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How to Start a US Business as a Non-Resident: Complete Guide for International Entrepreneurs

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USA Corporate Services provides business formation filing services, not legal or tax advice. For guidance specific to your situation, consult an attorney or CPA. See full disclaimer

Starting a US Business as a Non-Resident: Key Facts

Factor Details
US Citizenship Required
No — non-residents can legally form LLCs and C-Corporations
Visa Required to Own
No — visa only required to work in the US on behalf of the business
Formation Time
1-5 business days (varies by state)
Typical Startup Cost
$200-$800 (state filing fees + registered agent + EIN)
Popular States
Delaware, Wyoming, Nevada
Entity Options
LLC or C-Corporation (S-Corporation not available to non-residents)
Bank Account
Required; in-person visit typically needed
EIN (Tax ID)
Required; obtained via IRS Form SS-4

Information current as of January 2026 | Sources: IRS, State Secretaries of State

TABLE OF CONTENTS

  1. Can Non-Residents Start a US Business?
  2. Step 1: Choose Your Entity Type
  3. Step 2: Select Your State of Formation
  4. Step 3: Appoint a Registered Agent
  5. Step 4: File Your Formation Documents
  6. Step 5: Obtain Your EIN (Tax ID Number)
  7. Step 6: Open a US Business Bank Account
  8. Step 7: Set Up Ongoing Compliance
  9. Additional Considerations: Visas and Taxes
  10. When to Consult an Attorney, CPA, or Immigration Specialist
  11. Frequently Asked Questions
  12. Get Started with Your US Company

1. Can Non-Residents Start a US Business?

Yes, non-US residents can legally form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or C-Corporation in any US state without citizenship, residency, or a visa. There are no federal or state laws requiring US citizenship or residency to own a US business entity (IRS Publication 3402).

The United States welcomes international investment and entrepreneurship. Non-residents have formed hundreds of thousands of US companies to access American markets, banking infrastructure, and business credibility.

The complete process involves seven steps:

  1. Choose your entity type (LLC or C-Corporation)
  2. Select your state of formation
  3. Appoint a registered agent
  4. File your formation documents
  5. Obtain your EIN (Tax ID Number)
  6. Open a US business bank account
  7. Set up ongoing compliance

Non-residents face additional steps compared to US residents, particularly for obtaining an EIN and opening bank accounts. However, the formation process is straightforward when you understand the requirements. This guide walks you through each step with all the information you need to make informed decisions.

USA Corporate Services has helped thousands of international entrepreneurs navigate the US formation process, handling document preparation and filing while you focus on your business strategy.

2. STEP 1: Choose Your Entity Type

Timeline: Decision should be made before filing | Cost: N/A (impacts filing fees and taxes)

Non-residents can form either an LLC or C-Corporation. S-Corporation status is not available to non-resident aliens per IRS regulations, as S-Corp shareholders must be US citizens or residents.

Your entity type affects liability protection, tax treatment, management structure, and ability to raise investment. This decision has long-term implications for your business.

Option A: Limited Liability Company (LLC)

An LLC provides personal liability protection while offering flexibility in management and taxation.

LLC characteristics for non-residents:

Factor Details
Liability Protection
Members’ personal assets protected from business debts
Default Taxation
“Pass-through” — profits taxed at member level, not corporate level
Management
Member-managed or manager-managed (your choice)
Formalities
Minimal annual meeting and record-keeping requirements
Ownership
No restrictions on foreign ownership
Investment
Less familiar to venture capitalists; may require conversion for major funding

Best for non-residents who:

  • Operate smaller or medium-sized businesses
  • Hold US real estate investments
  • Want operational flexibility
  • Prefer simpler compliance requirements
  • Do not plan to raise venture capital

Option B: C-Corporation

A C-Corporation is a separate legal entity with more formal structure and different tax treatment.

