Want to Start a Business in the U.S.? Key Steps to Register a U.S. Company from China Explained!

How to Start a Business in the U.S. A Complete Guide to Registering an American Company from China

In recent years, as globalization accelerates, more and more Chinese entrepreneurs have set their sights on overseas markets-particularly the United States, the world’s largest economy. Whether in cross-border e-commerce, technology RD, or consulting services, the U.S. market offers tremendous appeal. At the same time, the trend of Chinese enterprises going global has become increasingly evident. Many entrepreneurs now attempt to complete preliminary preparations domestically and remotely register U.S. companies, thereby expanding their international business operations.

According to the 2025 report on Chinese outbound investment released by the Ministry of Commerce, although Chinese direct investment in the U.S. was affected by multiple factors over the past three years, many small and medium-sized enterprises still entered the U.S. market through subsidiaries or joint ventures. In states such as California, New York, and Florida, the number of companies registered by Chinese investors continues to rise, spanning industries like technology, healthcare, and renewable energy.

For Chinese individuals interested in starting a business in the U.S., how can they complete the registration process without leaving China? This article outlines the essential procedures and key considerations for registering a U.S. company remotely.

1. Choose the Right Business Structure

The first step in registering a company in the U.S. is to determine the appropriate business structure. Different structures come with varying legal status, tax treatments, and operational costs. The most common types include

Limited Liability Company LLC Currently the most popular option among small and mid-sized investors, LLCs offer limited liability protection and flexible tax treatment.

Corporation C Corp Suitable for medium-to-large businesses, especially those seeking external funding or planning to go public. However, setup and maintenance costs are higher.

S Corporation S Corp Ideal for small businesses, offering similar tax benefits to an LLC but with restrictions on shareholder numbers and nationalities.

Branch Office or Representative Office Appropriate for companies not yet committed to long-term U.S. operations, mainly used for market research and client outreach.

For most first-time Chinese entrepreneurs entering the U.S. market, forming an LLC is both the most common and recommended choice.

2. Select the State of Registration

The U.S. operates under a federal system, so state laws regarding corporations vary significantly. Before registration, it's crucial to choose the right state based on several factors

Tax policies

Registration and annual maintenance costs

Legal environment

Whether foreigners are allowed to register

Delaware is the top choice for many international investors due to its mature legal framework, pro-business environment, and absence of state-level corporate income tax. Wyoming and Nevada are also favored for their low taxes and strong privacy protections.

Although you can register your company in a state where you don’t operate, if you conduct business in another state, you must file for Foreign Qualification there. Failure to do so may result in fines or legal risks.

3. Prepare Required Documents and Information

While physical presence in the U.S. is not required, the following materials are necessary for registration

1. Company Name - Must be unique and not already registered.

2. Registered Address - Can be provided via a third-party service.

3. Registered Agent Information - A mandatory requirement under U.S. law to receive legal documents.

4. Identification Documents of Shareholders and Directors

5. Business Purpose Description

6. Articles of Organization or Certificate of Formation

A Registered Agent is legally required and must be based in the state of registration. For non-residents, professional service providers can fulfill this role on your behalf.

4. Apply for an Employer Identification Number EIN

Once the company is officially registered, the next step is to apply for an Employer Identification Number EIN from the Internal Revenue Service IRS. This number functions like a Social Security number for your business and is needed to open bank accounts, file taxes, and hire employees.

There are two main ways to apply

Online Application via the IRS website

By Mail or Fax, using Form SS-4

Non-U.S. residents often find the online method more convenient, though it requires completing the application and having a contact person within the U.S. assist with verification.

5. Open a U.S. Bank Account

To facilitate financial transactions, it is advisable to open a U.S. corporate bank account. Traditionally, this required the legal representative to travel to the U.S., but some banks now support remote account opening. Examples include Silicon Valley Bank and certain fintech platforms.

Alternatively, third-party institutions such as HSBC and Standard Chartered offer cross-border banking services that may include assistance with U.S. account opening.

6. Compliance and Ongoing Maintenance

Registration is just the beginning. To ensure smooth and lawful operation, ongoing compliance is essential

Annual Reports Most states require yearly filings and fees.

Tax Filings Even without revenue, you may still need to submit federal and state tax returns.

Trademark Registration If branding is part of your strategy, register your trademark with the United States Patent and Trademark Office USPTO early.

Legal Compliance Adhere to local labor laws, data privacy regulations, and other relevant rules.

Recently, the Securities and Exchange Commission SEC has intensified oversight of foreign companies operating in the U.S., particularly concerning disclosure requirements and anti-money laundering protocols. Maintaining strict compliance practices is crucial to avoid legal complications.

Conclusion

Starting a business in the U.S. is no longer an unattainable dream. With modern technology and professional support, Chinese entrepreneurs can establish a U.S. company entirely from home. However, entrepreneurship comes with challenges. Thorough planning, understanding of legal frameworks, and choosing the right path are key to taking a solid first step into the U.S. market.