THE AMERICAS
Company Formation in America
Forming a US company is the fastest route to the world's largest consumer market, USD invoicing and full access to Stripe, PayPal, Amazon and Shopify — without relocating or visiting the United States. Get the structure right (LLC or C-Corp), pick the right state (Delaware or Wyoming), secure your EIN and open a corporate bank account, and incorporation costs a few hundred dollars. This guide covers US company formation costs, required documents, tax obligations and the process step by step.
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Start Your Company in America with World Company Setup Support
For those wishing to set up a company in America, World Company Setup Support provides step-by-step guidance through the incorporation process. Our professional advisors can help you identify the most suitable setup options and take the necessary steps to suit the requirements of your business.
Forming a Company in the USA: The Complete 2026 Guide
With a population of more than 330 million, the world's largest e-commerce market and direct access to global payment infrastructure such as Stripe and PayPal, the United States is one of the most attractive destinations for international entrepreneurs. Best of all, forming an LLC in the US requires neither millions in capital nor a trip to America. At World Company Setup we register your US company for you with costs starting from $500, helping you choose the right state and the right structure together.
The biggest misconception among founders considering a US company is that the process is extremely complex and expensive. In reality, with the right state and the right structure you can register a US LLC entirely online for a few hundred dollars. The genuinely hard part is managing it correctly: which state to choose, your tax obligations, opening a bank account and integrating Stripe and PayPal.
Forming a US Company — Key Facts at a Glance (September 2026)
Why Set Up a Company in the USA?
The United States offers advantages that few other jurisdictions can match. A US company signals credibility to global customers and suppliers, unlocks access to the largest consumer base on the planet, and lets you invoice in US dollars through world-class payment processors. For software companies, e-commerce sellers, freelancers and agencies serving international clients, a US entity is often the single most effective way to scale.
- Direct access to the world's largest consumer and e-commerce market.
- The ability to collect payments in USD via Stripe, PayPal and Wise.
- Enhanced trust and credibility with international clients and partners.
- No requirement to travel to the US or reside there to own a company.
- Full foreign ownership — no local partner or sponsor is required.
- Flexible, business-friendly corporate law, especially in Delaware and Wyoming.
- A clear, well-documented path to raising venture capital when needed.
Cost of Forming a Company in the USA (2026)
Costs vary primarily by the state you choose. The table below summarises the typical filing fee, recurring annual fee and standout feature of the most popular states, based on figures current as of September 2026.
| State | Filing Fee | Annual Fee | Standout Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware | ~$110 | $400 (annual LLC tax) | Most popular; flexible law, investor-friendly |
| Wyoming | ~$100 | ~$60 | Lowest cost, strong privacy, no state income tax |
| Florida | ~$125 | ~$138 | No personal income tax; warm climate & large communities |
| Texas | ~$300 | Variable | No state income tax; fast-growing tech ecosystem |
| New Mexico | ~$50 | No annual report | Lowest start-up cost; privacy advantages |
Important note: The tables, rates and costs (amounts) on this page were compiled as of September 2026 and may change over time. State filing fees, franchise taxes and federal regulations can be updated by the relevant authorities. We recommend verifying the most current amounts and rates on the official websites of the relevant State Secretary of State offices and the IRS (irs.gov).
Beyond state fees, budget for a registered agent (typically $50–150 per year) and, if you use a professional service, a formation service fee. The EIN itself is free when obtained directly from the IRS.
US Company Types: LLC or C-Corp?
LLC — Limited Liability Company (the most common choice)
An LLC combines limited liability protection with pass-through taxation and minimal paperwork. It is the default choice for freelancers, e-commerce sellers, agencies and most small-to-medium businesses. A single-member LLC owned by a non-US person with no US-source income and no US presence often has straightforward federal obligations, though an informational filing may still be required.
C-Corporation (for those seeking investment)
A C-Corp is the preferred structure for startups planning to raise venture capital or issue stock options. It offers a familiar framework for investors but is subject to corporate income tax at the federal level, with potential double taxation on distributed profits.
S-Corporation (not suitable for non-residents)
An S-Corp offers pass-through taxation but is restricted to US citizens and residents. Foreign founders are therefore not eligible to elect S-Corp status.
Sole Proprietorship
A sole proprietorship offers no liability protection and is generally unsuitable for foreign founders operating internationally, so an LLC is almost always the better route.
Delaware or Wyoming? A State Selection Guide
Why Delaware is popular
Delaware is home to a highly developed body of corporate law and a specialised Court of Chancery. It is the jurisdiction most familiar to investors and is the default choice for venture-backed startups. A flat annual LLC tax of $400 applies, due by 1 June, with no annual report required.
September 2026 update: Delaware House Bill 400 took effect on 1 August 2026 and raised both taxes and filing fees. The annual tax on LLCs, LPs and general partnerships rose from $300 to $400, and the Certificate of Formation filing fee rose from $90 to $110. The annual tax is due by 1 June each year.