C-Corporation characteristics for non-residents:

Factor Details
Liability Protection
Shareholders’ personal assets protected from business debts
Taxation
Corporate-level tax (21% federal rate) plus shareholder dividend tax
Management
Board of Directors and Officers required
Formalities
Annual meetings, minutes, and formal record-keeping required
Ownership
No restrictions on foreign ownership
Investment
Standard structure for venture capital; required for IPO path

Best for non-residents who:

  • Plan to raise venture capital or angel investment
  • Want to issue stock options to employees
  • Are preparing for eventual acquisition or public offering
  • Have multiple investors or complex ownership structures
  • Need the credibility of a corporate structure for large contracts

Entity Type Comparison Summary

Factor LLC C-Corporation
Formation Cost
Lower (see state fees in Step 2)
Slightly higher
Tax Structure
Pass-through (single level)
Double taxation (corporate + dividend)
Management Flexibility
High
Formal structure required
Investor Readiness
May require conversion
Preferred by VCs
Annual Compliance
Simpler
More extensive
S-Corp Election
Not available to non-residents
Not available to non-residents

Important: Entity type significantly affects your US tax obligations. For advice on which structure best fits your business goals and tax situation, consult a CPA or tax attorney before making your decision. See When to Consult a Professional.

3. Step 2: Select Your State of Formation

Timeline: Decision should be made before filing | Cost: Varies by state (see comparison below)

Non-residents can form a company in any US state, regardless of where the business operates. You do not need a physical presence in the state of formation.

Delaware, Wyoming, and Nevada are the most popular states for non-resident formations due to favorable business laws, privacy protections, and established legal precedents.

Delaware

Delaware has been the preferred incorporation state for US businesses for over a century. More than 60% of Fortune 500 companies are incorporated in Delaware (Delaware Division of Corporations).

Delaware formation details:

Factor Details
LLC Filing Fee
$90 (Delaware Division of Corporations, 2026)
Corporation Filing Fee
$89 minimum
Annual Franchise Tax
$300 minimum for LLCs; varies for corporations based on shares
Processing Time
24 hours for online filings (standard); same-day expedited available
Privacy
Manager/member names not required on public filings (LLCs)
Legal System
Dedicated Court of Chancery for business disputes; extensive case law

Why choose Delaware:

  • Most established business law in the US
  • Investors and attorneys are familiar with Delaware entities
  • Efficient and predictable legal system for business matters
  • Best choice if you plan to raise institutional investment

Wyoming

Wyoming offers strong privacy protections and low ongoing costs, making it popular among non-residents seeking anonymity and cost efficiency.

Wyoming formation details:

Factor Details
LLC Filing Fee
$100 (Wyoming Secretary of State, 2026)
Corporation Filing Fee
$100
Annual Report Fee
$60 minimum (based on assets in Wyoming)
Processing Time
1-2 business days
Privacy
No public disclosure of LLC members; strongest privacy protections
State Income Tax
None
Asset Protection
Strong charging order protections for single-member LLCs

Why choose Wyoming:

  • Lowest total ongoing costs for most small businesses
  • Strongest privacy protections of any state
  • No state income tax on business earnings
  • First state to authorize LLCs; established LLC law
  • Best choice for privacy-focused small to medium businesses

Nevada

Nevada offers no state corporate income tax and strong privacy, though it has higher annual fees than Wyoming.

Nevada formation details:

Factor Details
LLC Filing Fee
$75 (Nevada Secretary of State, 2026)
Corporation Filing Fee
$75
Annual Fee
$350 business license fee (all entities)
Processing Time
2-3 business days; expedited available
Privacy
Officers/directors on public record; members/managers are not
State Income Tax
None

Why choose Nevada:

  • No state income tax
  • Strong privacy protections
  • Established business-friendly reputation
  • Geographic proximity to West Coast markets

State Comparison Summary

Factor Delaware Wyoming Nevada
LLC Filing Fee
$90
$100
$75
Annual Fees (LLC)
$300
$60
$350
Processing Time
24 hours
1-2 days
2-3 days
Privacy Level
High
Highest
High
State Income Tax
8.7% (if operating in DE)
None
None
Best For
Raising investment
Low cost + privacy
No state tax + recognition

Which State Should You Choose?

