How to Successfully Register a U.S. Company and Apply for a Visa A Full Analysis for Wuhu Businesses!

How Can Wuhu Companies Successfully Register a U.S. Company and Apply for Visas? A Detailed Guide

In recent years, with the acceleration of global economic integration, more and more Chinese companies have turned their attention to overseas markets, especially the United States-theworld’s largest economy. As an important city in Anhui Province, Wuhu has shown strong momentum in industrial upgrading and foreign trade expansion. Since 2025, several Wuhu-based companies have launched investment plans in the U.S., registering American companies and applying for relevant business visas as a key step in their global expansion strategy.

So, how can Wuhu companies smoothly register a U.S. company and apply for related visas? This article will provide a detailed explanation of the registration process, key considerations, and visa application procedures.

1. Basic Process for Registering a U.S. Company

The U.S. company registration system is well-established, though policies vary slightly by state. Typically, companies choose to register in states such as Delaware, California, or New York. Delaware is particularly popular among Chinese companies due to its mature corporate law system and flexible tax policies.

Step 1 Determine the Company Structure

Common types of U.S. companies include

LLC Limited Liability Company Suitable for small to medium-sized businesses, with simple setup and flexible tax options.

C-Corporation C-Corp Ideal for companies planning to raise capital or go public.

S-Corporation S-Corp Designed for small U.S. businesses; not available to foreign nationals.

For most Wuhu-based companies, an LLC is usually the best choice.

Step 2 Choose the State and Company Name

Select a state based on business nature, tax planning, and operational location. The company name must be checked against the U.S. company database to ensure it is not already in use.

Step 3 Appoint a Registered Agent

According to U.S. law, every registered company must have a registered agent based in the U.S., responsible for receiving legal documents. Wuhu companies can engage professional service providers to fulfill this requirement.

Step 4 Submit Registration Documents and Obtain an EIN

Documents typically include the Articles of Organization and Operating Agreement. After submission, the company must apply to the Internal Revenue Service IRS for an Employer Identification Number EIN, which functions as a company’s unique ID.

Step 5 Open a U.S. Bank Account

Once the company is registered, a U.S. bank account should be opened. Some banks allow remote account opening through power of attorney.

2. Key Considerations During Registration

Choose a Professional Service Provider Due to the complexity of the U.S. legal system, it is advisable to work with a reputable law firm or registration agency to avoid legal risks.

Understand Tax Obligations U.S. companies must comply with both federal and state tax requirements. Consulting with an accountant before registration can help establish a sound tax plan.

Maintain Compliance Annual reports and fees are required to maintain good standing.

Protect Intellectual Property If the business involves brand or technology exports, it is advisable to register trademarks and patents in the U.S. in advance to avoid infringement risks.

3. Business Visa Application Process and Key Points

After registering the company, executives or employees may need to apply for a U.S. business visa to conduct operations. The most common visa types include

B-1 Visa Business Visitor Visa For short-term visits such as attending exhibitions or meetings, with a typical stay of up to six months.

L-1 Visa Intracompany Transferee Executive/Manager Visa For transferring executives or specialized employees between a parent company and its U.S. subsidiary, with a maximum stay of seven years.

E-2 Visa Treaty Investor Visa For investors and employees from countries that have investment treaties with the U.S., suitable for long-term business operations.

B-1 Visa Application Process

1. Prepare documents Passport, invitation letter, company proof, financial proof, etc.

2. Complete the DS-160 online form.

3. Schedule a visa interview and pay the fee.

4. Attend the embassy interview.

5. Receive the visa.

L-1 Visa Application Process

1. The U.S. company files Form I-129 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services USCIS.

2. Once approved, the applicant applies for the L-1 visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in China.

3. Prepare supporting documents Company relationship proof, job description, work experience, etc.

4. Attend the visa interview.

E-2 Visa Application Process

The E-2 visa is available to nationals of countries with investment treaties with the U.S. Since China does not have such a treaty with the U.S., Chinese investors typically apply through a third country, such as Grenada or Turkey, which have signed E-2 treaties with the U.S.

4. Case Studies of Wuhu Companies

In 2025, a Wuhu-based tech company successfully registered an LLC in the U.S. and used the L-1 visa to send two executives to expand its market presence. The company’s management stated that a professional agency assisted with the registration process, while a U.S. legal team supported the visa application, ensuring a smooth and efficient process.

Recently, several Wuhu manufacturing companies have also completed U.S. company registration through third-party agencies and used the B-1 visa to send employees to trade shows in the U.S., achieving positive market results.

5. Conclusion

As Sino-U.S. economic and trade exchanges deepen, Wuhu companies are accelerating their international expansion. Registering a U.S. company and applying for business visas is not only a critical step in entering the global market but also a key move in enhancing brand influence and international competitiveness.

Throughout this process, companies should thoroughly understand U.S. laws and regulations, work with professional service providers, and ensure compliance and efficiency in both company registration and visa application, laying a solid foundation for long-term global development.