In this article
How long does it take to start a US company from outside the US? For a foreigner or non-resident, the LLC itself can be approved in days, but the whole journey from the first form to a working bank account takes longer. This guide gives a realistic timeline for each stage and shows what slows things down. To start now, see our LLC registration in the USA for non-residents.
Key takeaways
- State approval of the LLC takes from a few business days to several weeks, depending on the state and the speed you choose.
- The EIN can take from a few days to a few weeks when the owner has no SSN.
- The bank account is usually the slowest part and depends on the bank, not on us.
- Most delays come from name conflicts, missing documents and bank checks.
A realistic timeline
| Stage | Typical time |
|---|---|
| Choose state, name and package | Same day |
| File the Articles of Organization | Submitted within a business day of your order |
| State approval | From about 3 business days (expedited) to about 4 weeks (standard), depending on the state |
| Operating agreement | Same day once the LLC is approved |
| EIN from the IRS | Days to weeks without an SSN |
| Business bank or payment account | Days to several weeks, subject to the bank |
The state times above are the ranges we plan for with our packages: standard filing takes about 4 weeks, and expedited filing about 3 business days. Each state differs, and a state can run slower in busy periods. We confirm the time for your state at checkout.
Stage 1: Filing with the state
This is the part you can speed up. Most states offer an expedited option for an extra fee. Our Standard and Premium packages include a 3-day filing, while Basic uses standard timing. A name that is already taken sends the application back, so have a second choice ready. See how to choose an LLC name.
Stage 2: The EIN
The EIN can only be applied for after the LLC exists. A foreign owner without an SSN applies by fax or post, which is slower than the online form open to US residents. Read how to get an EIN without an SSN.
Stage 3: The bank account
Banks and payment companies run their own checks on non-resident owners, and approval is never certain. Having the formation papers, EIN letter, operating agreement, passport and proof of address ready avoids most back-and-forth. Read Payoneer for a US LLC.
What slows things down
- A company name that is not available or does not follow state rules.
- Details that differ between your passport and the application.
- Choosing a state with long processing times. See which state is good for company registration in the USA.
- Waiting on the bank for extra documents.
How to move faster
- Prepare the documents first. See documents foreigners need to form a US LLC.
- Choose expedited filing if you are in a hurry.
- Have two or three name options ready.
- Apply for the bank account as soon as the EIN arrives.
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to register an LLC as a foreigner?
The state filing alone takes from a few business days to a few weeks. Add the EIN and bank account and the full setup is commonly a few weeks.
Can I form an LLC in one day?
A few states approve very quickly, but a one-day approval is not something to count on.
Do I need to be in the US while waiting?
No. Everything is done online, so you can stay in your own country.
Start the clock
See the LLC registration service for non-residents and pick the filing speed that suits you.
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Written by the Jupiter Filing team
Jupiter Filing helps founders from any country form and run a US company online: formation, EIN, registered agent and yearly compliance. This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice.
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