Why Wyoming is preferred
Wyoming offers among the lowest ongoing costs, no state income tax and strong privacy — the names of LLC members do not appear in public records. For remote digital entrepreneurs with no physical US presence, Wyoming is frequently the most cost-effective choice.
Florida and Texas
If you plan to relocate to the US or travel there often, Florida or Texas are worth considering. Neither levies a personal income tax, and Florida in particular is close to major international hubs such as Miami and Doral.
Documents Required to Form a US Company
The documents required to form a US LLC or C-Corp are surprisingly few:
- A passport copy for every owner and manager.
- A US address — a registered agent service satisfies this even without a physical presence.
- A proposed company name (which must be available in the state registry).
- A brief description of your business activity and model.
- Your preferred ownership split and management structure.
To prepare your documents correctly and speed up the process, you can request a free quote and consultation from our expert team.
What Is an EIN and How Do You Get One?
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is your company's federal tax ID, comparable to a tax number for the business. It is required to open a bank account, integrate payment processors and file taxes. The EIN is issued free of charge directly by the IRS. For foreign founders without a US Social Security Number, the application is submitted via Form SS-4 and can take roughly 4–8 weeks; we manage the filing and IRS communication on your behalf.
The US Company Formation Process: Step by Step
1. Choosing a state and company type
We begin by matching your business model to the optimal state and structure — for most clients this means an LLC in Wyoming or Delaware.
2. Name check and reservation
We confirm your chosen name is available in the state registry and reserve it where appropriate.
3. Appointing a registered agent
Every US LLC and C-Corp must have a registered agent with a physical address in the state of formation. If you do not live in the US, this service must be obtained from a professional provider, typically for $50–150 per year.
4. Preparing and filing formation documents
The Articles of Organization or Certificate of Incorporation, together with the Operating Agreement or Bylaws, are prepared and submitted to the state. Approval takes anywhere from 1–5 business days to 2–3 weeks; Delaware and Wyoming usually complete within 1–2 weeks.
5. Obtaining the EIN
After approval, we file Form SS-4 with the IRS. For foreign founders this can take 4–8 weeks, and we handle the correspondence to keep it moving.
6. Opening a bank account
Once the EIN is issued, we begin the corporate bank account process. Traditional US banks may require a physical presence, while digital banking platforms offer a fully online experience.
7. Stripe, PayPal and payment integrations
With your US company and bank account in place, we activate Stripe Business, PayPal Business and Wise Business accounts so you can collect USD and transfer funds more easily and at lower cost.
⏱ Total timeline: state registration 1–3 weeks, EIN 4–8 weeks, bank account 1–2 weeks. The entire process can be completed in 6 to 12 weeks.
Opening a US Corporate Bank Account
A US bank account is critical to making your company operational. Traditional banks and digital banking platforms each offer different advantages, and the right combination depends on your business model, transaction volume and payment needs. We help you select and open the accounts that fit your operations best.
References
Payment & E-Commerce Infrastructure: Stripe, PayPal, Amazon and Shopify
For many international entrepreneurs this is the real reason to form a US company — full access to global payment platforms. Several Stripe features are restricted or unavailable for companies based outside major markets, and a US LLC removes most of those barriers.
- Stripe: With a US company and an EIN you can open a standard Stripe account and use subscription management, Stripe Connect and advanced payment flows at full capacity.
- PayPal Business: A PayPal Business account opened with a US LLC is largely free of the withdrawal limits and restrictions common to accounts in many other countries.
- Amazon Seller Central: Opening a seller account with a US-registered company is far easier, with full access to Prime Seller status and FBA programmes.
- Shopify Payments: With a US company and bank account you can enable Shopify Payments and avoid third-party payment processors.
The US Tax System: What You Need to Know
US taxation operates at the federal, state and sometimes local level. A single-member LLC owned by a non-US person with no US-source income and no US presence often has limited federal tax exposure, but may still need to file informational returns such as Form 5472. C-Corporations are subject to federal corporate income tax. State income tax varies widely — states such as Wyoming, Florida, Texas and Nevada levy no personal income tax. The figures here are general and current as of September 2026; federal and state tax rules can change over time, so we recommend checking official sources such as the IRS (irs.gov) and the relevant state tax authority for current rates.
Can Forming a US Company Get You a Visa?
Forming a company does not by itself grant a visa; however, owning an active, registered US company supports several visa pathways, including investor and business categories. The right approach depends on your nationality, investment level and long-term plans, and should be assessed case by case.
2025–2026 Update: BOI Reporting Requirements
Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) reporting, introduced in 2024, requires certain companies to report their real owners to FinCEN (the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network). The rule was created to combat money laundering and tax evasion.
BOI reporting changed significantly during 2025–2026 through court decisions and regulatory updates. Under the rule FinCEN put into effect in March 2025, companies created in the United States (domestic companies) and their beneficial owners are exempt from BOI reporting; the obligation now applies chiefly to foreign reporting companies registered to do business in the US. Because the rules may change again, it is important to monitor current FinCEN guidance after forming your company — a process we track on your behalf.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Company Formation in America frequently asked questions.
