Want to Start a Company in the U.S.? Understand the Requirements and Process in One Article

How to Register a Company in the United States Everything You Need to Know

In recent years, with the acceleration of global economic integration, more and more entrepreneurs and small business owners have started to look toward overseas markets-especially the United States, the world's largest economy. According to recent data released by the U.S. Department of Commerce, the U.S. economy continued to demonstrate strong resilience and growth potential in 2025, particularly in sectors such as technology, e-commerce, and green energy, drawing significant international investment. For entrepreneurs planning to expand into the U.S. market, understanding the requirements and procedures for registering a company is the first step toward internationalization.

1. Common Types of U.S. Business Entities

When registering a company in the U.S., one of the first and most important decisions is choosing the appropriate business structure. Different entity types are suited to various operational needs and come with distinct legal and tax implications. The most common types include

1. Sole Proprietorship Ideal for individual entrepreneurs, this is the simplest structure to establish. However, the owner assumes unlimited personal liability for the business’s debts.

2. Limited Liability Company LLC One of the most popular choices, combining the liability protection of a corporation with the tax flexibility of a partnership.

3. C Corporation C Corp Suitable for larger businesses, a C Corp is a separate legal entity, but it is subject to double taxation-once at the corporate level and again on shareholder dividends.

4. S Corporation S Corp Similar to a C Corp but allows for pass-through taxation, avoiding double taxation. It is often preferred by small to mid-sized businesses.

Choosing the right business structure is the most critical step in the registration process.

2. Basic Requirements for Registering a U.S. Company

To successfully register a company in the U.S., the following requirements must be met

Company Name The name must be unique within the chosen state and not already registered. A name search is typically required.

Registered Address A physical address in the U.S. is mandatory. If the owner resides outside the U.S., a registered agent service can be used.

Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Organization These are core documents submitted during registration, containing essential information such as the company name, registered address, shareholder details, and business purpose.

Employer Identification Number EIN Issued by the Internal Revenue Service IRS, this unique identifier is required for tax reporting, opening bank accounts, and other official purposes.

Business License and Industry Permits Depending on the industry and state, additional licenses or permits may be necessary.

3. Step-by-Step Registration Process

1. Choose the State of Registration Each U.S. state has different legal and tax regulations. For example, Delaware is known for its well-developed corporate law and favorable tax policies, making it a popular choice. Nevada is attractive due to its lack of corporate income tax and strong privacy protections.

2. Select the Business Structure Based on your business size, operations, and tax considerations, choose the most suitable entity type.

3. File the Articles of Incorporation/Organization Submit the required documents to the Secretary of State in your chosen state and pay the associated filing fee, which typically ranges from $100 to $500.

4. Apply for an EIN This can be done online via the IRS website and usually takes just a few minutes.

5. Open a U.S. Bank Account Many entrepreneurs open a U.S. business bank account to facilitate transactions. Some banks allow non-residents to open accounts remotely, but banks like Citibank or HSBC may offer better international services.

6. Maintain Compliance and File Annual Reports Most states require annual reports and fees to maintain active status.

4. Special Considerations for Foreign Entrepreneurs

Foreign nationals are not required to be U.S. citizens or green card holders to register a company in the U.S., but the following points should be noted

Visa and Immigration Requirements Registering a company does not grant the right to live or work in the U.S. Those planning to operate in the U.S. long-term may need to apply for a business visa, such as the E-2 Treaty Investor Visa.

U.S. Tax Obligations Even if the business operates outside the U.S., it may still be required to file U.S. tax returns. Consulting a tax advisor is highly recommended.

Intellectual Property Protection If you plan to build a brand in the U.S., register trademarks early to prevent infringement or unauthorized use.

Legal and Compliance Support Given the complexity of the U.S. legal system, it is advisable to seek assistance from legal or professional registration services to ensure compliance and reduce risk.

5. Recent Trends and Recommendations

According to a 2025 Forbes report, an increasing number of Chinese entrepreneurs are choosing to register tech or cross-border e-commerce companies in the U.S., particularly in fields such as artificial intelligence, new energy, and health technology. With the rise of remote work, many startups are opting for virtual registration through registered agent services and establishing virtual offices in the U.S.

The U.S. government has also been improving its business environment. Some states have introduced online registration platforms to streamline the process. Additionally, the U.S. Small Business Administration SBA offers various support services, including business counseling and financing advice, to help startups succeed.

Conclusion

While registering a company in the U.S. involves multiple steps and legal requirements, it is a worthwhile endeavor for businesses aiming to expand globally. With proper planning, a clear understanding of the registration process, and support from professional services, setting up a U.S. company can be a smooth and strategic move. As the global business landscape continues to evolve, seizing opportunities and positioning your business early can help you gain a competitive edge on the international stage.