Top LLC Services for Non-U.S. Residents

Last updated on 14 Jan 2025

LLC Formation Services

Top LLC Services for Non-U.S.

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LLC Services Comparison

TOP RATED

4.9

Best for Personalized Support

Visit Northwest Registered Agent

Northwest Registered Agent

✓ $39 + state filing fees
✓ Dedicated account manager
✓ Includes registered agent service
✓ EIN and operating agreement included
✓ Compliance tools and notifications

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Comprehensive

★★★★★ (4.8)

ZenBusiness- (LLC for U.S. citizens)

✓ $49 + state filing fees
✓ Registered agent service for the first year
✓ EIN and operating agreement preparation
✓ Excellent customer service
✓ Compliance reminders to keep your business in good standing

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Affordable

★★★★ (4.3)

LegalZoom

✓ $79 + state filing fees
✓ Includes lawyer consultations
✓ EIN and operating agreement included
✓ Registered agent service and ongoing compliance monitoring

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★★★★ (4.7)

MyCorporation

✓ $89 + state filing fees
✓ LLC formation with a range of additional services
✓ Dedicated customer support
✓ Offers tax and legal consultation

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★★★★★ (4.8)

Bizee

✓ Free LLC formation (you only pay the state filing fees)
✓ Free registered agent service for the first year
✓ Lifetime company alerts to keep you informed about your LLC status
✓ Fast processing times

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★★★★★ (4.8)

Stripe Atlas

✓ One-time fee of $500
✓ LLC formation, U.S. bank account, and Stripe payment processing setup
✓ Includes an EIN, U.S. address, and Stripe payment integration
✓ Access to Stripe’s global payment system, making it ideal for online businesses

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FAQs Section

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a non-U.S. resident form a U.S. LLC?

Yes, non-U.S. residents can form a U.S. LLC without being physically present in the United States. Many LLC formation services cater specifically to international entrepreneurs and assist in setting up a business remotely, including providing services like EIN registration, registered agent services, and a U.S. business address.

What is an EIN, and do I need one to start a U.S. LLC?

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a unique identification number issued by the U.S. IRS for tax purposes. You will need one to open a U.S. bank account, hire employees, and file taxes. Most LLC formation services will help you get an EIN as part of their package.

Do I need a U.S. address to form an LLC?

Yes, your LLC needs to have a U.S. address where legal and tax correspondence is directed. In most states, you will be required to appoint a registered agent with a physical street address within the state of incorporation. Many LLC formation services, such as Northwest Registered Agent and ZenBusiness, offer this service.

What is a registered agent, and why do I need one?

A registered agent is an individual or entity that is designated to receive service of process on behalf of your LLC. It is a legal requirement for LLCs in the U.S., and a registered agent must have a physical address in the state of formation. Many LLC formation services, including Incfile and ZenBusiness, offer this as part of their packages.

Can I open a U.S. bank account if I am not a U.S. resident?

Yes, you can open a U.S. business bank account even as a non-U.S. resident. International entrepreneurs use services like Stripe Atlas to establish a U.S. bank account as part of the LLC formation process. However, you will have to provide identification documents, including a passport and proof of address, to open the account.

Do I need to physically be in the U.S. to form an LLC?

No, you can form an LLC from outside of the United States. All can be done with LLC formation services online and, after completing all your documents, have them sent over to you; however, it is necessary to establish a U.S. address so that the LLC can go through formation when using a registered agent.

What state is most advisable for creating my LLC?

Many international business owners opt for Delaware or Wyoming as they allow business-friendly legislations and offer lower ongoing annual maintenance fees, but again this will be on your discretion depending on which state is preferred for your LLC in terms of requirements. Other people opt to domicile in the same state in which they conduct their operations— for example, a California domicile in case of Californian operations.

Benefits of Starting a Limited Liability Company

Opening a Limited Liability Company allows small business owners a flexible yet secure business model. An LLC balances the straightforward partnership with legal advantages of incorporation: your personal resources are safe in case there arise any company-based debts or liability. Businesspersons could, on the other hand, become individually liable in cases where company activities go wrong when there is no such protection of an LLC.

An LLC also affords flexibility in operations, where you can choose to manage your business as a member-managed LLC or a manager-managed LLC. This choice brings flexibility based on the structure best suited for your company. Even after several years, if necessary, you may convert your LLC into a corporation to suit your business changes.

Why Use an Online LLC Formation Service?

The online LLC formation service simplifies the process of opening your business. They make it easier to create your LLC by handling all the paperwork and filings involved in getting your business licenses, ensuring state compliance, and providing professional registered agent services—all at an affordable price.

You avoid the anxiety of trying to handle complicated legal requirements by yourself when you utilize an online service. The best services also provide top-notch support through chat and guarantee that you are meeting all your state-specific needs. If you're looking for a rush process, then services like TailorBrands can get your LLC up and running quickly and add on extra services such as getting a U.S. business address and opening a U.S. bank account.

The Simple 3-Step Process to Start Your LLC

Getting your LLC up and running is easy when you use a professional online service. Here's a quick breakdown of the three key steps involved:

Select your LLC name and business address – Choose a name that reflects your brand and provide a valid address.
Designate a registered agent – A registered agent is required to receive legal notices on behalf of your LLC.
Make the payment – Pay for the formation service and state fees, and add optional add-ons like an Operating Agreement or expedited filing.

Why Delaware is One of the Most Popular LLC Forms

Delaware is highly reputed for its pro-business environment as huge corporations look for a place to register. These and other such state-specific benefits include out-of-state income without tax burden, low costs on filing, and a particular business-oriented court that deals exclusively with business legal concerns. So often, when these entrepreneurs, firms, and corporates do finally decide upon incorporating, the default choice is Delaware.

However, if you do not intend to conduct business in Delaware, you should factor in the extra expenses of a registered agent and annual fees. Delaware charges an annual fee of $300 for LLCs and a state filing fee of $100. These extra costs may not be worth it for businesses that are not located in the state.

Domestic vs. Foreign LLC: What's the Difference?

A Domestic LLC is a domestic LLC in the state you primarily live and operate your business. This option is typically the most common for entrepreneurs since it is the cheapest.

On the other hand, a Foreign LLC applies when you form your LLC in one state but plan to do business in another. For example, if your LLC is registered in Wyoming but you operate in California, you will need to register as a foreign LLC in California as well. Foreign LLCs usually cost more because they require additional state filings and may require you to appoint a registered agent in multiple states.

The Main LLC and Business Services That You May Require

Do You Need a Registered Agent?

In most states, having a registered agent is a legal requirement. A registered agent receives important legal documents on behalf of your LLC and ensures that your company remains in compliance. Using a professional registered agent service helps keep your personal information private, as the agent’s address is used in place of your own. Many online LLC services include registered agent services as part of their offerings.

Understanding the Beneficial Ownership Information Report (BOIR)

The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network requires U.S. businesses to file a report known as a Beneficial Ownership Information Report or BOIR. The report details important personal information of the owners and applicants of the company. Leading LLC services can guide you through the filing process for this new BOIR.

Business Licenses and Permits

Depending on the nature of your business and where it operates, you might need to get different licenses or permits. Business formation services will help you obtain the necessary licenses and ensure that you comply with federal, state, and local regulations. They can help you navigate this process across all 50 states, ensuring that your business is fully legal and compliant.