Living in Dublin and running a small online store, I never imagined that one day I’d be the proud owner of a US-based LLC. But like many entrepreneurs, my journey into the American business world began with a simple need: expanding internationally while staying compliant and trusted.
Here’s how I, an Irish citizen, created a fully legal LLC in the United States—without ever setting foot in America.
Why a US LLC Made Sense for Me
Back in 2022, my e-commerce business selling handmade leather accessories was growing fast. While most of my customers were in the EU, I noticed a significant spike in interest from the US. However, I hit a roadblock: many US-based customers were hesitant to buy from a “foreign” website.
Also, I couldn’t use Stripe US or PayPal Business effectively as a non-US business. I needed a solution—and all research pointed to one answer: form a US LLC.
It would allow me to:
- Access reliable payment processors
- Appear as a local US business
- Protect myself legally
- Expand into Amazon US in the future
Choosing the Best State: Why I Picked Delaware
As an Irish citizen, I had no physical ties to any US state. So, I had to choose wisely based on:
- Cost
- Privacy
- Taxes
- Legal simplicity
After comparing Wyoming, New Mexico, and Florida, I chose Delaware for its longstanding reputation for business-friendly laws, especially for non-residents.
Filing the LLC cost about $90, and I paid a registered agent fee of $100/year.
Delaware also doesn’t require me to file a state income tax return, since I have no US-sourced income or office there.
Getting My EIN (Employer Identification Number)
To open a US bank account and apply for Stripe, I needed an EIN from the IRS. I completed Form SS-4 and faxed it to the IRS myself (from my local office store). It took about 4 weeks to receive it.
Note: You don’t need an SSN or ITIN to apply as a foreigner. Just leave those fields blank and include “foreign entity” in Section 9a.
Opening a US Business Bank Account from Ireland
Banking was the part I feared most—but it turned out to be easier than I expected.
I applied for a Mercury business account, which is designed for startups and non-residents. I submitted:
- LLC documents
- EIN letter
- My Irish passport
- Proof of my Irish address
The process was 100% online, and I was approved in 3 business days.
Mercury has no monthly fees, and it integrates beautifully with Stripe, PayPal, and Shopify.
Tax Responsibilities as an Irish Owner of a US LLC
Because I operate as a Single-Member LLC owned by a non-US person, I am classified as a “disregarded entity” for US tax purposes.
What this means:
- I file Form 5472 + pro forma 1120 each year with the IRS
- I don’t pay US federal income tax as long as my income is not “effectively connected” with a US trade or business
- I pay a $300 annual franchise tax to Delaware
I still report all income in Ireland and pay my Irish taxes. I also hired a cross-border tax accountant to make sure everything stays compliant.
The Real Benefits I’ve Gained
Here’s what I achieved after forming my US LLC:
- Access to Stripe US and PayPal Business
- Built credibility with American customers
- Seamless integration with Shopify and Etsy
- Separated my business from my personal life
- Laid the groundwork for US brand expansion
I even plan to apply for a US business credit card next year once I establish a credit history.
Final Thoughts: Would I Recommend It?
Absolutely.
If you’re based in Ireland—or anywhere outside the US—and serious about scaling your online business, starting a US LLC is one of the smartest moves you can make.
It might sound intimidating at first, but with the right guidance, it’s straightforward. The tools, trust, and financial access it unlocks are well worth the time and investment.
If I did it from a coffee shop in Dublin, so can you.