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Americas

United States

The world's largest economy. Foreign founders typically incorporate in Delaware (C-Corp) for venture funding or Wyoming (LLC) for small business.

Region

Americas

Capital

Washington, D.C.

Currency

USD

Language

English

Setup time

1–7 days (state-dependent)

Tax

Federal corporate tax 21% + state taxes

Company types

How businesses are typically structured in United States.

C-Corporation

Separate taxable entity; preferred by VC investors. Standard for startups raising funding.

Best for

Venture-backed startups, Delaware incorporation

Liability

Limited

S-Corporation

Pass-through taxation; restricted to U.S. shareholders only.

Best for

U.S.-owned SMEs

Limited Liability Company (LLC)

Pass-through by default; flexible governance; popular with foreign owners.

Best for

Small business, holding, real estate

Sole Proprietorship / Partnership

Simplest structures with unlimited personal liability.

Best for

Freelancers, micro-businesses

Visa pathways

The most relevant options for founders, employees, investors, and long-stay residents.

L-1 Intracompany Transferee

Up to 7 years (L-1A) / 5 years (L-1B)

Executives, managers (L-1A) or specialised knowledge (L-1B) transferring from a foreign affiliate.

Requirements

1 year of qualifying employment abroad

E-2 Treaty Investor

Renewable indefinitely while business active

Nationals of treaty countries making a substantial U.S. investment.

Requirements

Treaty nationality + at-risk investment (often $100k+)

O-1 Extraordinary Ability

Up to 3 years, renewable

Individuals with extraordinary ability in sciences, arts, business, athletics.

Requirements

Evidence of national/international acclaim

H-1B Specialty Occupation

Up to 6 years

Roles requiring a bachelor's degree or equivalent.

Requirements

Annual lottery; employer sponsorship

EB-5 Investor Green Card

Permanent

Permanent residency via investment.

Requirements

$800k (TEA) or $1.05M investment + 10 jobs

🇬🇷 Greece

Canada 🇨🇦