I looked through the 'Starting a business as a foreign national' article which made clear to me that it is possible to set up a business in the US even though I'm not a US citizen or live there. However there are several practical issues I could not find information on or am confused about.
1. The article said that there must be a 'registered agent' in the US, that can receive documents etc. While I do know someone there who can help out when necessary, what I wanted to know is - is it possible to go through all 10 steps necessary to start the business myself, or does the agent need to get involved? If so, how much/for which steps?
2. Does this apply to all types of incorporation?
3. Does taxation vary between states? If so, assuming there is flexibility on which state I can start the business in, is there a matrix of the levels of tax payable in each state?
4. Should I choose to move to the US, does any type of corp structure help me get a VISA? Or does any type of structure make it more difficult for me?
I'm sure I have more questions but that would be a good starting point :)
WhitePheonix,
I can try to answer some of your questions.
1. For the registered agent it is more about the mailing address. You have to have some type of presence in the US. You can do the 10 Steps, but it helps to find a registered agent first.
3. Taxation does vary between states. You will need to figure out which state taxes apply to you and how those are applied and paid for. The ease of getting all this information really depends on the state.
4. I am not sure about the Visa questions, speaking with the State Department would give you more accurate information.
JimD
JimD | Former Moderator | 9/9/2010 - 1:10 pm
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