How to Start a U.S. LLC from Outside the United States

A modern, step-by-step guide for international founders who want to launch in the U.S. without expensive services or confusing paperwork.

Can non-U.S. residents start an LLC?

Yes—anyone can start a U.S. LLC. You don’t need to be a U.S. citizen, live in the U.S., or have a Social Security Number.

Many international founders form LLCs in the U.S. to:

  • Access payment platforms like Stripe, PayPal, and Wise
  • Build trust with U.S. customers
  • Limit personal liability
  • Open a U.S. bank account
  • Simplify global operations

You can do it yourself—if you know the steps.

What you’ll need

  • A unique business name
  • A U.S. state to file in (like Delaware or Wyoming)
  • A Registered Agent with a U.S. address
  • An EIN (Employer Identification Number)
  • A formation fee (varies by state)
  • An Operating Agreement (often required by banks)

Step 1: Choose your state

You can form your LLC in any U.S. state, but most international founders choose:

  • Delaware: Startup-friendly and well-known globally
  • Wyoming: Low filing fees, no income tax, privacy benefits
Start With Genie includes clear filing instructions for every U.S. state.

Step 2: Get a Registered Agent

You’ll need to list a Registered Agent with a physical U.S. address. This is required in all 50 states.

Your options:

  • Use a Registered Agent service (usually $100–$150/year)
  • Choose a provider that offers mail forwarding or address privacy
Genie explains how to choose a Registered Agent and where to list them in your formation forms.

Step 3: File your LLC

Once you’ve chosen your state and Registered Agent, you can file your LLC online through the state’s website.

Start With Genie gives you direct links, clear instructions, and a checklist for what to include—so you don’t miss anything.

Step 4: Apply for your EIN

You’ll need an EIN (Employer Identification Number) to open a bank account, use Stripe, and file taxes.

  • If you have a Social Security Number (SSN): You can apply online through the IRS
  • If you don’t have an SSN: You’ll apply by fax or mail using Form SS-4
Start With Genie includes a modern EIN guide that explains both options and helps you avoid common mistakes.

Step 5: Create an Operating Agreement

Most banks, payment processors, and partners will ask for a copy—even if your state doesn’t require it.

Start With Genie includes a clean, customizable Operating Agreement made for single-member LLCs.

Step 6: Open a U.S. bank account

You don’t need to visit the U.S. to open a business account. Many international founders use:

  • Mercury (remote-friendly banking for startups)
  • Wise Business (multi-currency support)
  • Payoneer, Revolut, or Stripe Atlas
Genie helps you gather the right documents to apply, including your EIN, Operating Agreement, and approval letter.

Do you owe U.S. taxes?

Not necessarily.

If you’re operating outside the U.S. and have no employees or U.S. income sources, you may not owe federal income tax—but you’ll still want to file properly.

Genie doesn’t give tax advice, but it helps you launch cleanly and understand where to go next.

How Start With Genie helps international founders

Start With Genie is a $49 assistant that gives you everything you need to launch a U.S. LLC—step-by-step, even if you’re outside the U.S.

State-specific filing instructions
A modern EIN guide that explains how to apply with or without an SSN
A single-member Operating Agreement
Instant access to the Genie Assistant for help
No upsells, no bundles, no pressure

Register Your LLC Today for $49

Cheaper, faster, and simpler than LegalZoom or ZenBusiness.

Full refund if it doesn't save you time and money.