How to Open a US LLC as a Non-Resident: 8 Simple Steps

You don't need to be a US citizen. You don't need a green card. You don't even need a Social Security Number. As a non-resident, you can fully own and operate a US LLC — and FastLLC makes the process straightforward from start to finish.

Here's everything you need to know, step by step.

Why Start a US LLC?

The United States offers one of the most business-friendly environments in the world — low startup costs, a globally respected business address, and a flexible corporate structure that's easy to manage.

For non-residents in particular, the LLC structure offers a powerful advantage: it's a pass-through entity, meaning business income passes directly to the owners without being taxed at the company level — provided your LLC is 100% owned by non-US tax residents, has no US-based operations or employees, and generates no income "effectively connected" to US trade or business.

Other key benefits include:

• Personal liability protection — your personal assets stay separate from business debts

• Flexible management — no board requirements or complex governance

• Enhanced credibility — a US company builds trust with global customers and partners

• Owner privacy — certain states offer strong anonymity protections

LLC vs. C-Corp: Which Is Right for You?

For most non-resident founders, an LLC is the right starting point. It's easier to form, simpler to maintain, and offers tax flexibility.

If you plan to raise US venture capital or eventually take your company public, a C-Corporation is the standard structure that US investors require. But for online businesses, e-commerce, consulting, and service businesses — an LLC is the clear choice.

Which State Should You Form In?

For non-US residents, two states stand out:

Wyoming

Our top recommendation for most founders. Wyoming offers:

• Low annual fees ($62/year)

• Low filing fee ($100)

• A "nominee" option to keep your name off public records

• Simple, founder-friendly regulations

• The distinction of being the first US state to create the LLC structure

Delaware

The better choice if you plan to convert to a C-Corp to raise venture capital, or if the Delaware brand matters to your specific industry or investors. Note: annual franchise tax is $300 — significantly higher than Wyoming.

Bottom line: If you're running an online business, e-commerce store, or service company, go with Wyoming. It's the most popular choice among non-resident founders for good reason.

8 Steps to Open Your US LLC

Step 1: Form Your LLC

You have two options:

Use FastLLC — We handle everything: LLC formation, registered agent, US business address, EIN, and ongoing compliance. Most LLCs are formed within one week with an SSN, or approximately four weeks without one.

File directly with the state — You can file on your own through Wyoming or Delaware's state websites. You'll need to:

1. Choose and appoint a registered agent (required in every state, typically $25–$200/year)

2. Select a unique LLC name ending in "LLC" or "L.L.C."

3. Submit your formation documents and pay the state filing fee ($100 in Wyoming, $90 in Delaware)

Step 2: Get a US Mailing Address

Every LLC needs a US business address for official correspondence, bank applications, and professional credibility. Virtual mailbox services allow you to manage mail remotely. FastLLC includes a US mailing address as part of our formation packages.

Step 3: Obtain Your EIN (Employer Identification Number)

An EIN is your company's tax ID — required to open a US bank account and file taxes. The IRS issues EINs at no cost.

• With a US SSN: Apply online and receive your EIN within minutes

• Without a US SSN: Submit IRS Form SS-4 by fax — processing takes approximately 8–11 weeks

You do not need a Social Security Number to get an EIN. FastLLC manages this process on your behalf.

Quick reference — the three tax IDs explained:

• EIN — Employer Identification Number, assigned to your business

• SSN — Social Security Number, issued to US citizens and certain residents

• ITIN — Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, issued to foreign individuals with US tax filing requirements (most non-resident LLC owners do not need one)

Step 4: Get a US Phone Number

A US phone number is required to open a bank account, set up Stripe, and establish a professional presence. It's also used for account verification across most US business platforms.

We recommend OpenPhone, which lets you get a US number from anywhere in the world in minStep 5: Open a US Business Bank Account

Banking is one of the trickier parts of the process for non-residents — most traditional banks require an in-person visit or a US SSN. The two most founder-friendly options for non-residents are:

• Mercury — FDIC-insured, fully online setup, no SSN required

• Relay — Another strong option with solid business banking features

Both support non-US residents and can be set up remotely.

Step 6: Set Up Stripe for Payments

Stripe is the preferred payment processor for most non-resident LLC owners. To open a US Stripe account, you'll need:

• Your LLC formation documents

• An EIN

• A US business address

• A US phone number

• A government-issued ID from any country

Stripe does not require a US SSN — making it far more accessible than PayPal for most international founders.

Step 7: Understand PayPal's Requirements (If Needed)

PayPal requires a US SSN or ITIN in addition to an EIN and LLC documents. If you don't have either, PayPal is not currently an option. Most founders default to Stripe for this reason.

Step 8: File Your Taxes and Stay Compliant

Tax requirements depend on your LLC structure:

Single-Member Foreign-Owned LLC
If your LLC has no US-based operations or income, you generally do not owe US income tax. However, you are still required to file an informational return annually. Failure to file carries a minimum $25,000 penalty.

Required filings:

• Form 1120 (pro-forma)

• Form 5472 (foreign owner disclosure)

Deadline: April 15 each year (or request a 6-month extension)

Multi-Member LLC
Required filing:

• Form 1065 (partnership return)

Deadline: March 15 each year (or request a 6-month extension)

Annual state fees:

• Wyoming: $62/year

• Delaware: $300/year (franchise tax)

Both can be paid directly online to the respective state.