There has never been a better time to open a USA company as a foreigner or a remote entrepreneur. Whether you are launching a private label brand on Amazon, setting up a Shopify dropshipping store, or offering freelance services globally, a US Limited Liability Company (LLC) provides credibility, liability protection, and access to the US banking system.

For many international entrepreneurs and digital nomads, Wyoming is the number one choice. It is renowned as the most privacy-focused and cost-effective state for remotely operated businesses.

Why Wyoming is the “Swiss Army Knife” of LLCs

Before we dive into the paperwork, it’s vital to understand why savvy Amazon sellers and dropshippers choose Wyoming over famous states like Delaware or Nevada.

🔒

Ultimate Privacy

Wyoming does not require the names of LLC owners (members) to be listed on the public Articles of Organization. Only your Registered Agent’s details are public.

💰

Lowest Costs

Filing Fee: $100.
Annual Fee: $60.
Compared to California ($800/year) or Delaware ($300/year), Wyoming is a bargain for bootstrapped startups.

📈

No State Tax

Wyoming has zero state corporate income tax and no personal income tax. You are only responsible for US Federal taxes (IRS).

🛑 The “Remote E-com Stack” (Do This First)

If you are outside the US, you cannot just file the forms yet. You need a digital footprint to satisfy banking and Amazon verification protocols.

1. US Virtual Business Address: You need a real street address (not a PO Box) to receive bank cards and official mail. Services like Anytime Mailbox or iPostal1 are industry standards.
2. US Phone Number: Use apps like OpenPhone Call.com or vyke Number to get a +1 number for 2FA codes.
3. Passport Scan: Ensure you have a valid, high-quality scan of your passport ready for identity verification.

Step 1: Wyoming SOS Business Search

Your LLC name must be unique. If “Amazon Sellers LLC” is already taken, your application will be rejected instantly.

How to check availability:

Go to the Wyoming Secretary of State Business Center.
Enter your desired name in the search bar.
If the result says “No results found,” congratulations—the name is available!

💡 Naming Rule: Your name MUST end with a designator. We recommend sticking to “LLC” or “L.L.C.” to keep it professional. Avoid words like “Bank,” “University,” or “Veteran” as they require special approval.

Step 2: Choose a Registered Agent

This is the most critical step for your privacy. A Registered Agent (RA) is a person or business with a physical address in Wyoming authorized to receive legal documents (Service of Process) for you.

Since you are likely remote or international, you cannot be your own RA. You must hire a commercial service.

Why this is good: The RA’s address goes on the public record, not yours. This shields your home address from marketers and scrapers.

Cost: Expect to pay between $25 and $150 per year.

Step 3: File Articles of Organization

Now, we make it official. You will file the Articles of Organization with the Wyoming Secretary of State.

Requirement	Details
Filing Method	Online (Recommended) or Mail
Filing Fee	$100 (+ $2 convenience fee for online)
Processing Time	Instant (Online) vs. 10-15 Days (Mail)

What to fill out:

LLC Name: The one you checked in Step 1.
Registered Agent: Select your hired agent from their dropdown list.
Organizer: This is the person filing the form. If you hire a service, they sign here (keeping your name off the record entirely).

Step 4: Draft an Operating Agreement

Myth Buster: “Wyoming doesn’t require an Operating Agreement, so I don’t need one.”

Reality: You absolutely need one. While you don’t file it with the state, banks will demand it. This document proves you own the LLC (since your name isn’t on the public Articles).

It outlines:

Ownership percentages (e.g., You = 100%).
Profit distribution.
What happens if the company closes.

Step 5: Get an EIN (The Hardest Part for Non-Residents)

The Employer Identification Number (EIN) is your company’s tax ID. You cannot open a bank account or sell on Amazon without it.

⚠️ Vital for Foreigners: If you do not have a US Social Security Number (SSN), you CANNOT use the online IRS application. It will give you an error reference 101.

How to get an EIN without an SSN (2026 Process):

Download IRS Form SS-4 (PDF).
Line 7b: Write “Foreign” (do not leave blank).
Signature: You must physically sign the form.
Fax: Fax the completed form to the IRS International Division (Fax #: 1-855-641-6935).
Wait: Processing currently takes 15 to 30 business days. The IRS will fax your EIN back to you.

Download SS-4 Template

Step 6: Open a US Business Bank Account

You have your Articles, your Operating Agreement, and your EIN. Now you can unlock the US financial system.

Do not fly to the US to visit a Chase or Wells Fargo branch. They will likely turn you away. Instead, use Fintech Banks designed for remote entrepreneurs.

Mercury

The gold standard for startups. $0 monthly fees, great interface, and wires.

Wise Business

Best for currency exchange if you need to pay suppliers in China or EUR.

Relay Financial

Excellent for teams, issuing multiple virtual debit cards, and profit-first accounting.

Ongoing Compliance (Don’t Forget These!)

Wyoming Annual Report: Due every year on the first day of your anniversary month. Cost: $60.
Form 5472 & 1120: If you are a foreign-owned Single Member LLC, you must file these informational returns with the IRS every year (usually by April 15). Penalty for failure to file is $25,000.
BOI Report: A one-time filing with FinCEN declaring the Beneficial Owners. Check current deadlines based on your formation date.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I live in Pakistan/India/Europe and own a Wyoming LLC?

Yes. 100%. Residency is not a requirement for ownership. You can operate entirely from your laptop.

Do I need a Visa to own a US LLC?

No. Owning a company does not require a visa. However, working physically inside the US does. Managing your LLC from your home country is permitted without a visa.

Is Wyoming better than Delaware?

For small businesses, e-commerce, and holding companies: Yes (cheaper, more private). For companies planning to raise VC funding (like Uber or Airbnb): No (Delaware is preferred by investors).

How do I pay taxes if I am a non-resident?

If your LLC is “pass-through” and you have no physical presence (employees, offices) in the US, you may not owe US income tax on foreign-sourced income. However, you MUST file informational Form 5472 to the IRS every year. Failure to file carries a $25,000 penalty. Always consult a CPA.

Can I use this LLC for Amazon FBA?

Yes. Wyoming LLCs are perfect for Amazon Seller Central. The EIN and bank account you get with this LLC are exactly what Amazon requires to approve your professional seller account.

Does a Virtual Address count as “Physical Presence”?

No. A virtual address or Registered Agent does not create a “Permanent Establishment” (PE) for tax purposes. This is beneficial for avoiding US taxes on non-US income, but always verify your specific situation with a tax pro.

How to Form a Wyoming LLC Remotely?

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