Choose Delaware if:

  • You plan to raise venture capital or angel investment
  • You want the most established business law precedents
  • Investors or partners specifically request Delaware

Choose Wyoming if:

  • You prioritize low ongoing costs
  • You want the strongest privacy protections available
  • You operate a small to medium business without institutional investors

Choose Nevada if:

  • You want no state income tax and name recognition
  • Your business has connections to the western US
  • You want a balance of privacy and brand familiarity

For guidance on which state best fits your tax situation or legal needs, consult a CPA or attorney familiar with international business structures. See When to Consult a Professional.

USA Corporate Services can form your company in any state and provide registered agent services in all 50 states.

4. Step 3: Appoint a Registered Agent

Timeline: Required before filing | Cost: $100-$300/year (included in most formation packages)

Every US business entity must have a registered agent with a physical street address in the state of formation. The registered agent receives legal documents and official correspondence on behalf of your company during business hours (Model Business Corporation Act, Section 5.01).

Registered Agent Requirements

Requirement Details
Physical Address
Must be a street address in the formation state (P.O. boxes not accepted)
Availability
Must be available during normal business hours (typically 9 AM – 5 PM)
Function
Receives service of process, state correspondence, tax notices
Public Record
Registered agent name and address appear on public filings

Why Non-Residents Need a Professional Registered Agent

Non-residents typically cannot serve as their own registered agent because:

  • You likely do not have a physical address in your formation state
  • You may not be available during US business hours
  • Missing important legal documents can result in default judgments or loss of good standing

A professional registered agent service satisfies all state requirements and ensures you never miss important legal notices or compliance deadlines.

USA Corporate Services Registered Agent Services

USA Corporate Services provides registered agent services in all 50 states. Our registered agent service includes:

  • Physical address in your formation state for official filings
  • Same-day scanning and forwarding of all received documents
  • Compliance reminders for annual reports and renewals
  • Included in our formation packages or available standalone

5. Step 4: File Your Formation Documents

Timeline: 1-5 business days (varies by state) | Cost: State filing fee (see Step 2)

With your entity type, state, and registered agent selected, you’re ready to file your formation documents with the state.

Documents Required by Entity Type

For LLCs: Articles of Organization (some states call this Certificate of Formation or Certificate of Organization)

For Corporations: Articles of Incorporation (some states call this Certificate of Incorporation)

Information Typically Required

Information LLC Corporation
Company name
✓
✓
Registered agent name and address
✓
✓
Principal office address
✓
✓
Organizer/Incorporator name
✓
✓
Management structure
✓ (member or manager-managed)
—
Number of authorized shares
—
✓
Initial directors
—
✓ (some states)
Business purpose
Sometimes
Sometimes

Company Name Requirements

Your company name must:

  • Be distinguishable from existing registered businesses in your state
  • Include the appropriate designator (LLC, L.L.C., Limited Liability Company, Inc., Corporation, Corp., etc.)
  • Not include restricted words (bank, insurance, etc.) without proper licensing

USA Corporate Services verifies name availability as part of our formation service and can suggest alternatives if your preferred name is taken.

Filing Methods and Processing Times

State Online Filing Processing Time Expedited Available
Delaware
Yes
24 hours (standard)
Same-day ($100), 2-hour ($500)
Wyoming
Yes
1-2 business days
Same-day available
Nevada
Yes
2-3 business days
24-hour ($125), same-day ($500)

What You Receive After Filing

Once the state approves your filing, you receive:

  • Filed and stamped formation document (Articles of Organization or Incorporation)
  • Certificate of Formation/Incorporation (in some states)
  • Filing receipt with entity number

This documentation proves your business legally exists and is required for your EIN application and bank account opening.

