Forming a US LLC as a non-resident

Can a non-resident own a US LLC?

Yes. A limited liability company (LLC) is a US business entity that separates your personal assets from the company. There is no citizenship or residency requirement to form or own one, and one person can own all of it. Founders use a US LLC to sell to US customers, use US payment platforms, invoice in dollars or hold a business with a simple structure.

An LLC is a company, not an immigration status: it does not give you a visa or the right to live or work in the US. It also does not replace the tax rules of the country where you live — ask a local accountant how your country treats it.

What you need

• A state: Dottie forms LLCs in New Mexico and Wyoming.
• A company name, plus one or two alternatives in case the first is taken.
• The members (owners) and their share of the company.
• A short description of what the business does.
• A registered agent in the state — Dottie provides one, or you can use your own.

You do not need a US address, a US phone number, an SSN or an ITIN. Dottie does not ask for your passport to form the LLC.

Choosing the state

You do not have to form the LLC where you live or where your customers are. New Mexico is the cheapest to maintain; Wyoming has no state income tax and a very well-known LLC law. See the full comparison of Wyoming vs New Mexico.

How it works with Dottie

1. You Tell Dottie the state, the company name (plus alternatives), the members and the business purpose. Review the total and pay. A few minutes
2. Dottie Checks the name is available and files the formation with the state. 1 business day after payment
3. The state Approves the LLC and issues the formation document. Usually 1–3 business days
4. You Sign the SS-4 (the EIN application) in the app, on your phone. Dottie prepares it. A couple of minutes
5. Dottie Sends the SS-4 to the IRS. Same or next business day
6. The IRS Assigns your EIN. Dottie adds it to your company in the app as soon as it arrives. Usually 1–3 weeks

Most LLCs are formed in a few business days; the EIN usually takes 1–3 more weeks. Times depend on the state and the IRS and are not guaranteed.

What you owe every year

• Registered agent: required by law in every state. $59 a year with Dottie.
• Annual report: only in Wyoming, due the first day of the anniversary month ($50 with Dottie + the state fee from $60).
• Federal filing: a single-member LLC owned by a non-resident usually files Form 5472 with a pro forma 1120 every year, even without income. Dottie prefills it for $199; you review, sign and remain responsible.

LLCs with two or more members are treated differently by the IRS and file a partnership return instead. Dottie's tax filing service covers single-member LLCs owned by a non-resident.