The five steps
- Choose your state. Wyoming, Delaware, and New Mexico are the common picks — no residency required. See best states for non-residents.
- Form the LLC. File the articles through a service that supports non-residents.
- Get an EIN without an SSN. File Form SS-4 by fax/mail — the full walkthrough.
- Open US business banking. Wise, Mercury, and others accept non-residents — see US banking options.
- Appoint a registered agent & stay compliant. Required for life; plus annual Form 5472.
The one step you can't skip
A non-resident cannot act as their own registered agent. You must appoint a commercial agent with a physical address in your formation state — it renews yearly and keeps the company in good standing. This is the backbone of the whole setup.
Some links on this page are partner links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you — always labeled. For official filings you can use your state's .gov registry directly. This is general information, not legal or tax advice.
Frequently asked questions
Can a non-US resident open a US LLC?
Yes. There is no citizenship or residency requirement to own a US LLC. You can form one entirely remotely.
What's the hardest part for non-residents?
Usually the EIN (no SSN), opening US banking, and Form 5472 compliance. The registered agent is the one step you legally cannot do yourself.
Do I need to visit the US?
No. Formation, EIN, and most banking options can be completed remotely, though some banks prefer a US visit or address.