Forming an LLC in the U.S. while living abroad? Smart move. Whether you’re starting a freelance brand, an eCommerce store, or a SaaS business, choosing the right U.S. state for your LLC can save you money, stress, and paperwork.
In this guide, you’ll discover:
- ✅ The best states for non-resident LLCs
- 🧾 What documents you need
- 🏦 How to open a U.S. business bank account
- 💡 Extra tips to stay compliant
✨ Why the State You Choose Matters
The United States has 50 different states—each with its own LLC laws, fees, privacy protections, and tax requirements.
That means your LLC experience will depend entirely on where you register.
Choosing the wrong state can mean:
- Higher annual fees
- More paperwork
- Complex taxes
Let’s avoid that.
🔝 Best States to Open an LLC for Non-Residents (2024)
| State | Why It’s Great | Annual Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Wyoming | No income tax, strong privacy, low renewal fees | $60 |
| Delaware | Business-friendly laws, no sales tax, fast approval | $300 |
| New Mexico | No annual reports, anonymous ownership allowed | $0 |
| Florida | Ideal for U.S.-based sales or eCommerce, faster processing | $138.75 |
➡️ Official IRS guidance for non-resident LLCs
📋 What You Need to Form an LLC from Outside the U.S.
You don’t need a visa or U.S. address, but you do need:
- A Registered Agent in the state you choose
- A U.S. mailing address (virtual address OK)
- Your passport or national ID
- An EIN from the IRS (free to apply online)
- A U.S. bank account (see below)
Want a service that handles it all for you? Check out:
🏦 Best U.S. Banks for Non-Resident LLCs
To get paid through Stripe, Amazon, PayPal, etc., you’ll need a U.S. business bank account.
These online banks allow you to open an account from anywhere:
- Mercury — Ideal for tech startups and eCommerce
- Relay — No monthly fees, great for freelancers
- Wise Business — Includes U.S. routing number & global currencies
🛡️ Do I Need to File Taxes?
Yes. Even if you live outside the U.S., your LLC must:
- File an annual tax return (Form 5472 + Form 1120 for single-member foreign-owned LLCs)
- Report any income from U.S. sources
- Pay taxes only on U.S.-based income
💡 Pro tip: Many non-resident founders use a tax advisor familiar with international LLCs.
🧠 Final Thoughts
If you’re a non-U.S. resident, the U.S. is one of the best countries to start a remote-friendly business—but choosing the right state is crucial.
Want help picking the best state, bank, or step-by-step launch plan for your situation?
Let me know—I’ll create a custom checklist or even walk you through the entire process.