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Setting up a company in the United States?

Learn how to do it legally and compliantly:
21-0% corporation tax
International credibility
High legal certainty
Access to US banks
You can reduce your tax burden legally. We will be happy to advise you in detail and offer you a free initial consultation.
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Pros and cons of setting up a company abroad

If you relocate your residence:
  • Your home country may tax certain assets when you move abroad  

  • Living in the U.S. can involve broader tax and reporting obligations than in many EU countries 

Without emigrating:
  • A US company does not in itself change your tax position in Europe

  • Ownership levels can affect how profits are taxed 

  • Proper documentation and real business activity are important 

What makes the United States attractive as a business location?

The United States is a major global business hub with a large internal market, strong legal system, and access to deep capital markets.

Foreign ownership is generally permitted, and companies can often be incorporated quickly. US structures are widely used for operating businesses, holding companies, and investor-backed ventures, particularly where credibility and access to US customers or investors are important.

Tax overview

  • Federal corporate tax: 21%
  • State taxes: vary by state (in some cases low or 0%)
  • Withholding tax on dividends: generally 30%, often reduced by treaty
  • No nationwide VAT 

US entity types such as LLCs and corporations allow flexible structuring, clear separation of risk, and are commonly used in international setups. A US company is generally well accepted by banks, investors, and business partners.

Key considerations

  • Profits may be taxed both at company level and when distributed as dividends
  • Operating in multiple states can involve additional administrative requirements
  • If the company is managed from abroad, tax rules in your home country may still apply
  • US assets can trigger additional tax considerations for non-residents

Contact us for an individual review of your structure and possible alternatives.

FAQs

Is it easy to obtain a VAT number?

There is no nationwide VAT system in the United States.

Is it easy to obtain an EIN?

The US tax authority can issue an EIN immediately online for eligible applicants.

Is remote incorporation possible?

Yes. Incorporation and most administrative steps can be handled remotely. In practice, opening a bank account is usually the most time-consuming step.

Which locations worldwide are best suited to paying as little tax as possible?
Tax Burden Banking Reputation Bureaucracy Legal Security Costs
USA 21-0%
from EUR 1,900
Singapore 0%
from EUR 2,950
Hong Kong 0%
from EUR 1,900
Cyprus 15%
from EUR 1,900
Malta 5%
from EUR 2,500
Ireland 12,5%
from EUR 1,950
Trust 0%
from EUR 4,900
England 25-19%
from EUR 1,000

Tax compliance in your country of residence

Your country of residence may impose tax and reporting obligations for foreign business activities and dividend income, in some cases even if profits are not distributed.

Depending on your personal circumstances, a suitable holding structure may be necessary to comply with tax rules and avoid unnecessary tax risks.

To determine which jurisdiction and structure best meet your requirements, please use the contact form and describe your plans in as much detail as possible.

Our advisers will be happy to review your case and advise you accordingly.

1.
Analyse your needs
We assess your situation to define goals, risk tolerance, tax exposure and asset-protection priorities.
2.
Carry out a location analysis
We compare potential jurisdictions based on tax law, banking access, compliance requirements and your country of residence.
3.
Incorporate the company and, if needed, set up a foundation
Open bank and brokerage accounts and, where required, implement the asset-management structure

Our advantages

Tax optimisation
Tax optimisation
Reduce your tax burden legally by 50–85% domestically and internationally.
Sustainable asset protection
Sustainable asset protection
Protect your wealth over the long term from economic and legal risks.
Cross-border business models
Cross-border business models
Develop international corporate structures for greater economic freedom.
Corporate structuring & company formation
Corporate structuring & company formation
Optimise your corporate and shareholding structures for growth and tax savings.
Foundations & wealth management
Foundations & wealth management
Use tailored foundation structures for future generations.
Emigration & exit taxation
Emigration & exit taxation
We support your change of residence and help you avoid exit taxation.
Personal advice & implementation
Personal advice & implementation
Individual solutions with personal support from analysis through to implementation.
Exclusive expert network
Exclusive expert network
Access to experienced tax advisers, solicitors and international business experts.

How our clients have successfully reduced their tax burden with our strategies

Comprehensive personal advice with a great result!
Conversation in Nice with our long-standing client Marco about our collaboration to date.
Marco V.
Marco V.
Conversation with Andreas Schneider
Andreas relocated to Switzerland many years ago and shares his experiences of Switzerland and of us as his trusted partner throughout the journey.
Andreas S.

W-V Law Firm LLP

Your partner for corporate law, foundations, banking and expansion
Successfully established in the market since 2013.
Advised and supported more than 2,000 clients
Advised and supported more than 2,000 clients
Leading law firm in the European region
Leading law firm in the European region
Always solution-focused and personally available
Always solution-focused and personally available