How to open an LLC in the United States from Colombia

Are you a Colombian entrepreneur and would like to have your own company in the United States without leaving Colombia? Let me tell you that opening an LLC (Limited Liability Company) can be an excellent option. LLCs offer a combination of flexibility, legal protection, and tax benefits that make them attractive to foreign entrepreneurs.

What is an LLC?

A Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a legal structure in the United States that combines the flexibility of a partnership with the limited liability protection of a corporation. This means that, as an owner (or "member," as they are called in the context of an LLC), your personal liability for the debts and claims against your company is limited. In other words, your personal assets such as your house, your car, and your personal savings are protected.

An LLC is attractive to small business owners and startups because it is relatively simple in terms of management, tax flexibility, and, of course, the aforementioned asset protection. Unlike corporations, LLCs allow profits and losses to be passed directly to members without being subject to corporate income tax. Additionally, LLCs offer great flexibility in management and fewer formalities compared to corporations, making them ideal for international businesses looking to establish themselves with a simple but effective structure.

Reasons to Open an LLC in the United States from Colombia

The idea of opening an LLC in the United States can be especially attractive to Colombian entrepreneurs for several reasons:

Legal and economic stability: The United States offers legal and economic stability not found in many Latin American countries. Laws and regulations are clear and predictable.
Flexibility and ease of registration: You do not need to travel to the United States to register your LLC. You can do it 100% online from Colombia.
Tax benefits: LLCs do not pay income tax in the United States. This is a great advantage compared to Colombian companies, which must pay 35% of their profits in taxes.
Protection of personal assets: As mentioned, an LLC offers protection of your personal assets from the debts and obligations of your company. This is crucial for entrepreneurs who want to secure their personal wealth.
Access to new markets: Registering an LLC in the U.S. can give you access to one of the largest and most lucrative markets in the world, expanding your business opportunities and growth potential.

Steps to Open an LLC as a Colombian

Choose the name: Choose a unique name for your LLC and check its availability in the state where you will register it.
Choose the state: Some states offer advantages such as anonymity, low bureaucracy, or legal protection. The most popular states for LLCs are Wyoming, Delaware, and New Mexico. Each state has its own laws and fees for LLCs, so you should choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.
Designate a registered agent: You will need a Registered Agent authorized to receive legal and tax notifications on behalf of your LLC. The registered agent must have a physical address in the state where you register your LLC and be available during business hours.
Complete the documentation: Fill out the necessary forms and submit the required documentation. You can do this online or through a specialized service.
Apply for the EIN: Also known as the Employer Identification Number, it is essential for opening a bank account and operating legally in the United States. You can apply for it with the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) using Form SS-4. The EIN will be assigned to you in a few days or weeks.
Open a bank account: A bank account is essential for managing your LLC's money and receiving and sending payments. However, most traditional banks in the United States require the representative of the LLC to appear in person at a branch, which can be a problem if you are in Colombia. Therefore, neobanks arise, which are online financial services that offer accounts with U.S. banking data, without the need to travel.

What are Neobanks?

Imagine managing all your banking needs from your cell phone, without queues, without excessive paperwork, and without ever having to visit a physical branch. This is exactly what neobanks offer. These online banks, emerge as an innovative response to modern financial needs. Neobanks operate exclusively online, allowing entrepreneurs and individuals to enjoy a simple and quite accessible banking experience.

Advantages for Colombian entrepreneurs

Ease of access: Ideal for Colombians looking to open and manage bank accounts in the U.S. without the need to travel or reside in the country.
Low cost: Neobanks tend to offer lower fees than traditional banks, as they operate with lower overhead costs.
Speed: Opening accounts and making transactions can be completed in a matter of minutes, offering unmatched efficiency.

How long does it take to open an LLC in the USA from Colombia?

The time to open an LLC in the United States from Colombia can vary, but here is a general idea of what you can expect:

Document preparation: This can take a few days, depending on how quickly you gather and complete the necessary documentation.
Submission and registration: Once the documentation is submitted, the processing time by the chosen state can vary from a few days to several weeks. Some states offer expedited processing options for an additional fee.
Obtaining the EIN: Applying for and receiving your Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS usually takes about two weeks, although it could be faster if you choose to do it online.
Opening a bank account: With your LLC registered and your EIN in hand, opening a bank account can be a matter of days, especially if you opt for a neobank.

Incorporating your LLC in the United States from Colombia can be a simpler and more straightforward process thanks to Wayfrontier. We facilitate the creation of your company in the U.S. without the need to travel or have a visa, in addition to a 100% online process, that advises you with all the procedures you can imagine, eliminating geographical barriers and simplifying legal formalities.

As you can see, setting up an LLC from Colombia is a relatively simple process. In addition, it provides many benefits, without the need to leave your country. If you are interested in this process or need advice, do not hesitate to contact Wayfrontier, a legaltech specialized in the creation and maintenance of companies in the USA. Don't wait any longer, because creating your company in the USA has never been so easy.