Want to Start a Company in the U.S.? Here Are the Reg. Docs You Need to Prepare!

How to Register a Company in the U.S. What Key Documents Do You Need?

In recent years, with the acceleration of globalization and the continued development of U.S.-China economic and trade relations, more and more Chinese entrepreneurs and investors have turned their attention to the U.S. market. Whether it’s to expand business operations, enhance brand visibility internationally, or prepare for future financing or listing, registering a U.S. company has become an increasingly popular choice. According to media reports in 2025, more than 100,000 new companies were registered in just two popular states - California and Delaware - with a significant number of investors coming from Asia.

Despite the U.S.’s relatively mature business environment and streamlined registration process, foreign investors, especially those entering the market for the first time, still face certain challenges and entry barriers. To successfully register a company in the U.S., it is essential to understand and prepare the following key documents and materials.

1. Determine the Company Type and State of Registration

Before registering a company in the U.S., it’s crucial to choose the appropriate business structure based on your operational needs and long-term goals. Common options include

Limited Liability Company LLC

Corporation Inc.

Partnership

Each structure has different implications for taxation, liability protection, and management. For example, LLCs are favored by many small and medium-sized businesses due to their flexibility and limited liability protection.

Additionally, the U.S. is a federal system, so each state has its own regulations, tax policies, and operating costs. Delaware is a popular choice for many startups and multinational corporations due to its business-friendly laws and mature legal framework. California, on the other hand, attracts many tech-oriented companies due to its vibrant innovation ecosystem.

Before proceeding with registration, conduct thorough research on the target state’s regulatory environment and align it with your business strategy.

2. Provide Valid Identification Documents

Regardless of whether the registrant is a U.S. citizen, valid identification documents are required. For non-residents, this typically includes a copy of the passport. Some states or registration agents may require notarization or certified translation of these documents.

Although the U.S. does not require company owners to be physically present during the registration process, it is common to appoint an authorized agent through a Power of Attorney POA. This document usually needs to be notarized and submitted to the relevant state office.

3. Prepare Company Information and Registration Documents

To register a company in the U.S., you must submit a set of essential documents and information, including

1. Company Name - Must comply with state regulations, be unique, and include the appropriate legal suffix e.g., LLC or Inc..

2. Registered Address - A valid physical address in the state of registration is required. If the owner does not reside locally, a registered agent service can be used.

3. Governing Documents - Such as Articles of Incorporation for Corporations or an Operating Agreement for LLCs, which outline the company’s structure, shareholder rights, and management procedures.

4. Federal Tax ID EIN - This is the company’s equivalent of a Social Security number and is required for tax filings and opening a bank account. Non-residents can apply online through the IRS website.

4. Financial and Budget Preparation

Beyond paperwork, there are also financial considerations

Registration Fees - Vary by state. For example, the base fee to register an LLC in Delaware is around $90, but total costs including additional fees may reach several hundred dollars.

Annual Fees - Most states require annual reporting and associated fees. California, for instance, imposes an $800 annual tax on LLCs.

Professional Services - Optional but often recommended, such as legal or accounting consultation, or registered agent services.

5. Consider Professional Support

Due to language barriers, differences in legal systems, and cultural nuances, many first-time investors opt to work with professional service providers. These firms can assist with everything from company name searches and document preparation to bank account opening and tax registration.

According to 2025 reports from multiple financial media outlets, an increasing number of cross-border platforms now offer U.S.-China integrated registration solutions, helping clients save time and reduce complexity.

6. Post-Registration Compliance and Maintenance

Registering the company is just the beginning. Ongoing compliance is equally important

Submit annual reports on time

Pay applicable taxes

Maintain accurate financial records

Obtain business licenses if conducting local operations

Open a U.S. bank account

Comply with labor and industry-specific regulations

Conclusion

Registering a company in the U.S. is a comprehensive and multi-step process that requires careful planning, document preparation, and a clear understanding of legal and regulatory requirements. For investors aiming to enter the U.S. market, early planning and strategic positioning are key to laying a solid foundation for long-term success.