Can you registers a LLC if you're not in the US?
Is it possible for a foreign company to register a LLC in the US?
4 Answers
It's possible and it can be done in a number of ways:
You can file the papers yourself, or use an online service like http://incorporate.com/ or http://legalzoom.com. Their services start at around $500, I believe. Or you can hire an incorporation attorney to help you, but that will be significantly more expensive.
Either way you'll need a registered agent for legal purposes, in the state you form your LLC in. Some online incorporation services provide that for a year too.
You can incorporate in almost any state, but most people choose Delaware, Wyoming or Nevada as they are more business friendly (low taxes, less paperwork).
If you (or your company) needs a bank account in the US, you'll have to fly someone in the states to open it in person. Or if an US bank has a local branch in your area, they can probably help with that.
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Can i file the papers online or do I have to show up in person? – Sean Lin 14 years ago
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You can do everything online but the open the bank account. – Slav Ivanov 14 years ago
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Thanks man, I didn't know about this. But how can I open a bank account in the US if I'm not a permanent resident? – Jpartogi 14 years ago
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You can open an account if you are not permanent resident, it's just more complicated. Since September 11 and the US Patriot Act there is a "Know your customer" requirement for US financial institutions. When opening an account, the bank has to verify your identity, which is done to prevent identity theft and terrorist financing, I believe. Anyways, to do that you can either fly to the states and open an account in person, or arrange some sort of verification with a local branch of a US bank. You will need a corporate resolution and other documents, but you'll have to call the bank about that. – Slav Ivanov 14 years ago
Yes, LLC's may have owners that are foreign entities. However, Simply filing the Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State and paying the filing fee is not enough to protect you. To maintain LLC liability protection, you should become educated with the various legal requirements and compliance issues.
Yes - I have helped many overseas companies form LLCs or corporations in the U.S.
You may find "Can I form an LLC without a lawyer?" helpful.
Entities (LLC included) are registered at the state-level, not the federal-level. So it all depends on the state.
In my state, Ohio, I don't believe an LLC may be owned by a non-US person/entity.
