Benefits of U.S. Company Incorporation for Foreign Founders
Access to CapitalHaving a presence in the U.S. increases credibility with investors, particularly venture capitalists and angel investors who generally prefer to invest in companies based in the U.S.
Market ExpansionBeing present in the United States allows you to get directly into the marketing of the country that allows you to interact with clients and partners.
Legal ProtectionsIncorporating as a U.S. corporation entails legal safekeeping like limited liability protection to personal assets.
Incorporation Process and Timeline
Choose a Business StructureMovable property C Corporation (C Corp) or Limited Liability Company (LLC) is usually chosen by foreign business individuals. Every structure does have its own taxes and operational requirements.
Select a State for IncorporationDelaware has always been in the limelight for its pro-business laws, however, nevada and Wyoming have their benefits too. It also depends on the choice of taxation, privacy and administrative paperwork etc.
Appoint a Registered AgentIt is necessary, to appoint a registered agent who is capable of receiving legal papers on behalf of the company in the desired state.
File Incorporation DocumentsComplete the formation documents required for a C Corp or LLC, such as Articles of Incorporation or Articles of Organization, and file them with the Secretary of State's office in your state.
Expert Tax FilingCompanyVista is an IRS-licensed certifying acceptance agent specializing in filing expert tax services. Your tax documents will be prepared correctly and filed on time, helping to reduce your tax burden.
Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)It needs to have an EIN which is being issued by Internal Revenue Service (IRS) - a very essential part while taxation and opening a US bank account.
Open a U.S. Bank AccountHow to open a U.S. business bank account. Business bank accounts are essential in the U.S. for most monetary transactions, and it adds to credibility.
Timeline The incorporation process generally takes 1-2 weeks, depending on the state and the efficiency of document preparation and submission.
Visa Options for Foreign Entrepreneurs
It is vital for foreign entrepreneurs to have the right visa for legal operation and stay in the U.S. Several types of visa programs serve business founders.
E-2 Treaty Investor Visa
EligibilityWell-suited to nationals of countries with which a treaty of commerce and navigation is in effect with the United States.
RequirementsReal investment to a true business in the United States; the enterprise must not only be running but also generating profit above that minimally.
ValidityRenewals can be up to 2 years subject to the condition that the business continues to be a going concern.
L-1 Intracompany Transferee Visa
EligibilitySo as for managers, executives, or workers who are transferring from their foreign employer to a U.S. affiliate with specific knowledge regarding that foreign company or firm.
RequirementsMust have been employed continuously with the foreign employer for at least one year within the last three years; the U.S. entity must have a qualifying relationship with that foreign company.
ValidityNew offices are authorized for up to 1 year, and extendable in increments of up to 7 years for managers and executives.
O-1A Visa for Individuals with Extraordinary Ability
EligibilityPeople who are gifted in their field having long-lasting national or international attention have accolades for maintaining something in their trade.
RequirementsA long litany of accolades evidenced by trophies, writings, or substantial monetary compensation.
ValidityOn or before three years, with an option to renew for additional increments of one year each.
International Entrepreneur Parole (IEP)
EligibilityPeople who have fairly owned shares in a new startup based in the U.S. during the past five years or less.
RequirementsThis startup should show it can grow quickly and create jobs as shown by significant investment from U.S. qualified investors or grants from the government.
ValidityIt has been a period of up to a maximum of 30 months coupled with a single extension option of another 30 months.
Process and Timeline for Securing a Visa
Determine EligibilityEvaluate qualifications for the relevant visa category according to personal credentials and business plans.
Prepare DocumentationBring together the essential documents, such as business plans, financial statements, proof of investment, and evidence of qualifications.
File PetitionFile the petition for the visa with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or the appropriate U.S. embassy or consulate.
Attend InterviewIf required, attend the visa interview to evaluate the application authenticity.
Timeline: Processing times range from weeks to months to occur at various times and apply to various visa types, under different situations of individuals.