frequent questions

answers to questions
our clients

Can forming a U.S. company help me get a visa?

Yes, in some cases. Certain U.S. visas are designed for entrepreneurs and investors. For example:

  • E-2 Investor Visa – Available to citizens of treaty countries; requires a substantial U.S. investment.

  • L-1 Visa – For business owners expanding an existing foreign company into the U.S.

  • EB-5 Visa – A path to a Green Card through significant U.S. investment.

Our attorneys can help assess which business visa is right for you and guide you through the application process.

Can I open a U.S. business bank account as a foreign owner?

Yes, foreign investors can open a U.S. business bank account, but banks require you to have an EIN and sometimes request that you visit a U.S. branch in person. We can assist you with obtaining an EIN, preparing required corporate documents, and connecting you with banks experienced in working with international clients.

Do I need a U.S. address to form a company?

In most states, you do not need to have a personal U.S. address to form an LLC or corporation. However, you are required to appoint a registered agent with a physical address in the state where you register your company. We provide or connect you with a registered agent services to ensure you meet all legal requirements and receive official documents on time.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen or resident to form a company?

No, you do not need to be a U.S. citizen or resident to form a company in the United States. Foreign entrepreneurs and investors can register an LLC or corporation in most states, including Florida, Delaware, and Wyoming. However, you’ll need a registered agent with a U.S. address and, in most cases, an EIN (Employer Identification Number) to operate legally and open a U.S. business bank account.

How do I form a corporation in the U.S.?

To form a corporation in the U.S., you must file Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State in your chosen state and complete several legal steps, including:

  • Choosing a unique corporate name

  • Appointing a registered agent

  • Issuing shares to shareholders

  • Drafting corporate bylaws

  • Obtaining an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

We recommend working with our team of experienced business formation attorneys to ensure that your company is structured correctly, complies with all state and federal regulations, and is set up to support your business and tax goals.

How long does it take to register a company in the U.S.?

The exact answer depends on the State of formation but generally a company can be formed within a few days.

How much does it cost to form an LLC or a corporation in the U.S.?

The cost of forming a company in the U.S. depends on the state and the type of entity you choose. Because every business has different needs, we offer tailored legal packages designed to provide the right level of support for your company formation and ongoing compliance.

What are the benefits of forming a company in the U.S. through a lawyer?

Forming a Company in the U.S. offers many advantages, especially when handled by an experienced attorney:

  • Proper legal structure – Ensure your corporation is formed in the right state and meets all compliance requirements.

  • Tailored agreements – Lawyers draft customized documents that reflect your ownership structure and business strategy.

  • Limited liability protection – A correctly structured company shields personal assets from business debts and claims.

  • Tax efficiency – An attorney can guide you on taxation and help you choose the most beneficial tax structure.

For foreign investors and European entrepreneurs, forming a company through a U.S. business lawyer ensures your company is legally compliant and aligned with your expansion plans.

What is the difference between an LLC and a Corporation in the U.S.?

The main difference between an LLC (Limited Liability Company) and a Corporation lies in their ownership structure, taxation, and compliance requirements:

  • Ownership & Structure – An LLC offers a flexible structure with “members,” while a Corporation has shareholders, a board of directors, and more formal management requirements.

  • Taxation – By default, LLCs benefit from pass-through taxation, meaning profits are taxed only once on the owners’ personal returns. Corporations are typically subject to double taxation (profits are taxed at the corporate level and again when distributed as dividends), although S-Corp elections may change this.

  • Compliance – LLCs require fewer formalities, such as annual meetings or shareholder minutes, while Corporations must follow stricter reporting and governance rules.

For many foreign investors and small businesses, an LLC is often the more flexible and cost-effective choice, while Corporations may be better suited for companies seeking outside investors or planning to go public.

What’s the best state to form an LLC as a foreign investor?

For most foreign entrepreneurs, the best state to form an LLC is usually where the business will operate, hire employees, or generate revenue. However, Delaware, Wyoming, and Nevada are popular for tax advantages, strong privacy protections, and business-friendly laws. If you plan to operate primarily in Florida, forming a Florida LLC is often the most practical and cost-effective option.