USA Corporate Services Formation Service

USA Corporate Services handles the complete filing process:

  • Prepares your formation documents
  • Verifies name availability
  • Submits filing to the state
  • Tracks processing and resolves any state rejections
  • Delivers your approved formation documents

6. Step 5: Obtain Your EIN (Tax ID Number)

Timeline: 1 business day (by phone) | Cost: Free (IRS does not charge for EIN)

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a federal tax identification number for your business. It functions like a Social Security Number for your company and is required to open a bank account, hire employees, and file tax returns.

Why Non-Residents Must Apply Differently

US residents can obtain an EIN instantly online through the IRS website. However, the online application requires a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), which most non-residents do not have.

Non-residents without an SSN or ITIN must apply using one of these methods:

  • Phone: Call the IRS directly
  • Fax: Submit Form SS-4 by fax
  • Mail: Submit Form SS-4 by postal mail

EIN Application Methods for Non-Residents

Method Timeline Recommended For
Phone
1 business day
Fastest option — recommended
Fax
4-5 business days
Alternative if phone unsuccessful
Mail
4-6 weeks
Slowest — not recommended

How to Apply by Phone (Recommended)

IRS EIN Phone Line for International Applicants: +1-267-941-1099 (not toll-free)

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Eastern Time

Before calling, have ready:

  • Completed IRS Form SS-4 (for reference — you’ll provide information verbally)
  • Your approved formation documents with entity number
  • Name, title, and contact information of the “responsible party”
  • Business address (can use registered agent address)
  • Expected number of employees (enter 0 if none)

During the call:

  1. The IRS agent will ask questions from Form SS-4
  2. Verify your company name and formation state
  3. Provide responsible party information (this is typically the business owner)
  4. Answer questions about business activities

After the call:

  • The agent will issue your EIN verbally
  • Write down the EIN immediately
  • The IRS will mail written confirmation (Form CP 575) to your US address within 4-6 weeks
  • You can use the EIN immediately for banking and business purposes

IRS Form SS-4 Reference

Even when applying by phone, complete Form SS-4 first for reference:

Key fields for non-residents:

  • Line 1: Legal name of entity (exactly as filed with state)
  • Line 3: Executor, administrator, trustee, “care of” name (can be your registered agent)
  • Line 4a-b: Mailing address (use registered agent or US business address)
  • Line 7a-b: Responsible party name and SSN/ITIN (enter “Foreign” if no SSN/ITIN)
  • Line 10: Reason for applying (check “Started new business”)
  • Line 12: First date wages paid (enter N/A if no employees)
  • Line 16: Principal activity (describe your business)

Download Form SS-4: IRS Form SS-4

USA Corporate Services EIN Service

USA Corporate Services offers EIN application assistance for non-residents. We:

  • Prepare your Form SS-4 with accurate information
  • Guide you through the phone application process
  • Coordinate timing with your formation and banking steps
  • Ensure your EIN documentation is complete for banking

7. Step 6: Open a US Business Bank Account

Timeline: 1-4 weeks (includes travel planning if required) | Cost: Varies by bank

A US business bank account is essential for receiving payments, paying expenses, and establishing business credibility. Most non-residents must visit a US bank branch in person to open an account.

Why In-Person Banking is Typically Required

Most US banks require identity verification that cannot be completed remotely for non-residents. Banks must comply with Know Your Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations, which typically require in-person document verification for non-US persons.

Some banks have recently introduced remote options for certain non-residents — see “Digital Banking Alternatives” below.

