Can a Foreigner Open a Business 100% Online in the United States?

One of the most common questions among international entrepreneurs is: Can a foreigner open a company in the United States without living in the country and without traveling to the U.S.?

In most cases, the answer is yes.

Today, thousands of entrepreneurs around the world open U.S. companies remotely to sell internationally, provide services, operate e-commerce businesses, invest, or expand into the American market.

However, while much of the process can be completed online, there are important steps, requirements, and considerations that must be addressed.

In this article, you will understand how business formation for foreigners works in the United States, what documents are typically required, and what steps come after forming the company.

Can foreigners own businesses in the United States?

Yes.

The United States allows citizens of other countries to own American companies.

In many cases, it is not necessary to:

• Be a U.S. citizen

• Hold a Green Card

• Have a residency visa

• Live in the United States

  
  

This makes the U.S. one of the most attractive destinations for international entrepreneurs.

The United States allows citizens of other countries to own American companies.

Is it possible to open a business without being in the United States?

In many cases, yes.

A large portion of the business formation process can be completed remotely.

Depending on the business structure and services used, entrepreneurs can:

• Register a company online

• Apply for tax documents

• Organize the business structure remotely

• Hire accounting services from abroad

  
  

This is why many Brazilian entrepreneurs open U.S. companies without leaving Brazil.

What types of companies can a foreigner open?

The most common structures include:

🏢 LLC (Limited Liability Company)

The LLC is one of the most popular business structures for foreigners.

Key advantages include:

• Asset protection

• Simple structure

• Operational flexibility

• Less administrative bureaucracy

📈 C Corporation

Widely used by startups, businesses seeking investors, and companies with aggressive growth plans.

What documents are typically required?

Requirements may vary depending on the state and business structure.

Generally, the following are requested:

• Valid passport

• Residential address

• Information about the owners

• Company details

  
  

In many cases, a Social Security Number (SSN) is not required.

What happens after the company is formed?

Forming the company is only the first step.

After the business is established, it is usually necessary to:

🧾 Apply for an EIN

The Employer Identification Number (EIN) is the company’s tax identification number with the Internal Revenue Service.

🏦 Open a business bank account

A business account helps separate personal and corporate finances.

Depending on the financial institution and the entrepreneur’s situation, additional verification steps may be required.

📊 Organize bookkeeping

Every company should maintain accurate financial records.

🧾 Meet tax obligations

Even businesses without a physical presence in the United States may have tax obligations and periodic filing requirements.

Do I need a U.S. address?

A company generally needs a registered address in the state where it is formed.

Depending on the structure, it may be possible to use professional business address services or a registered agent.

Requirements vary according to the state and business type.

Which states are most popular among foreigners?

Among the most popular states are:

• Florida

• Delaware

• Wyoming

• Texas

  
  

The best choice depends on the company’s goals, business activities, and tax planning strategy.

The best choice depends on the company’s goals, business activities, and tax planning strategy.

What are the most common mistakes?

Many entrepreneurs make mistakes such as:

• Choosing the wrong structure

• Opening a business without tax planning

• Not understanding U.S. tax obligations

• Mixing personal and business finances

• Failing to maintain proper bookkeeping

• Ignoring state and federal requirements

  
  

These mistakes can lead to future costs and complications.

Is it worth opening a company in the United States?

For many entrepreneurs, the answer is yes.

Benefits include:

• Access to the U.S. market

• The ability to generate revenue in U.S. dollars

• Greater international credibility

• Global brand expansion

• Business structures recognized worldwide

  
  

Each situation should be analyzed individually to determine the most appropriate structure.

How AES Accounting can help

The AES Accounting, located in Orlando, assists Brazilian and international entrepreneurs throughout the entire process of forming and structuring businesses in the United States.

Services include:

• LLC and Corporation formation

• EIN applications

• Tax planning

• Bookkeeping

• Payroll

• Tax Returns

• Business consulting

  
  

With specialized support, you can structure your U.S. business with greater security and compliance.

Conclusion

Yes, foreigners can open businesses in the United States through a largely remote process, and this opportunity has become increasingly accessible to entrepreneurs around the world.

However, forming the company is only one part of the journey.

Choosing the right structure, implementing tax planning, and meeting ongoing tax obligations are essential for long-term success.

If you want to open your company in the United States with professional support, rely on AES Accounting in Orlando, Florida.

AES Accounting. Your strategic partner for doing business in the United States.