
First Step to Start a Business in the U.S. A Hands-On Guide to Successfully Register Your Company

How to Register a Company in the U.S. A Step-by-Step Guide for Chinese Entrepreneurs
In recent years, with globalization and the rapid growth of entrepreneurship, more and more Chinese entrepreneurs have turned their attention to overseas markets. The United States, as one of the world’s largest economies, offers a mature business environment, an open market system, and a well-developed legal framework, making it a top destination for international entrepreneurs. Particularly after 2025, as cross-border trade and investment between China and the U.S. gradually rebounded, many small and medium-sized Chinese enterprises and individual entrepreneurs have started exploring opportunities to register companies, set up branches, or even launch localized operations in the U.S.
So, what exactly does it take for a Chinese entrepreneur to register a company in the U.S.? What should you watch out for? This article will walk you through the entire process, based on practical experience and recent policy updates.
1. Decide on Your Company Type and State of Registration
The first step is to choose your company’s legal structure. The most common types include
LLC Limited Liability Company Ideal for small to medium entrepreneurs. It offers limited liability and flexible tax treatment, making it the most popular choice for startups.
C Corporation C Corp Suitable for companies planning to raise venture capital or go through multiple funding rounds. However, it’s subject to double taxation.
S Corporation S Corp Avoids double taxation but comes with strict limits on the number and nationality of shareholders.
Sole Proprietorship Simple to set up, suitable for freelancers or small-scale operators, but does not separate personal and business assets.
Each U.S. state has its own rules and tax policies regarding company registration. For example, Delaware is a top choice for many tech startups due to its mature corporate law and specialized court system. California, while known for its strong startup ecosystem, has higher taxes and is more suitable for established businesses.
According to recent reports, in the first half of 2025 alone, over 150,000 new companies were registered in Delaware, with about 5% coming from Asia, including many Chinese tech firms.
2. Prepare Basic Company Information and Documents
Before registration, you’ll need to prepare the following
1. Company Name Must be unique within the chosen state and follow the state’s naming guidelines.
2. Registered Address Can be a real office address or a registered agent Registered Agent - especially useful for entrepreneurs not yet based in the U.S.
3. Shareholder and Director Information Required for C Corps, but not typically for LLCs.
4. Business Purpose Usually a simple statement, such as engaged in technology product development and sales.
As of 2025, the Corporate Transparency Act CTA requires most U.S. companies to report beneficial owner information to FinCEN Financial Crimes Enforcement Network to combat money laundering. This means you’ll need to provide details of the ultimate beneficial owner, including name, date of birth, address, and ID number. Non-U.S. citizens can still fulfill this requirement through professional agents.
3. Step-by-Step Registration Process
1. Choose a State and Submit Registration Documents
File your Articles of Organization for LLC or Articles of Incorporation for C Corp through the state’s official website or via a professional service. These documents include your company name, registered address, and agent information.
2. Obtain an EIN Employer Identification Number
Similar to a tax ID in China, the EIN is essential for tax filings, opening bank accounts, and other business activities. You can apply for it for free via the IRS website.
3. Open a U.S. Bank Account
While some banks allow remote account opening, most still require at least one officer to visit the U.S. in person. However, in 2025, several U.S. banks introduced remote account opening with video verification, making the process easier for Chinese entrepreneurs.
4. Apply for Business Licenses and Industry Permits
Depending on your industry and location, you may need to obtain local licenses. For example, the food, healthcare, and education sectors each have specific regulatory requirements.
5. Complete Federal and State Tax Registration
Based on your legal structure, register for federal and state taxes and file income tax, sales tax, and other required reports on time.
4. Frequently Asked Questions and Practical Tips
Q1 Do I have to travel to the U.S. to register a company?
Not necessarily. Most registration steps can be handled through a professional agent, including submitting documents and applying for an EIN. However, opening a bank account or applying for a visa may require a physical visit.
Q2 Is the registration cost high?
The cost is relatively low. State registration fees range from $50 to $300, and registered agent services cost around $100-$300 per year. Additional costs may include legal or tax advisory services.
Q3 How do I handle tax issues between China and the U.S.?
There is a tax treaty between China and the U.S. to avoid double taxation, but navigating the system requires professional guidance. It’s highly recommended to consult with a tax expert familiar with both countries’ laws before registering.
Q4 How to operate the company after registration?
Once registered, you’ll need to think about local operations in the U.S., such as hiring, marketing, and compliance. Many Chinese entrepreneurs now choose to partner with local teams to better understand the market and reduce operational complexity.
5. Conclusion
The U.S. market is competitive, but also full of opportunity. For Chinese entrepreneurs aiming to expand globally, understanding and completing the U.S. company registration process is a crucial first step. As Sino-U.S. business ties continue to strengthen and U.S. policies for foreign entrepreneurs become more favorable, more Chinese companies are expected to establish a strong presence in the U.S.
If you’re considering or already planning to start a business in the U.S., start now choose the right state, work with a reliable agent, and plan your taxes carefully. With the right preparation, your U.S. entrepreneurial journey can be both smooth and successful.
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