxes and federal taxes vary by state and business structure, so consider these factors when choosing where to register.
- Select the right state for registration: Some states offer better tax benefits, privacy protections, or lower fees. Delaware, Wyoming, and Florida are popular among foreign founders.
- Get a U.S. business address: You’ll need a physical U.S. address to register. This must be a real, physical location in the state of formation for compliance purposes. If you don’t have one, a virtual address service can meet this requirement legally.
- Register your business with the state: File the necessary formation documents (like Articles of Organization or Incorporation) with the state’s secretary (Secretary of State) in the state you’ve chosen. You must also appoint a registered agent with a physical address in the state; many founders use a registered agent service to fulfill this requirement and ensure compliance.
If your business will operate physically in multiple states, you must foreign qualify by filing for foreign qualification in each additional state. This involves submitting documents like a Certificate of Authority and paying applicable fees to ensure legal compliance. - Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number): This is your company’s federal tax ID. It’s required for banking, hiring, and filing taxes.
- Open a US business bank account: This lets you receive payments in USD and integrate with Stripe, Amazon, and other platforms. When opening a US business bank account, be sure to understand each bank’s own fee structure, as fees and requirements can vary.
- Set up your preferred payment gateways: With your EIN and bank account ready, you can now apply for Stripe, PayPal, or other processors with fewer restrictions.
You also need to stay compliant with ongoing requirements: Even as a non-resident, you’ll have to file annual reports, pay state fees, and meet IRS obligations.
Important considerations when opening your U.S. company
There are some critical aspects that you need to bear in mind when launching your business in the United States. They play a decisice role in having a smooth experience.
State registration
After deciding on your business structure, the next step is to register your company with the appropriate state government. This process involves submitting key legal documents—such as articles of organization for an LLC or articles of incorporation for a C Corporation—to the state’s Secretary of State office. You’ll also need to appoint a registered agent, who is responsible for receiving official correspondence and legal notices on behalf of your company.
Each state has its own filing fees and specific requirements, so it’s important for business owners to review the rules in the state where they plan to register. Some states, like Delaware and Florida, are especially popular due to their business-friendly regulations and streamlined processes.
If your company plans to conduct business in multiple states, you may need to complete a process called “foreign qualification,” which allows your business entity to operate legally outside its state of formation.
Staying compliant with state registration requirements—including annual reports and maintaining a registered agent—ensures your company remains in good standing and avoids unnecessary penalties.
Local registration
In addition to state registration, many businesses must also complete local registration to operate legally within a specific city or county. This step often involves obtaining a business license, zoning permit, or other certifications from local agencies. Requirements can vary widely depending on your business location and the type of business activities you plan to conduct.
Business owners should check with local government websites or business agencies to determine which permits or licenses are necessary. Registering with the local tax authority is also essential, as it ensures you’re set up to pay any applicable local taxes and fees. By fulfilling these local requirements, you help your company avoid fines and ensure smooth operations within your chosen community.
Obtaining necessary identifications
Securing the proper identifications is a vital part of establishing your U.S. company. The most important is the Employer Identification Number (EIN), which you obtain from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). The EIN acts as your company’s federal tax ID and is required for filing taxes, opening a business bank account, and hiring employees.
Depending on your business activities and the state where you operate, you may also need a state tax ID number. Foreign business owners who do not have a Social Security number may need to apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to comply with certain tax laws or to conduct business in the U.S.
It’s important for business owners to research the identification requirements for both federal and state agencies to ensure full compliance. Having the correct identifications in place not only allows you to pay taxes and hire employees but also helps establish your company’s legitimacy in the eyes of partners, clients, and government authorities.
Opening a U.S. business bank account
Once your company is formed and your EIN is issued, the next key step is setting up a U.S. business bank account. A US business bank account is essential for compliance, building trust with US customers, and ensuring smooth financial operations. Both new and existing businesses need a US business bank account to operate effectively. This allows you to:
– Accept payments in USD
– Connect with platforms like Stripe, Shopify, or PayPal
– Separate business and personal finances
While some banks still require an in-person visit, digital banking platforms offer a fast, accessible alternative for international founders. That’s why Globalfy has partnered with leading financial platforms—Mercury, Lili, and Relay—to streamline your US business banking experience. When choosing a banking partner, it’s important to understand each bank’s own fee structure, as fee policies can vary and impact your business costs.
Open your bank account directly from Globalfy’s platform: Once your US company is registered through Globalfy, you’ll find direct integrations with Mercury and Lili inside your dashboard—allowing you to start your application without ever leaving our portal.
Exclusive perk with Mercury: After opening your business bank account with Mercury via Globalfy, you’re eligible to receive $250 cashback. To qualify, simply transfer a minimum of $10,000 into your Mercury account within the first 90 days
Note: All bank applications are subject to an independent approval process. Approval is not guaranteed and depends on each bank’s internal review of your business structure and documentation.
