Check This Out, Shantou Peers How Much Does It Cost to Register a US Company? All You Need to Know!

How Much Does It Cost to Register a Company in the U.S.? A Full Breakdown for Entrepreneurs from Shantou

In recent years, with the acceleration of global economic integration, more and more small and medium-sized Chinese enterprises have started to look toward overseas markets. As one of the world’s largest economies, the United States has naturally become a top destination for companies seeking international expansion. In particular, entrepreneurs from Shantou are showing increasing interest in fields such as cross-border e-commerce, tech product exports, and brand globalization - eager to enhance their brand recognition and expand internationally by establishing a U.S.-based company.

So, how much does it really cost for entrepreneurs from Shantou to register a company in the U.S., and what does the process involve? Today, we’ll break down the latest information and real-world experience to give you a comprehensive overview.

1. Basic Costs of Registering a U.S. Company

Registering a company in the U.S. is not a single-step process but rather a multi-stage procedure involving several fees

1. State Filing Fee

This is the most basic cost, which varies by state

Delaware Starts at around $90

California Approximately $100 for registration, plus an annual fee of $800

New York Around $200+

Nevada About $75

Among these, Delaware and Nevada are especially popular among foreign investors due to their business-friendly legal systems and tax policies. According to a 2025 survey, over 60% of non-U.S. businesses choose to incorporate in these two states.

2. Name Availability Check Reservation

To ensure your chosen company name isn’t already taken, you typically need to pay a small fee usually $10-$30 for a name availability check. Some states also allow you to reserve the name temporarily for a similar amount.

3. Registered Agent Service

U.S. law requires every registered company to appoint a registered agent residing in the state of incorporation. If you're not a U.S. resident, you can hire a professional service, which usually costs between $100 and $300 per year.

4. EIN Employer Identification Number Application

An EIN is required for opening a bank account and filing taxes. Applying for an EIN is completely free through the IRS website, though some third-party services charge for assistance. We recommend applying directly to save money.

5. Corporate Document Preparation

This includes drafting documents like the Articles of Incorporation and Operating Agreement. Hiring a lawyer or agency to prepare these may cost between $200 and $500.

2. Additional Costs Compliance and Ongoing Operations

Beyond the initial setup, there are several recurring expenses to consider

1. Annual Report Franchise Tax

Most U.S. states require companies to submit annual reports and pay related fees

Delaware $300/year

Nevada $350/year

California $800/year + mandatory financial statement submission

Failure to meet these obligations can result in penalties or even suspension of your company status.

2. Bank Account Opening Fees

After registration, many companies open a U.S. bank account to facilitate operations. While some banks offer free accounts, they often come with minimum deposit requirements or monthly maintenance fees. Remote account opening especially for non-residents may require notarized documents or intermediary services, costing anywhere from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars.

3. Accounting and Tax Services

The U.S. tax system is complex, particularly for non-resident businesses. Hiring a professional accountant for bookkeeping and tax filings is highly recommended. Annual fees typically start from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the size and complexity of the business.

3. Budget Estimate Based on Delaware

Here’s a rough breakdown of total startup costs for entrepreneurs from Shantou registering a company in Delaware

Item Cost Range USD

--

State Registration Fee $90

Name Search Reservation $20

Registered Agent Annual $150

Legal Document Preparation $300

EIN Application $0 Free

Bank Account Related Fees $500

First Year Accounting/Tax $1,500

Total ~$2,560

In RMB terms, this is approximately ¥18,000, although the actual amount may vary depending on service providers and business structure.

4. Why Are More Shantou Businesses Registering in the U.S.?

According to a late-2025 report by the Southern Daily, SMEs in Guangdong, especially in cities like Shantou and Chaozhou, are accelerating their overseas expansion. Many are choosing to register in the U.S. for the following reasons

Enhanced Brand Image A U.S. entity helps build trust, especially among Western customers.

Easier Access to Capital U.S. companies are more attractive to international investors and easier to position for venture capital or IPOs.

Cross-Border E-Commerce Benefits Platforms like Amazon and eBay provide better support for local businesses.

Tax Optimization Opportunities With proper planning, certain tax efficiencies can be achieved.

Of course, all of this depends on understanding the rules, being well-prepared, and being willing to invest both time and resources.

Conclusion

Setting up a company in the U.S. is no small decision, but for businesses aiming for global growth, it's a path worth exploring. We hope this article helps entrepreneurs from Shantou gain clarity and confidence before taking the leap into international markets.