Forming a U.S. LLC has become a popular path for Saudi entrepreneurs looking to expand into global markets. Whether you’re a freelancer, e-commerce seller, software developer, or investor, establishing a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in the United States provides legal credibility, access to U.S. customers, and the ability to use trusted payment processors.
The good news? You don’t need to be a U.S. citizen or resident to start a U.S.-based LLC. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to start an LLC in the U.S. from Saudi Arabia, step-by-step.
Why Start a U.S. LLC from Saudi Arabia?
Entrepreneurs and startups in Saudi Arabia are increasingly forming U.S. LLCs to:
- Gain access to U.S. clients and marketplaces
- Accept international payments via Stripe, PayPal, or U.S. banks
- Build brand trust with a U.S. business address
- Avoid complexities of Saudi corporate law for global-facing ventures
- Limit personal liability through legal separation
Whether you run an Amazon FBA store, SaaS company, or freelance agency, a U.S. LLC offers unmatched flexibility.
Can a Saudi Citizen Own a U.S. LLC?
Yes. The U.S. allows non-resident aliens—including Saudi nationals—to fully own and operate an LLC. You do not need a Social Security Number (SSN), visa, or U.S. address. However, you must follow U.S. legal and tax procedures carefully.
Step-by-Step: How to Form a U.S. LLC from Saudi Arabia
1. Choose the Right State
The most popular states for non-resident LLC formation are:
- Wyoming – Low annual fees, strong privacy
- Delaware – Legal simplicity and strong investor trust
- New Mexico – Affordable, no annual report
These states allow full remote setup with no physical presence.
2. Hire a Registered Agent
A registered agent is a U.S.-based person or company who receives official legal and tax documents on behalf of your LLC.
As a non-resident, you are required to hire a registered agent service. Prices range from $50–$150 per year.
3. File Your Articles of Organization
You’ll need to file this document with the state where you form your LLC. This step officially registers your company.
Information typically required:
- LLC name
- Registered agent details
- Mailing address (your agent’s can be used)
- Business purpose
You can file online in most states. Processing takes 1–10 days depending on the state.
🔗 Find your Secretary of State for LLC formation
4. Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
An EIN is a U.S. tax ID number required to:
- Open a U.S. business bank account
- File tax returns
- Process payments legally
You can’t apply online from Saudi Arabia. Instead, complete IRS Form SS-4 and submit it by fax or mail.
You don’t need a Social Security Number—just leave that field blank.
🔗 IRS EIN Application Information
5. Draft an Operating Agreement
Though not required in all states, this document defines how your LLC is structured, including:
- Member roles and rights
- Profit-sharing rules
- Management structure
It’s strongly recommended even if you’re a single-member LLC, as it proves your business is a separate legal entity.
6. Open a U.S. Business Bank Account
You’ll need:
- Your LLC formation documents
- EIN from the IRS
- Passport or valid Saudi ID
- U.S. address (registered agent’s address may work)
You can either travel to the U.S. to open a traditional bank account or use a U.S. online bank like Mercury, Wise, or Relay that supports non-residents.
7. Stay Compliant with U.S. Tax Laws
Even if you don’t live in the U.S., you’ll need to:
- File Form 5472 with Form 1120 (annually)
- Maintain accurate bookkeeping
- Possibly pay state franchise taxes depending on the state
If your LLC has U.S.-source income, you may owe U.S. federal tax. Consult a U.S. accountant familiar with non-resident LLCs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forming in the wrong state without researching fees or tax policies
- Failing to file annual reports or federal tax forms
- Using a business name that is already trademarked or registered
- Trying to open a U.S. bank account without the correct documents
- Not consulting a tax advisor before operating the LLC
FAQs for Saudi Entrepreneurs
❓ Do I need a U.S. address to start a U.S. LLC?
No. Your registered agent’s U.S. address is sufficient. You can also use mail forwarding services for business correspondence.
❓ Do I need to be in the U.S.?
No. Everything from filing the LLC to opening a virtual bank account can be done remotely.
❓ Will I pay taxes in the U.S.?
Only if your LLC has U.S.-sourced income. Otherwise, you may not owe income tax, but you must still file informational returns like Form 5472.
❓ Can I run my business from Saudi Arabia?
Yes. Many U.S. LLCs are owned and managed remotely by entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia using tools like Stripe, Zoom, and Shopify.
Final Thoughts
Setting up an LLC in the U.S. from Saudi Arabia is not only legal—it’s strategic. It provides international credibility, flexible operations, and access to the world’s largest economy.
By following the steps above, working with a registered agent, and staying compliant with tax laws, you can build a trusted U.S. presence without leaving home.