Managing your business bank account
Managing your company’s finances starts with opening a dedicated business bank account. A U.S. business bank account is essential for separating your business and personal finances, which is crucial for maintaining personal liability protection and ensuring clear financial records.
Most banks and commercial banking service providers will require you to present legal documents such as your articles of incorporation, EIN, and business license when opening a business account.
A well-managed business bank account allows you to pay taxes, process online payments, and access a range of commercial banking service offerings, including business loans and credit lines. Many business owners choose banks that provide robust online banking platforms, making it easy to manage transactions and monitor cash flow from anywhere in the world.
It’s important to keep your business bank account separate from your personal bank account to avoid commingling funds, which can jeopardize your liability protection. By choosing the right bank and managing your business accounts effectively, you set your company up for financial stability and long-term growth.
Key e-commerce advantages of opening your U.S. company
Forming your business in the United States can unlock growth in the digital sales space—if this exactly what you’re aiming at.
Using your U.S. company to sell online (Stripe, Amazon, Shopify)
For many international founders, establishing a new business in the U.S. is often required to access platforms like Stripe, Amazon, and Shopify, which may be off-limits or limited in their home country.
This process is especially relevant for foreign nationals and foreign residents, who must meet specific requirements depending on their status and the state in which they form their company.
Here’s how having a U.S. entity helps:
Stripe and PayPal
Platforms like Stripe require a U.S. business entity, EIN, and U.S. bank account to activate a full merchant account. Once you’ve registered your company and completed the basic documentation, setting up payment gateways becomes significantly easier.
Amazon and Shopify
A U.S. company also simplifies onboarding with ecommerce platforms.
– Amazon gives preference to U.S.-registered businesses when it comes to account verification and category approvals.
– Shopify Payments (powered by Stripe) is easier to activate when tied to a U.S. business and bank account.
Global Credibility
Having a U.S. entity not only opens doors technically—it also builds trust with customers, payment processors, and partners. A U.S.-based checkout experience often results in better conversion rates, especially when selling to American buyers.
Bottom line: Forming a U.S. company isn’t just paperwork—it’s a gateway to growing online with fewer limitations.
Compliance, Employer Identification Number, and Ongoing Responsibilities
Forming a U.S. company is just the start. To stay in good standing, here are the key responsibilities you’ll need to manage each year:
| Requirement | What You Need to Know |
|---|---|
| Annual Reports | Required by most states to update business info. Filing deadlines and fees vary. |
| Franchise Taxes / Fees | Some states charge annual taxes or flat fees, regardless of income. E.g., Delaware has franchise tax; Florida does not. |
| Federal Tax Filing | U.S. entities may need to file federal returns with the IRS, even if operated from abroad. Consult a tax advisor. Federal taxes differ from state and local corporate taxes, which vary by jurisdiction and business structure. |
| Registered Agent | Must maintain a registered agent in your state of formation to receive legal/tax notices. Can be a service provider. |
| Operating Agreement (LLC) | LLCs should have an operating agreement to outline management structure, compliance, and help maintain legal protection. |
Keeping up with these requirements ensures your company remains active and avoids late penalties or legal issues. Maintaining legal protection also requires ongoing compliance as a legal entity. Remember, both business profits and personal income may be subject to U.S. tax laws, so consider all federal, corporate, and personal tax obligations in your planning.
Conclusion
By now, you’ve seen what it really takes to open a U.S. company as a non-citizen, from picking between an LLC and a C Corp to defining the best state to form an LLC in the US—and even knowing what to do after your company is live.
You’re not just starting a business—you’re unlocking access to Stripe, global banking, and customers across borders. And you can do it all from wherever you are.
The path is clear. You know what documents you need, what mistakes to avoid, and how to stay compliant long-term. The only thing left? Take action, with the right partner in your corner.
Talk to our team and let’s help you get started the right way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you start a company in the U.S. as a non-citizen?
Yes, non-U.S. citizens can legally start a company in the United States. You don’t need to be a resident, hold a visa, or have a green card. You will, however, need a U.S. business address, an EIN (Employer Identification Number), and a registered agent in the state where you’re forming the business.
How much does it cost to register a company in the USA as a foreigner?
The total cost depends on the state and the type of business structure you choose. For example, forming an LLC in Florida typically costs around $125, while a C Corporation in Delaware starts at approximately $89. Additional expenses may include registered agent fees, EIN filing (if not handled directly), and ongoing annual maintenance costs. On average, most international founders spend between $300 and $800 for the initial setup.
Can I get a green card if I own a business in the USA?
Simply owning a U.S. business doesn’t automatically grant you a green card or residency. However, there are immigration pathways—such as the E-2 Investor Visa or EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program—that may apply if you invest a substantial amount and create jobs in the U.S. These routes involve specific criteria and legal review, so it’s best to consult an immigration attorney if that’s part of your long-term g