العربية• International Business Setup
In the US you start by choosing the state, not the company
US companies are formed under the law of a particular state, not at federal level. So the file starts by choosing the state and the form (LLC or Corporation) based on the activity and funding plan, then obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS.
You deal with LegalIn alone, from Egypt. We handle the in-country steps through our network of offices there, so you do not need to engage another firm.
• Is this route for you?
- Founders targeting customers or platforms in the US market.
- Startups planning to raise investment.
- Egyptian companies that want a US entity for contracting and invoicing.
• Foreign ownership and investment regime
Full ownership without a US partner
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Ownership | 100% without a US partner; no prior federal investment licence for ordinary incorporation |
| Basis | The law of the state of incorporation |
| EIN | A non-resident can obtain one without a Social Security number, but not through the online application; it is done by phone, fax or mail |
| Exception | The Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS) reviews certain foreign investments for national security, mostly acquisitions rather than forming a new LLC |
| Visas and residence | A US company does not automatically give a visa or residence |
• How we handle the file
From Egypt to incorporation
- Defining the activity, customer location and funding plan.
- Choosing the state and the form: LLC or Corporation.
- Registering the company in the state.
- Obtaining the EIN.
- Arranging annual state filings and federal tax obligations.
• Before we start
What we need to know
- Your exact activity, and who and where your customers are.
- The partners and their nationalities, and whether the investor is an individual or a company.
- Whether you need a physical office or staff in the US.
- How the new entity relates to your company in Egypt, if any.
This tells us the route and the document list; documents vary with the activity and the partners’ nationalities.
• Common pitfalls
What can delay the file?
Choosing a state because it is “the most popular”, not because it suits the activity and customers.
Choosing an LLC when the funding plan needs a Corporation, or the reverse.
Delaying the EIN, which most later steps require.
Neglecting annual state filings and federal tax obligations.
• FAQ
Questions we often hear before setting up in the US
Can I incorporate without travelling?
Yes, in most cases.
Do I need a Social Security number?
Not to obtain an EIN.
Do I need a firm in the US?
No. You deal with LegalIn, and we coordinate with our network of offices there.
• Related routes
Your file may also involve
• Your next step
Considering the US?
Send us your activity and partners’ details. We review the right route and get back to you on the next step.
Submitting a request does not create an engagement with the firm. Your data is handled in line with our privacy policy.