US Company Formation with Bank Account for Non-Residents: The 2025 Guide
Table of Contents
- What is US Company Formation for Non-Residents?
- Why Form a US LLC as a Non-Resident?
- Best States: Delaware, Wyoming, Nevada Compared
- Step-by-Step LLC Formation for Non-Residents
- The LLC Formation Process
- Essential Documents
- US Bank Account for Non-Resident LLCs
- Costs and Fees Explained
- Benefits for Non-Residents
- Common Challenges & Pro Solutions
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is US Company Formation for Non-Residents?
US company formation with bank account for non-residents means you—without US citizenship or residency—can create a US-based limited liability company (LLC) and open a business bank account. This gives you access to US payment systems, global customers, and top platforms like Stripe, PayPal, and Amazon.
Why Form a US LLC as a Non-Resident?
Entrepreneurs, freelancers, and international sellers form US LLCs for:
- Global credibility & trust with US clients.
- Easy access to US payment and banking (Stripe, PayPal, Mercury, Wise).
- Simple compliance; LLCs are “pass-through” entities.
- Minimal legal restrictions: Non-residents can own 100% of a US LLC.
Popular Business Types
- Ecommerce stores
- Consulting firms
- Marketing agencies
- Investment vehicles
Best States: Delaware, Wyoming, Nevada Compared
These states are the favorites for non resident LLC US formation and banking:
|
State |
Filing Fee |
Annual Fee |
Income Tax |
Privacy |
Best For |
|
Delaware |
$90-$110 |
$300 |
None |
High |
Startups, investors |
|
Wyoming |
$100-$150 |
$60 |
None |
Highest |
Low cost, ecommerce |
|
Nevada |
$425+ |
$350+ |
None |
High |
Strong business laws |
Why these states?
- No state income tax and low annual fees.
- Online/remote registration for non-residents.
- High privacy; owners’ names not public in Wyoming/Delaware.
- Quick processing (1-3 business days typical).
Step-by-Step LLC Formation for Non-Residents
1. Choose Your State & Company Name
- Research the best state for your business (Delaware, Wyoming, Nevada).
- Check name availability on state SOS website.
2. Appoint a Registered Agent
- Mandatory for every LLC.
- The agent must have a physical address in the state.
3. File Articles of Organization
- Submit online or by mail; receive LLC certificate.
- Processing: 1-3 days in Delaware/Wyoming, 1-7 days in Nevada.
4. Draft LLC Operating Agreement
- Defines member roles and business rules (important for multi-member LLC).
5. Obtain EIN from IRS
- Required for banking, payments, taxes.
- Apply online or by mail with SS-4; You do NOT need a US Social Security Number.
6. Open US Bank Account
- In-person at US bank.
- Or remote with fintechs.
- Gather documents: LLC certificate, EIN, Operating Agreement, passport/ID, proof of address, business plan.
Essential Documents Checklist
- Articles of Organization
- Operating Agreement
- EIN letter (IRS)
- Passport + secondary ID
- Proof of non-US address
- Registered Agent contract
- Business plan, projected volumes
US Bank Account for Non-Resident LLCs
Opening a US company bank account for non residents can be done:
- In person: Visit a US branch.
- Remotely: Use fintechs—no need to visit the US.
Pro tips:
- Call banks ahead to confirm up-to-date requirements.
- Prepare all documents & schedule an appointment if traveling to the US.
- Online-only accounts suit ecommerce/remote business.
Costs and Fees Explained
|
Expense |
Typical Amount |
|
State Filing Fee |
$90–$150 (Delaware/Wyoming) |
|
Registered Agent |
$300–$400/year |
|
Annual LLC Fee |
$60 (Wyoming), $300 (Delaware), $350+ (Nevada) |
|
Operating Agreement |
Included/free |
|
EIN Application |
Free |
|
Bank Account Setup |
Free (fintechs) / Varies (banks) |
|
Professional Services |
$400–$900 |
Benefits for Non-Residents
- Easy remote formation: All steps online; no need to visit the US for Delaware/Wyoming.
- US payment gateways: Stripe, Amazon, PayPal, Shopify.
- Business credibility: US address/phone number.
- Low taxes & privacy: No state income tax (Wyoming, Nevada, Delaware).
- Global reach: Sell to US customers easily.
Common Challenges & Pro Solutions
Documentation rejections:
Solution: Hire a registered agent and use incorporation services to prepare paperwork.
Bank account setup:
Solution: Prefer fintech banks for remote setup, or travel for account opening at Wells Fargo/Chase.
Understanding local tax:
Solution: Engage a US tax pro familiar with non-resident LLC tax topics.
State choice confusion:
Solution: For pure ecommerce/online businesses, Wyoming is often best; for startups/VC, Delaware rules; Nevada for regulatory advantages.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I form a US LLC as a non-resident?
- Choose a state, appoint a registered agent, file Articles, get an EIN, open a bank account, and comply with any state-specific licensing.
Can non-residents open US bank accounts remotely?
- Yes! Mercury and Wise, plus Stripe Atlas onboarding, allow remote opening if you have a US LLC and EIN.
What state is best for non-resident LLC in 2025?
- Wyoming for low fees/privacy, Delaware for legal protections, Nevada for special business laws.
What are the ongoing costs for LLCs?
- Annual fees: $60 (Wyoming), $300 (Delaware), $350+ (Nevada); Registered agent $300–$400/year; tax returns if you operate in the US plus professional services fees.
Can I run an ecommerce store as a non-US resident LLC?
- Yes, and you can process payments through US banks or fintechs.
How fast is LLC formation for non-residents?
- Delaware: 1 day, Wyoming: up to 3 days, Nevada: up to 7 days.
Starting your US LLC as a non-resident is fast, affordable, and opens doors to American business benefits. Delaware, Wyoming, and Nevada are the best picks for privacy, pricing, and growth. With the right documents and professional support, you can have your us company formation with bank account completed in days—and our team is here to help you every step of the way.
Feel free to ask for more details or let us know if you wish to proceed. We are here to help!