Answers
Can a non-US citizen own an LLC?
Yes. In many cases, a non-US citizen can own a US limited liability company, or LLC, which is a business structure that can help separate the owner's personal assets from business debts and claims. The details depend on the state, the business activity, tax setup, and whether another rule applies to your industry or immigration situation.
Short answer: usually yes
A non-US citizen can often form and own an LLC in the United States. There is no general rule that says only US citizens can own one.
But owning an LLC is not the same as having permission to work in the US, live in the US, open a bank account, or run a regulated business. Those are separate questions.
If you are just starting, it helps to check the basics first:
- The state's Secretary of State website for formation rules
- IRS.gov for tax registration and federal tax information
- A licensed business-law attorney for state-specific and fact-specific guidance
If you want help finding one, you can use FoundryCounsel's free matching service at get matched. FoundryCounsel is not a law firm and does not give legal advice.
What else matters besides citizenship
Citizenship is only one piece of the picture. Other issues often matter more.
An employer identification number, or EIN, is the IRS tax ID number for a business. Many LLCs need one for taxes, hiring, and banking. You can learn more in What is an EIN and how to get one.
A registered agent is a person or company with a physical address in the state who receives legal and government mail for the business. Most states require one.
Articles of organization are the filing documents used to create an LLC with the state. An operating agreement is the internal document that explains who owns the LLC, how decisions are made, and how money is handled.
You may also need:
- State or local business licenses
- Industry-specific approvals
- Tax registrations
- A bank that accepts your ownership and identity documents
If you are deciding whether an LLC is the right structure, see How to form an LLC in the US and LLC vs corporation: which is right.
A simple example
Example: A business owner living outside the US wants to sell software services to US customers. They may be able to form a Delaware or Wyoming LLC, appoint a registered agent in that state, apply for an EIN, and sign contracts through the company.
But that same owner may still need to sort out tax filings, state registration in another state where the business is actually operating, contract terms, and whether their activities create other legal obligations.
If the business has two or more owners, a founder agreement can help clarify ownership, roles, pay, decision-making, and what happens if someone leaves. You can read more about partnership and founder agreements and contracts and agreements.
What to do next
A practical next step is to make a short list of facts before speaking with a lawyer:
1. Which state you want to form in
2. Where you will actually do business
3. What the business sells
4. Whether there will be co-owners, workers, or investors
5. Whether you need licenses or a commercial lease
Then compare state filing rules with the Secretary of State website and tax information on IRS.gov. If trademarks matter, check USPTO.gov.
If you want to speak with a lawyer, FoundryCounsel can help you get matched with a licensed business-law attorney for free. Share only contact details and a short description of what you need. Do not send sensitive personal numbers, bank details, immigration records, or confidential business secrets through a form.
An honest note
This is general educational information, not legal advice, and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws and fees vary by state and change over time — confirm details with a licensed attorney and official sources before you act.
Yes, a non-US citizen can often own a US LLC, but formation, taxes, banking, licensing, and immigration are separate issues you should check carefully.
Common questions
Do I need to be a US citizen or green card holder to form an LLC?
Usually no. Many non-US citizens can form and own an LLC, but state rules, tax issues, banking requirements, and the type of business still matter.
Does owning an LLC give me a visa or work permission?
No. Business ownership and immigration permission are separate issues. A licensed attorney can help you understand how your business plans fit with your legal situation.
Can a non-US citizen get an EIN for an LLC?
Often yes, but the process depends on the facts and IRS requirements. The safest source is IRS.gov, and a lawyer or tax professional can help you understand the steps.
What if I live outside the US and have a co-founder in the US?
That can work, but you should document ownership, roles, decision-making, and exits clearly. A written operating agreement and, in some cases, a separate founder agreement can prevent expensive disputes later.
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