How do I incorporate a company in the US, and do I need to live there?

Question

Accepted Answer

Quick answer. No — you don't need to live in the US or be a citizen to set up a US company. You can do it remotely as a non-resident. You'll need a registered agent in your chosen state, and then you apply for a tax ID (EIN) and a bank account. How it works. Pick a state (see the next question) and a structure — startups raising US venture capital almost always use a C-Corporation. Appoint a registered agent (a service in that state that receives official mail — required, since you're not local). File the incorporation, then apply for an EIN (the company's tax ID; non-residents can get one without a US social security number). Finally, open a US bank account — historically hard remotely, but several fintech options now make it possible. Important for Indian founders. If you (or your Indian company) are investing into or setting up the US entity, that's a cross-border transaction governed by India's FEMA rules (see the FEMA question), and it may need reporting. The structure — for example, whether you “flip” an Indian company under a US parent — has tax and regulatory consequences. This is one to plan with a professional, not to improvise. Our honest take. Setting up a US company from India is very doable, but the structure decision (and the FEMA/tax side) is where founders get into trouble. Get the setup mechanics done cheaply, but take real advice on the structure.