Forming a US company does not by itself grant residency. Whether you can relocate depends on the visa category you qualify for and how actively you will run the business in the United States. Some routes, such as the E-2 treaty investor visa, let you live in the US while managing your company; others provide only limited work authorisation. Ownership itself requires no visa — you can own and operate a US company entirely from abroad.
A virtual office gives your business a US business address and mail handling without renting physical premises. Services typically include mail receipt and forwarding, a local phone number with call answering, and pay-as-you-go meeting room access. A virtual office is not the same as a registered agent address, which every US LLC and C-Corp must maintain in its state of formation.
The right visa depends on your nationality, your role in the business and the nature of your activity in the US. Common routes include the E-2 treaty investor visa for those investing in and actively managing a US business, the L-1 visa for transferring a manager or specialist from an existing company abroad, and the EB-5 immigrant investor visa for those seeking permanent residency. Remember that a visa is only needed if you want to live and work in the US — not to own the company.
Yes, when you set up a company in the US, you can open an account through payment processors like PayPal and Stripe. These platforms make it easy for businesses to receive and process payments.
Yes. US businesses can be taxed at federal, state and sometimes local level. A C-Corporation pays federal corporate income tax on its profits. An LLC is normally a pass-through entity, so profits are taxed in the owners’ hands rather than at company level, although foreign-owned single-member LLCs still have information filing obligations such as Form 5472. State treatment varies widely: Wyoming, Texas, Florida and Nevada levy no personal income tax, while Delaware charges LLCs a flat annual franchise tax. Sales tax is set state by state.
Formation itself is fast: most states approve LLC and C-Corp filings within 1–3 weeks, and Delaware and Wyoming usually within 1–2 weeks. The longer step is the EIN, which takes roughly 4–8 weeks for founders without a US Social Security Number, followed by 1–2 weeks to open a corporate bank account. Allow 6 to 12 weeks for the full process. Note that US companies are registered at state level — there is no federal company registry.
Yes. You do not need to physically travel to America to form an LLC or C-Corp. All documents are prepared online and filed electronically with the state authority. The EIN application and bank account process can also be completed remotely; when you work with us, you can manage the entire process from your home country.
Delaware is ideal for those who want to attract investors, create multiple share classes and work with large investors in the future. Wyoming, with its lower annual cost, strong privacy protection and absence of state income tax, is more advantageous for digital entrepreneurs and remote workers. If you will not physically live in the US, Wyoming is preferred in most cases.
Yes. Single-member LLCs generally file Form 1040 Schedule C, or Form 5472 together with Form 1120 for foreign founders. Multi-member LLCs file Form 1065. We track your annual returns and state reports on your behalf through our accounting partners.
Including the state filing fee, the registered agent fee (roughly $50–150 per year) and management of the EIN process, the total first-year cost typically ranges between $500 and $2,500. The exact amount varies by the state you choose and the service package; these figures are current as of September 2026, and we recommend requesting a quote for up-to-date pricing.
An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is a company's federal tax ID in the US and is required to open a bank account, file tax returns and use payment systems such as Stripe or PayPal. It is applied for via Form SS-4 with the IRS; for foreign founders residing outside the US this process usually takes 4-8 weeks. We prepare and track the application on your behalf.
CLIENT REVIEWS
What do our clients say about us?
Experiences shared by clients whose company formation and corporate processes we have managed across multiple jurisdictions.
“The World Company Setup team was a huge help in setting up my company in Estonia and provided excellent service. They guided me in detail at every step and helped us complete the bureaucratic procedures quickly and smoothly. Thanks to their professionalism and customer-focused approach, the whole process was far easier and more efficient. I would absolutely recommend them to anyone looking to set up a company in Estonia. (Translated from Turkish)”
“From start to finish they managed a difficult and demanding process perfectly. They have a very experienced team — congratulations. The right firm for setting up a company abroad and handling every step correctly. I definitely recommend them. (Translated from Turkish)”
“Throughout my company formation in Dubai — from the decision stage all the way to the post-setup accounting work — it meant a great deal to work with a team that inspired confidence at every stage and patiently guided me even when I asked the same questions more than once. I recommend them to everyone with complete peace of mind. (Translated from Turkish)”
“I would like to thank the entire team, and especially Mr Turgut and Ms Gülhan, for the care and attention they showed throughout our company formation process, which let us complete everything quickly and without a single problem. (Translated from Turkish)”
“The support was just excellent The support was just excellent. Wr had a complicated case. A Holding. Companies in different countries and through their wide network they could help us out and establish a company In Dubai. Thank you”
“I live in Malaysia. I live in Malaysia, and I worked with World Company Setup to establish a company and open a bank account in Dubai. The entire process was managed in a highly professional, fast, and transparent manner. I would like to thank the entire team that supported me throughout the process.”
“High Quality The operations proceeded as initially described, without any unexpected issues or surprises.”