You don't necessarily need to live in the United States to own a US Limited Liability Company.

However, forming an LLC and operating it legally are two different matters. International owners should understand the basic requirements before getting started.

Can a Non-US Resident Own an LLC?

Generally, yes. US LLCs can have foreign owners, including individuals and companies.

You may be able to form an LLC without visiting the United States.

The appropriate structure and your ongoing obligations depend on your circumstances.

What Do You Need to Form an LLC?

The process generally involves:

• Choosing a state of formation
• Selecting an available company name
• Providing the required information about the company and its owners
• Appointing a Registered Agent
• Filing the formation documents
• Paying the applicable state fees

Additional information or documents may be required depending on your situation and the services requested.

What About an EIN?

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is issued by the IRS.

It is commonly used for tax reporting, banking, and other business purposes. Not every LLC has identical requirements, but many international owners will need one.

WDMS offers EIN application assistance as an optional service.

Will You Have to Pay US Taxes?

Possibly. There is no universal answer.

US federal tax treatment depends on factors including the LLC's ownership, tax classification, activities, and sources of income.

Your country of tax residence may also impose obligations related to your ownership of a US company.

Simply registering an LLC in the United States does not automatically make your income tax-free.

What About Reporting Requirements?

Certain foreign-owned US LLCs may have IRS information reporting obligations.

For example, a foreign-owned single-member LLC treated as a disregarded entity may be required to file Form 5472 together with a pro forma Form 1120 when the applicable reporting conditions are met.

As of October 2026, entities formed in the US are exempt from federal beneficial ownership reporting to FinCEN under the Corporate Transparency Act. This does not eliminate other identification and disclosure requirements, including those imposed by financial institutions.

A qualified tax professional should review your specific obligations.

Can You Open a US Bank Account?

You may be able to apply for a business account, but approval is never automatic.

Financial institutions have their own eligibility, identification, and compliance requirements.

WDMS cannot guarantee bank account approval.

What Does WDMS Handle?

We specialize in forming LLCs in Wyoming and Delaware, coordinating the registration paperwork, and handling agreed annual state maintenance services.

We don't provide individual legal or tax advice.

If you're considering a US LLC, we can explain our services, the registration process, and the information we'll need to get started.