Starting a US LLC as a non-resident can feel overwhelming—especially when you don’t have a physical address in the United States. But thanks to virtual mailbox services, you don’t need one. In this article, we’ll explain how you can use a virtual mailbox to register your LLC legally and effectively, even if you live abroad.
Why You Need a US Address to Form an LLC
To form an LLC in any US state, you need:
- A registered agent address in the state of formation
- A mailing address for official documents
This doesn’t need to be a home or office—it can be a virtual mailbox.
What Is a Virtual Mailbox?
A virtual mailbox is a service that gives you a real US street address, not a P.O. Box. They scan and forward your mail digitally or physically, allowing you to manage your LLC’s correspondence from anywhere in the world.
Can You Use a Virtual Mailbox to Register an LLC?
Yes. As long as the virtual mailbox provides a real street address, it can be used for:
- Business registration
- IRS correspondence
- Bank applications
- Receiving legal documents
💡 Note: You still need a registered agent. Some virtual mailbox providers also offer registered agent services.
Step-by-Step: Registering an LLC with a Virtual Mailbox
1. Choose a State with Friendly LLC Laws
Popular options: Wyoming, Delaware, New Mexico.
2. Sign Up for a Virtual Mailbox Service
Make sure the address is:
- A real street address
- Accepts business mail
- Offers mail scanning or forwarding
Recommended providers:
- iPostal1
- Anytime Mailbox
- Traveling Mailbox
3. Use the Address in Your LLC Formation Documents
Use the virtual mailbox for:
- Business address (mailing)
- Principal office (if allowed)
4. Set Up Your Registered Agent
Some virtual mailbox services offer this too. Alternatively, hire a separate registered agent in your chosen state.
Legal Considerations
- Check the state’s rules: Some states may require a separate address for the registered agent.
- Don’t use a P.O. Box: Most states won’t accept P.O. Boxes for LLC registration.
- Maintain your mailbox: Keep your subscription active to avoid missing documents.
Advantages of Using a Virtual Mailbox
✅ Receive all your business mail from abroad
✅ Easy to manage documents online
✅ Helps protect your privacy
✅ Can be used for EIN, bank accounts, and IRS forms
Final Thoughts
Using a virtual mailbox is a smart, legal, and efficient way to register and operate a US LLC from anywhere in the world. Just be sure to choose a trusted provider with a physical street address and solid support.
Need help choosing the right provider?
Check our full comparison of Best Virtual Mailbox Services for LLCs.