What You Need to Bring to the Bank

Required documents:

Document Purpose
Passport
Identity verification
Second form of ID
Additional verification (driver’s license from home country, national ID)
EIN confirmation
Tax identification
Formation documents
Proof of business existence
Operating Agreement (LLC) or Bylaws (Corp)
Proof of ownership and authority
Proof of US business address
Address verification (registered agent letter acceptable)

Additional items some banks request:

  • Business plan or description of business activities
  • Projected revenue and transaction volumes
  • Source of funds documentation
  • Personal bank statements from home country
  • Proof of residential address in home country

Bank Selection for Non-Resident

Not all banks accept non-resident business accounts. Banks with established procedures for non-residents include:

National banks with non-resident experience:

  • Bank of America
  • Chase
  • Wells Fargo
  • Citibank

Recommended approach:

  1. Call the bank’s business banking line before visiting
  2. Confirm they open accounts for non-residents
  3. Ask what documents are required
  4. Schedule an appointment at a branch (walk-ins may be turned away)
  5. Bring all documentation to your appointment

Digital Banking Alternatives

Some fintech banks now offer remote account opening for non-residents with US LLCs or corporations:

Provider Account Type In-Person Required Notes
Mercury
Business checking
No (for some countries)
Popular with startups; limited to certain nationalities
Relay
Business checking
No (for some countries)
Designed for small businesses
Wise Business
Multi-currency
No
Not a full bank account; limited US banking features

Important: Digital banking options change frequently. Verify current eligibility and features before relying on remote options. Some businesses need a traditional bank for payment processing, credit facilities, or larger transactions.

Tips for a Successful Bank Visit

  1. Make an appointment — Don’t arrive unannounced
  2. Bring extra documentation — More is better than less
  3. Be prepared to explain your business — Banks will ask about your business model
  4. Ask about fees — Monthly fees, wire fees, and minimum balance requirements vary
  5. Request business debit card and online banking — Ensure you can operate remotely after opening
  6. Get banker’s direct contact — Helpful for future questions

If You’re Denied an Account

Bank account denials happen. If denied:

  • Ask why (banks may not give specific reasons)
  • Try a different bank or branch
  • Ensure your documentation is complete
  • Consider using a service that assists with bank account opening

USA Corporate Services can provide guidance on banking options and documentation requirements for non-residents.

8. Step 7: Set Up Ongoing Compliance

Timeline: Ongoing | Cost: Varies by state (see below)

Your US company has ongoing compliance requirements that must be maintained to keep your business in good standing. Falling out of compliance can result in penalties, loss of liability protection, or administrative dissolution.

Annual Report Requirements

Most states require an annual or biennial report to confirm your business information is current.

State Requirement Due Date Fee
Delaware
Annual Franchise Tax
March 1
$300 minimum (LLCs)
Wyoming
Annual Report
Anniversary of formation
$60 minimum
Nevada
Annual List
Anniversary of formation
$150 + $350 business license

Missing your annual report deadline can result in late fees ($50-$200) and eventually administrative dissolution of your company.

Registered Agent Maintenance

You must maintain a registered agent continuously. If you change registered agents

  • File a change of registered agent form with the state
  • There is typically a small filing fee ($10-$50)
  • Ensure no gap in coverage

USA Corporate Services provides registered agent service with automatic renewals and compliance reminders.

Tax Filing Obligations

Your US company will have federal and possibly state tax filing requirements:

Federal taxes:

LLCs: File Form 1065 (partnership) or Form 1120 (if electing corporate taxation)
C-Corporations: File Form 1120 annually
Both may require Form 5472 for foreign-owned entities

State taxes:

Vary by state and may include franchise tax, income tax, or gross receipts tax
Some states require filing even if you have no income in that state

Important: US tax obligations for non-residents are complex. Work with a CPA experienced in international taxation. See When to Consult a Professional.

USA Corporate Services Compliance Services

USA Corporate Services offers ongoing compliance services:

  • Annual report filing and tracking
  • Registered agent service with compliance reminders
  • State fee payment processing
  • Good standing certificate requests

9. Additional Considerations: Visas and Taxes

While not part of the formation process itself, visa and tax considerations are important for non-residents planning US business activities.

US Visa Considerations

Important distinction: Owning a US company does not require a visa. Working in the US on behalf of your company does require appropriate work authorization.

