LLC Formation in the USA
Set up your Limited Liability Company in the United States and gain access to the world's largest market with asset protection and an American bank account.
What Is an LLC?
A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a type of American company that combines the limited liability protection of a corporation with the flexibility and tax simplicity of a partnership or sole proprietorship.
For international entrepreneurs, the LLC has become the preferred structure for its remote operation, low bureaucracy and tax flexibility. With an LLC, you can have a US business presence without needing to live in the country.
"The American LLC is the gateway to the global market. With it, you can receive payments in dollars, use international payment processors and have the credibility to do business with companies worldwide."
Advantages of the American LLC
Why the LLC is the preferred choice of global entrepreneurs
Liability Protection
The LLC separates your personal assets from the company's, protecting you from business liabilities and company debts.
Global Credibility
An American company conveys international trust and eases business with clients and suppliers worldwide.
US Bank Account
Access to the American banking system with dollar accounts, corporate credit cards and payment processing.
Tax Flexibility
LLCs offer pass-through or corporate taxation options, letting you choose the most advantageous regime.
100% Remote Setup
The whole process can be done online, with no need to travel to the US or have a personal American address.
Simple Maintenance
Less bureaucracy and fewer regulatory requirements than other US company types like a C-Corp.
Who Is It For?
The American LLC suits a wide range of entrepreneur profiles
International E-commerce
Sell on American marketplaces (Amazon, eBay) and process payments via Stripe and PayPal with an American company.
Service Providers
Receive payments from international clients in dollars with more credibility, without the limitations of billing as an individual.
Investors
Structure your international investments through an American LLC for greater protection and flexibility.
Startups
Position your startup to receive American investment and raise funds from international VCs.
Best States for an LLC
Each state has specific advantages — choose the ideal one for your business
Wyoming
Cost: LowThe most popular state for LLCs owned by foreigners. No state income tax, strong privacy protection, low annual fees and robust asset protection.
Ideal for: Holdings, international e-commerce, consulting, investments
Delaware
Cost: MediumThe traditional jurisdiction for American businesses. A Court of Chancery specialized in corporate law, with highly developed legislation respected internationally.
Ideal for: Startups seeking investment, tech companies, mergers and acquisitions
Florida
Cost: MediumNo state income tax and a strong Brazilian community. Easy for visits and networking. Ideal for those planning to immigrate in the future.
Ideal for: Brazilians planning to immigrate, business with Brazil, real estate
New Mexico
Cost: Very lowA very low-cost option with good privacy. No annual report or franchise tax required. Ideal for maximum simplicity.
Ideal for: Freelancers, small online businesses, those seeking lowest cost
Formation Process
From choosing a state to a bank account, in simple steps
State Selection
We assess your business and recommend the best state to form your LLC.
Name & Documentation
We check name availability and prepare the Articles of Organization.
LLC Registration
We submit the documents to the Secretary of State and obtain official registration.
EIN (US Tax ID)
We apply for your Employer Identification Number with the IRS.
Operating Agreement
We draft your LLC's bylaws with the operating rules.
Bank Account
We help open an American corporate bank account.
LLC Taxation
Understand the tax options available
Single-Member LLC (Disregarded Entity)
For single-owner non-resident LLCs, the company is treated as a 'disregarded entity'. This means the LLC itself doesn't pay taxes — profits pass directly to the owner. If the owner is a foreigner with no physical presence in the US and the income isn't US-sourced, American tax exemption may apply.
⚠️ Always consult an accountant specialized in international taxation.
Multi-Member LLC (Partnership)
LLCs with multiple members are treated as partnerships. Profits are split among members per the Operating Agreement, and each declares their share.
⚠️ Withholding obligations may apply for foreign members.
S-Corp or C-Corp Election
LLCs can elect to be taxed as an S-Corp or C-Corp through IRS forms. This can be advantageous in specific situations, mainly for US residents.
⚠️ S-Corp status is generally not available to non-residents.
Points to Consider
Filing Obligations
Even with no tax due, there may be filing obligations (Form 5472, FBAR). Failing to stay compliant can result in significant penalties.
Bank Account
Opening an American bank account as a foreigner can be challenging. Some banks require an in-person visit or a high minimum deposit.
Business Substance
For tax purposes, it's important that the LLC has real substance (activities, contracts, transactions). Structures with no commercial purpose can be questioned.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get your questions about the American LLC answered
Can foreigners start an LLC in the US?
Yes! Any person or foreign entity can own an American LLC. No residency, US citizenship, visa or physical presence in the US is required to form and maintain an LLC.
Do I need to go to the US to start the company?
No. The entire formation process can be done 100% online, including registration, EIN and documentation. For a bank account, some banks allow remote opening, others require a visit.
What does it cost to maintain an LLC annually?
Costs vary by state. Wyoming has an annual fee of around $60. Delaware charges a franchise tax of $300/year. There are also registered agent costs ($100-300/year) and accounting (variable). We offer full maintenance packages.
What is a Registered Agent and why do I need one?
A Registered Agent is a person or company with a physical address in the state that receives legal and official documents on behalf of your LLC. It's required by law. Our service includes this.
Does an LLC grant a US visa?
Having an LLC alone doesn't guarantee a visa. However, an LLC can serve as the basis for business visas (B1/B2), investor visas (E-2) or transfer visas (L-1), depending on activities and investment.
How does taxation work for Brazilians?
For Brazilian non-residents in the US, taxation depends on the nature of the income. US-source income (e.g., US clients) may be taxed. Foreign-source income operated through an American LLC may have different treatment. It's essential to consult a specialized accountant.
Can I use the LLC to receive payments from platforms like Upwork?
Yes! An American LLC lets you receive payments from platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, Amazon and others more professionally, with a US bank account and EIN.
What's the difference between an LLC and a Corporation?
An LLC offers more flexibility, fewer formalities and pass-through taxation. A Corporation has a more rigid structure but may be better for raising investment. Most individual entrepreneurs and small businesses prefer an LLC.
Do I need an accountant in the US?
We strongly recommend having an accountant specialized in international taxation. LLCs with foreign owners may have specific filing obligations (e.g., Form 5472).
Does the LLC protect against personal lawsuits?
The LLC offers 'inside-out protection' — it shields your personal assets from the company's debts. 'Outside-in protection' (protecting the company from personal lawsuits against you) is stronger in states like Wyoming and Nevada.
Ready for Your Company in the United States?
Our team is ready to help you form your LLC quickly and safely, 100% online.