The Right Way to Register a U.S. Company in Chengdu A Guide to Make It Easy

How to Successfully Register a U.S. Company in Chengdu A Guide to Make It Easy for You

In recent years, with the acceleration of global economic integration, more and more Chinese companies have chosen to register overseas to expand into international markets, enhance brand influence, and optimize tax structures. Among global destinations, the United States has become a top choice due to its mature business environment, open market system, and strong financial infrastructure. For companies based in Chengdu, a major economic hub in southwestern China, registering a U.S. company not only helps in tapping into the North American market but also lays a solid foundation for future global development.

1. Why Register a Company in the United States?

The U.S. is one of the world’s largest economies, boasting a highly developed capital market and a robust legal system. According to the World Bank’s 2025 Doing Business report, the U.S. ranks high in the Starting a Business indicator, reflecting a relatively transparent and efficient registration process. Some U.S. states, such as Delaware, Wyoming, and Nevada, offer particularly attractive tax policies, with some even waiving state income or corporate taxes-making them especially appealing to startups and small-to-medium enterprises SMEs.

With the continuous growth of cross-border e-commerce between China and the U.S., an increasing number of tech companies, foreign trade enterprises, and e-commerce sellers in Chengdu are exploring the option of setting up a U.S. entity. This allows them to better integrate with local supply chains, payment platforms, and logistics systems. For example, a cross-border e-commerce company based in Chengdu’s Hi-Tech Development Zone successfully registered a U.S. company in 2025 and established a more stable partnership with Amazon U.S. through that entity.

2. Main Methods for Chengdu Companies to Register a U.S. Company

Currently, Chengdu companies can register a U.S. company through the following methods

1. Self-registration

This involves submitting the required documents directly through the official websites of U.S. state governments. While this method is cost-effective, it requires a good command of English and familiarity with U.S. legal procedures, making it suitable for experienced entrepreneurs or legal professionals.

2. Engaging a Professional Agency

This is the most commonly chosen method. By working with professional registration agencies such as LegalZoom or Incfile, or Chinese-based international service providers, companies can significantly simplify the process and save time. These agencies typically offer one-stop services including registered address, registered agent, and drafting of corporate bylaws.

3. Collaborating with a U.S. Law Firm or Accounting Firm

This method is ideal for companies with long-term plans and intentions to establish formal operations in the U.S. Although more expensive, it offers greater advantages in terms of compliance and long-term tax planning.

3. Basic Steps to Register a U.S. Company

Although registration procedures vary slightly by state, the overall process generally includes the following steps

1. Choose the State of Registration

Companies should select a state based on their business needs. Delaware is favored for its well-developed corporate law and efficient court system; Wyoming and Nevada are popular due to the absence of state income or corporate taxes.

2. Check and Register the Company Name

Check the availability of the desired company name on the state’s official website and submit the registration application. The name must comply with state regulations and typically ends with LLC, Inc., or Corp.

3. Appoint a Registered Agent

U.S. law requires all registered companies to designate a registered agent located in the state of registration. The agent is responsible for receiving legal documents and official notices. The agent can be an individual or a professional service provider.

4. Prepare and File the Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Organization

Depending on the company structure C Corporation, S Corporation, or LLC, submit the appropriate formation documents. These usually include the company name, registered address, business purpose, and shareholder information.

5. Obtain an Employer Identification Number EIN

The EIN serves as the company’s tax identification number in the U.S., similar to China’s Unified Social Credit Code. It can be applied for online via the IRS website and is essential for opening a bank account and filing taxes.

6. Open a U.S. Bank Account

After registration, Chengdu companies can open a U.S. corporate bank account either remotely or by visiting the U.S. Some U.S. banks, such as Citibank and JPMorgan Chase, also allow account opening through their Chinese branches.

7. Compliance and Tax Registration

Depending on the nature of the business, companies may need to complete tax registration with the IRS and the relevant state authorities, as well as apply for business licenses. It is recommended to consult a professional accountant or lawyer at this stage to ensure compliance.

4. Key Considerations and Common Issues

1. Choosing the Right Business Structure

Common U.S. business types include C Corporations, S Corporations, and LLCs. LLCs are ideal for SMEs due to limited liability protection and flexible tax treatment, while C Corporations are more suitable for companies seeking investment or planning to go public.

2. Annual Reporting and Tax Obligations

All registered companies must fulfill annual reporting requirements and file taxes on time based on their structure and income. Even if the company is inactive, a zero tax return may still be required.

3. Intellectual Property Protection

If the company plans to use its brand or products in the U.S., it is advisable to register trademarks early to prevent infringement. Applications can be submitted to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office USPTO.

4. Foreign Exchange and Fund Management

After registering a U.S. company, Chinese enterprises must be mindful of foreign exchange controls. China has strict regulations on capital outflows, so it is recommended to transfer funds through legal and compliant channels.

5. Advantages and Prospects for Chengdu Companies Registering in the U.S.

As Chengdu grows in importance as a node city on the Belt and Road Initiative, more and more local companies are expanding overseas. Registering a U.S. company can significantly enhance a company’s international image and support strategic goals such as future financing, IPOs, and brand globalization. Demand for Chinese products and services in the U.S. continues to rise, particularly in fields like new energy, smart manufacturing, and biomedicine, where Chengdu-based companies have strong technical capabilities and cost advantages.

According to data from Chengdu’s Municipal Commerce Bureau, foreign investment by Chengdu-based companies increased by 18.6% in the first half of 2025, with a significant rise in investments directed toward the U.S. Many Chengdu tech firms have successfully accessed international capital and market resources by establishing RD centers or subsidiaries in the U.S.

Conclusion

Registering a U.S. company is no longer an out-of-reach goal. As long as companies understand the process, focus on key steps, and seek assistance from professional agencies, Chengdu enterprises can smoothly complete the registration and operate in compliance. In today’s era of irreversible globalization, early entry into overseas markets will open up broader development opportunities for businesses.