Ownership vs. Work:

Activity Visa Required?
Owning a US LLC or Corporation
No
Receiving dividends or distributions
No
Managing your company remotely from abroad
No
Attending business meetings in the US (B-1 visa)
Yes — B-1 visitor visa
Working in the US for your company
Yes — work visa required

Missing your annual report deadline can result in late fees ($50-$200) and eventually administrative dissolution of your company.

Visa Options for Business Owners

Visa Type Purpose Investment Required Duration
B-1
Business meetings, negotiations, conferences
None
Up to 6 months per visit
E-2 Treaty Investor
Active business management
“Substantial” (typically $100,000+)
2 years, renewable
L-1 Intracompany Transfer
Transferring from foreign office to US office
Existing foreign business
1-3 years, renewable
EB-5 Immigrant Investor
Permanent residence (green card)
$1,050,000 or $800,000 in TEA
Permanent
O-1 Extraordinary Ability
Individuals with extraordinary achievement
None
3 years, renewable

For advice on visa eligibility and applications, consult an immigration attorney. Visa law is complex and outside USA Corporate Services’s services.

Tax Considerations for Non-Residents

US tax obligations for non-resident business owners depend on your entity type, business activities, and tax treaty status between the US and your home country.

General tax framework:

Entity Type Federal Tax Treatment
LLC (default)
Pass-through; taxed on Effectively Connected Income (ECI)
C-Corporation
21% corporate tax on US-source income; withholding on dividends

Key concepts:

  • Effectively Connected Income (ECI): Income from business activities conducted in the US
  • FDAP Income: Fixed, Determinable, Annual, Periodical income (dividends, interest, royalties)
  • Tax Treaties: May reduce or eliminate certain US taxes for residents of treaty countries

Required forms for foreign-owned entities:

  • Form 5472: Information return for 25% foreign-owned US corporations and LLCs
  • Penalties for non-filing: $25,000 per form

Important: International taxation is complex and mistakes are costly. Work with a CPA experienced in non-resident taxation before conducting business or filing returns. See When to Consult a Professional.

10. When to Consult an Attorney, CPA, or Immigration Specialist

USA Corporate Services provides business formation filing services. For the following matters, we recommend consulting qualified professionals:

Consult an Attorney If:

  • You have partners or investors and need operating agreement or shareholder agreement drafting
  • You’re concerned about personal liability protection strategies
  • Your business involves regulated industries (healthcare, finance, legal services)
  • You have intellectual property to protect (trademarks, patents, copyrights)
  • You need contracts drafted or reviewed
  • You’re involved in a business dispute

How to find a business attorney:

  • American Bar Association Lawyer Referral
  • Request recommendations from USA Corporate Services

Consult a CPA or Tax Professional If:

  • You need advice on which entity type is best for your tax situation
  • You want to understand the tax implications of your business structure
  • You have questions about US tax treaties and your home country
  • You need help with Form 5472 or other international tax filings
  • You’re uncertain about state tax obligations
  • You want to plan for tax-efficient profit distribution

How to find an international tax CPA:

  • Look for CPAs with experience in “inbound international tax”
  • Request recommendations from USA Corporate Services

Consult an Immigration Attorney If:

  • You want to work in the US on behalf of your company
  • You’re considering E-2, L-1, EB-5, or other business-related visas
  • You’re uncertain about what activities require work authorization
  • You’ve had previous visa denials or immigration issues

How to find an immigration attorney:

  • American Immigration Lawyers Association
  • Request recommendations from USA Corporate Services

USA Corporate Services Can Help With:

✓ Filing your formation documents correctly
✓ Serving as your registered agent
✓ Filing annual reports and maintaining compliance
✓ Providing general information about formation requirements
✓ EIN application assistance
✓ Referrals to attorneys and CPAs in your area

11. Frequently Asked Questions

Can a non-resident start a business in the USA?

