If you are non-US business, and/or not a US resident/citizen, then I don't think you can register a tradename in US.   I think first step is to start some form of US corporate entity (which I believe you dont have to be a citizen/resident yourself, but check with an attorney of course), then you can apply for a trademark or tradename.   Starting a business in US is not expensive, but maintaince can be expensive (if i had to throw a number probably $2-$3k / year to do it right). So the applying tradename might not be that expensive, but rest would.   An alternative you have is to find a US partner company, get into an agreement with them for them to register the tradename (with understanding that you have the rights to get that tradename just like any other property).

Hi Gpap, Are you an non-US citizen? If so, follow these steps to doing a business in the USA and starting a business as a foreign national.