Opening a company in the United States can be an interesting opportunity for foreign investors looking to expand their business in the American market. 

We know that opening a company in Brazil is a bureaucratic and time-consuming process. 

But what about in the United States? 

Step by Step on How to Open a Business in the USA

Who can open a company in the USA?

Anyone, regardless of nationality, can legally start a business in the United States, provided they meet the correct legal and regulatory requirements and have the proper work visa status or authorization to work in the country.

To open a business in the USA, you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid Tax ID number, which can be obtained by applying for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service.

Tax ID is used by any individual to identify him/herself to the IRS if that person does not have a Social Security Number.

In addition, it is important to obtain the necessary licenses and permits to operate legally, have a physical address in the USA, and a business bank account in the name of the company.

Types of Companies

The first step in opening a company in the USA is to decide what type of company you want to open. 

The most common types of companies in the USA are LLC (Limited Liability Company) and Corporations(C-Corp or S-Corp). 

The LLC is a company that offers limited protection to shareholders, while corporations offer unlimited protection to shareholders. 

If you choose an LLC, you should be aware that the owners are not personally liable for the debts and legal obligations of the company. And this is why this type of company is one of the most used by people, because the owners' assets are safe from any problems the company may have in the future.

Now, if you go with a C-Corp, this type of company pays taxes on profits and then shareholders are taxed on the dividends and capital gains they receive.

An S-Corp , on the other hand, is a company taxed as a pass-through company, and its partners are taxed as individuals on the profits and dividends received.

Choose the state in which you want to register your company:

Once you have decided on the type of company, it is time to choose the state in which you want to register your company. 

American law is federalist and each state has its own rules regarding taxes and starting a business.

Choose a name for your company:

The company name is very important, because it is the trademark that the company will use to represent its products or services. 

You will need to check that the name you have chosen is not already in use by another company, and then register the name with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Get your EIN (Employer Identification Number)

The EIN (Employer Identification Number) is your tax identification number with the IRS that you will need to open a bank account and pay taxes in the US. It can be obtained from the IRS website.

Register your company:

After choosing the name and obtaining the EIN, it is time to register the company. The registration must be done at the office of the Secretary of State of the state you have chosen. Depending on which state you choose to open your company in, you may or may not have to pay additional fees.

Business License and Bank Account

Most businesses in the USA need a business license to operate legally. The laws and requirements vary by state and type of business. 

Opening a bank account is the last important step, because a company established in the United States needs to have an account established in the US territory. This account can be opened at a domestic or international bank, and it is important to check whether the bank offers this type of service to foreigners.

Investing in the USA is not the only way to get a green card

If you want to migrate to the USA, or start a business on American soil, know that opting for an investor visa (EB-5) is not the only viable way to get your green card.

If you have a degree and more than five years of experience in your field, or have extraordinary or exceptional skills in your professional field, you may be eligible for a green card in the EB-2 category!

Professions like medicine, engineering, programming, nursing, psychology, and aeronautics are on the rise in the United States!

Want to know if you are eligible? Fill out our free form and we will contact you as soon as possible.