This guide provides Vietnamese entrepreneurs with a complete roadmap for forming a US LLC in 2026. We'll cover the essential steps, tax implications, banking options, and common pitfalls. Our resource on how to register an LLC in Alabama breaks this down further. Forming a US LLC can unlock global opportunities, and with Lovie, the process is streamlined with AI-powered assistance.
US Business Formation for International Founders enables non-US residents to legally form and operate US business entities with full compliance. Key components include foreign founder requirements, non-US resident formation path, and ITIN application process, each playing a critical role in the international business formation process. Understanding foreign-owned LLC structure and FIRPTA compliance is essential, as these factors directly impact EIN without SSN procedure.
When evaluating international business formation options, factors such as international banking setup and US tax treaty advantages should inform your decision-making process.
A US LLC provides a platform to engage with international customers and markets more easily than a Vietnamese entity, especially for online businesses.
Integrate with popular US payment gateways like Stripe and PayPal, which can be challenging to do directly from Vietnam. Build internationally scalable tech businesses outside Vietnam's regulatory framework, appealing to global investors and partners.
Select a unique name for your LLC that complies with state requirements. In Delaware and Wyoming, check name availability on the Secretary of State's website.
A registered agent receives official legal and tax documents on behalf of your LLC. Lovie provides registered agent services. File the Articles of Organization with the chosen state (e.g., Delaware or Wyoming). This document officially creates your LLC. Lovie can handle this
LLCs are typically pass-through entities, meaning profits and losses are passed through to the members' individual tax returns. However, as a Vietnamese resident, you may be subject to US taxes on your share of the LLC's income.
Vietnam taxes its residents on their worldwide income. Consult with a tax advisor to understand how your US LLC income will be taxed in Vietnam. Unfortunately, there is no tax treaty between the US and Vietnam. This means you may be subject to double taxation on your income. Careful tax plannin
Non-U.S. residents forming a U.S. business may need an ITIN — the IRS provides the official application process. See IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
International founders can follow the SBA's official registration guide for establishing a U.S. business presence. See SBA Register Your Business.
Follow this interactive roadmap to understand the typical timeline and key milestones for Vietnam-based founders forming a US entity. Each step includes estimated processing times and requirements specific to international founders. Start your US formation with Lovie
Choose entity type (LLC or Delaware C-Corp)
Select registered agent service
File formation documents (3-5 business days)
Obtain EIN from IRS (requires ITIN or SSN)
Open US business bank account
Set up compliance calendar
Register for state tax obligations
Start your formation with Lovie — $29 one-time, plus your state's filing fee.
State-specific formation guides, cost breakdowns, compliance checklists, and expert comparisons — updated for 2026.