Wyoming is the most popular state for non-US residents forming a US LLC. Low filing fees, strong privacy protections, no state income tax, and a business-friendly legal framework make it the default choice for international founders.
Why Wyoming?
Wyoming offers a combination that no other state matches for non-resident founders. The formation fee is $100, the annual report fee is just $60, and the state does not require member names on public filings. There is no state income tax, no franchise tax, and no requirement to have US residency. Wyoming also has the strongest charging order protection in the US, meaning your LLC assets are better protected from personal creditors.
What you need before filing
To form a Wyoming LLC, you need three things: an LLC name that ends in “LLC” or “Limited Liability Company”, a Registered Agent with a physical address in Wyoming, and the $100 filing fee. You do not need a US Social Security Number, an existing US bank account, or a visa.
Step-by-step formation process
Filing your Wyoming LLC involves submitting the Articles of Organization to the Wyoming Secretary of State at wyobiz.wyo.gov. The form asks for your LLC name, the Registered Agent name and address, whether the LLC is member-managed or manager-managed, and the organizer’s name. Wyoming accepts “any lawful business purpose” as the purpose statement. Online filings are typically approved within 1 to 3 business days.
After formation: what comes next
1. Get an EIN (Tax ID Number) from the IRS. As a non-resident without an SSN, you apply by fax using Form SS-4. Processing takes 4 to 6 weeks.
2. Draft an Operating Agreement that defines how your LLC is managed. Banks will ask for it.
3. Open a US bank account at Mercury, Relay, or Wise Business. All accept foreign-owned Wyoming LLCs.
4. Stay compliant with the annual report ($60) due in your formation anniversary month.
Costs summary
First-year cost: approximately $160 ($100 filing + $60 annual report). A commercial Registered Agent costs $49 to $125 per year. freeLLC offers formation guidance for free, and optional paid services if you need hands-on help.
Wyoming vs other states
New Mexico is cheaper ($50 filing, no annual report) but has less name recognition. Delaware costs more ($90 + $300/year franchise tax) and is mainly relevant for VC-funded companies. For most non-resident founders, Wyoming is the best balance of cost, privacy, and credibility.
Ready to form your Wyoming LLC? Start free with freeLLC — the DIY path costs $0, you only pay the $100 state fee to Wyoming.