Yes, non-US residents can legally form an LLC or C-Corporation in any US state without citizenship, residency, or a visa. There are no federal or state laws prohibiting foreign ownership of US business entities. The formation process requires a registered agent in your state of formation, an EIN from the IRS, and a US business bank account.

Do I need a visa to own a US company?

No, you do not need a visa to own a US company or receive distributions from it. A visa is only required if you want to work in the United States on behalf of your business. Many non-residents manage their US companies remotely without ever obtaining a US visa. If you plan to work in the US, consult an immigration attorney about E-2, L-1, or other business visa options.

How much does it cost to start a US business as a non-resident?

Total startup costs for non-residents typically range from $200 to $800, including state filing fees ($75-$100), registered agent service ($100-$300 annually), and EIN application (free). Delaware LLCs cost $90 plus $300 annual franchise tax. Wyoming LLCs cost $100 plus $60 annual report. Additional costs may include formation service fees, operating agreement preparation, and professional consultations.

How long does it take to form a US company as a non-resident?

State formation typically takes 1-5 business days depending on the state. Delaware processes filings within 24 hours. After formation, obtaining an EIN typically takes 1 business day by phone. Opening a bank account requires scheduling and attending an in-person appointment in most cases. Total time from start to operational company with bank account: typically 2-4 weeks.

Can non-residents form an S-Corporation?

No, S-Corporation status is not available to non-resident aliens. The IRS requires all S-Corporation shareholders to be US citizens or permanent residents. Non-residents can form an LLC or C-Corporation but cannot elect S-Corp tax status. If S-Corp taxation is important to your strategy, consult a tax professional about alternative structures.

Do I need a US address to form a company?

You need a registered agent with a physical street address in your state of formation. You do not need to personally have a US address. A professional registered agent service satisfies this requirement, and their address will appear on public filings as your official registered address.

What’s the best state for non-residents to form a company?

The best state depends on your specific situation. Delaware is preferred if you plan to raise investment capital due to established business law. Wyoming offers the lowest ongoing costs and strongest privacy protections. Nevada provides no state income tax and strong privacy. Most non-residents choose one of these three states rather than their state of operation.

How do I get an EIN without a Social Security Number?

Non-residents without a Social Security Number must apply for an EIN by phone, fax, or mail rather than online. The fastest method is calling the IRS directly at +1-267-941-1099 (not toll-free), Monday-Friday, 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Eastern Time. Have your formation documents and completed Form SS-4 ready. You’ll receive your EIN during the call.

What taxes do non-resident business owners pay?

Tax obligations depend on your entity type, business activities, and tax treaty status. C-Corporations pay 21% federal corporate tax on US-source income. LLC owners are taxed on Effectively Connected Income from US business activities. Most states also impose annual fees or franchise taxes. Foreign-owned entities must file Form 5472 annually. Consult an international tax CPA for advice specific to your situation.

Can I open a US bank account remotely as a non-resident?

Most traditional US banks require non-residents to visit a branch in person to open a business account. However, some digital banks (Mercury, Relay) now offer remote account opening for certain nationalities. Availability changes frequently. Even with digital options, many businesses eventually need a traditional bank account for credit facilities or payment processing. Plan for an in-person visit if possible.


Important Disclaimer

USA Corporate Services provides business formation document filing services and related administrative support. We are not a law firm and do not provide legal advice. We are not a CPA firm and do not provide tax advice.

The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, immigration, or financial advice. Costs, requirements, and processing times are subject to change; verify current information with the appropriate government agencies before filing.

For advice about which entity type is right for your situation, liability protection strategies, tax implications, or visa eligibility, please consult a qualified attorney, CPA, or immigration specialist.

This information does not constitute:

  • Legal advice or attorney-client relationship
  • Tax advice or CPA-client relationship
  • Immigration advice
  • A recommendation for any particular business structure

If you need a referral to a legal, tax, or immigration professional, contact us and we can provide recommendations.