This article was checked in September 2026. Rules and figures change, so confirm them before you act. We are not lawyers or tax advisers.
The short answer
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can a Pakistani own a US LLC? | Yes, with no US visit or visa. |
| Which state? | New Mexico ($50), Wyoming ($100) or Illinois ($150) are common choices. |
| Beneficial ownership report? | Not needed for US-formed companies under FinCEN's 2026 final rule. |
| Yearly duties? | Registered agent, state report where required, and IRS Form 5472. |
Key takeaways
- Pick a state on running cost, not hype.
- Keep a registered agent at all times.
- File Form 5472 every year. The penalty for missing it is $25,000.
- Check Pakistani rules before you send money to your US company.
What is an LLC?
An LLC (limited liability company) is the most common type of small US company. It is simple to run, and it keeps your personal assets separate from the company's debts. Most Pakistani business owners who open a US company choose an LLC.
Step 1: Choose a state
You can form an LLC in any US state. You do not need to live there or visit it. State fees are one of the main differences:
| State | Filing fee | Yearly state fee | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | $50 | None | Lowest cost. No yearly report. |
| Wyoming | $100 | $60 minimum yearly report | Popular with owners outside the US. |
| Illinois | $150 | $75 yearly report | Best if you want your company registered in the same state as our Chicago office. |
Delaware is famous for US companies, but it mainly suits businesses that plan to raise money from investors. For most exporters, it costs more without a real benefit.
Step 2: Pick a name
Your company name must end in LLC and must not match a company already registered in that state. Avoid names that suggest a government office or a bank.
Step 3: Get a registered agent
Every US state requires a registered agent: a person or company with an address in that state who receives official papers for your company. If you live in Pakistan, you must use a registered agent service.
Step 4: File your formation papers
You file a short form, usually called Articles of Organization, with the state and pay the filing fee. Most states approve it within a few business days.
Step 5: Write an operating agreement
This is the rule book for your company: who owns it and how decisions are made. Most states do not require you to file it, but banks usually ask to see it.
Step 6: Get your EIN
The EIN is your company's US tax number. You need it for banks, payment platforms and buyers. Owners without a US Social Security number apply by fax, mail or phone. See our EIN guide.
Step 7: Open a bank account
With your formation papers, operating agreement, EIN and passport, you can apply for a US business bank account. Approval is up to each bank. See our US bank account guide.
What you must do every year
- File your state's yearly report and pay its fee, if your state has one
- Keep your registered agent active
- File Form 5472 with a pro forma Form 1120 with the IRS, even if the company made no money. See our Form 5472 guide.
Common mistakes
Using a personal bank account for company money. Forgetting Form 5472, which can bring a $25,000 penalty. Choosing Delaware without a reason. Giving banks a mail-only address as your business location without explaining it.
If you prefer not to do this yourself, our US company setup service costs $599 plus the state fee.
What changed in 2025 and 2026
In March 2025, FinCEN removed the beneficial ownership report for companies formed in the US. In August 2026, it made that change permanent. Only foreign companies registered to do business in the US still file. This is one less yearly task for a Pakistani-owned US LLC.
Pakistani rules for owning a US company
The State Bank of Pakistan has rules for investing in a company outside Pakistan. Export companies can set up a subsidiary or branch abroad through their bank, within limits linked to their export earnings. Individuals follow different rules. As a tax resident of Pakistan, you also declare the US company in your wealth statement. Speak to your bank and a Pakistani chartered accountant before you move money.
- 1Choose a stateCost and purpose decide it.
- 2FileArticles of Organization with the state.
- 3AgreementAn operating agreement for banks.
- 4EINForm SS-4 to the IRS, by fax or phone.
- 5ComplyAgent, state report and Form 5472 each year.
Want us to handle this for you?
We are a US office in Chicago for Pakistani exporters. We set up your US company, build your website and find US buyers. You sell to them directly.
Keep reading
- Company, tax and bankingGet an EIN from Pakistan
Company, tax and bankingUS bank account for a Pakistani business
Company, tax and bankingAccept US payments from Pakistan
Common questions
Can a Pakistani register a company in the USA?
Yes. US states allow people from any country to own an LLC, as long as they are not on US sanctions lists. You do not need a visa.
How much does it cost to register a US LLC from Pakistan?
State filing fees range from about $50 to $150 in the states we use most, plus a registered agent. Our full setup service is $599 plus the state fee.
Does a US LLC let me move to America?
No. Owning a US company does not give you a visa or a right to live or work in the US.
How much does a US LLC cost from Pakistan?
State fees run from $50 to $150 in the most popular states, plus a registered agent. Our full setup is $599 plus the state fee.
Do I need an ITIN to form a US LLC?
No. You can form the LLC and get an EIN without an SSN or ITIN.