Register a Business in the United States as a Non-Resident

Register a Business in the United States as a Non-Resident

This page explains how non-U.S. residents can register a business in the United States, the administrative steps typically involved, and how administrative assistance may be used.

Can a Non-U.S. Resident Register a Business in the USA?

Non-U.S. residents are generally permitted to form and own U.S. companies. Citizenship or U.S. residency is not a general requirement for company ownership.

An overview of entity-specific considerations is available on: Registering an LLC as a non-resident and Registering a C-Corporation as a foreign founder.

Common U.S. Business Entity Types

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

LLCs are state-registered entities commonly used by both U.S. and non-U.S. founders. A detailed explanation is available here: LLC registration for non-residents.

C-Corporation

C-Corporations are separate legal entities with shareholders and directors. More detail is provided on: C-Corporation registration for foreign founders.

State-Level vs Federal Registration

U.S. companies are formed at the state level. Federal registrations, such as obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN), are separate.

See also: EIN for non-U.S. founders and U.S. company compliance requirements.

Choosing a U.S. State

The state of registration affects reporting requirements and ongoing obligations. Commonly used states include Colorado, Delaware, and Wyoming.

Registered Agent Requirement

Most states require companies to appoint a registered agent with a physical address in the state of formation.

A detailed explanation is provided here: What is a registered agent?

Ongoing Compliance After Registration

After formation, companies must maintain ongoing state and federal compliance.

See: Ongoing U.S. company compliance requirements.

HelvetiaForm’s Administrative Role

HelvetiaForm provides administrative assistance for the registration of U.S. companies and related compliance steps, based on client-provided information.

Information about HelvetiaForm’s Swiss base and operating principles is available here: Swiss-based administrative assistance provider.