If you're a non-US resident looking to accept online payments or sell in the US market, registering a US company can unlock access to platforms like Stripe, PayPal, and Amazon. These platforms typically require a legal US business entity, along with a US bank account, tax ID, and mailing address.

In this guide, we’ll walk through the steps of company registration in USA, explain how it relates to these major platforms, and help you avoid common pitfalls as a global entrepreneur.

Why Register a US Company for Stripe, PayPal, or Amazon?

Many online platforms restrict access to non-resident individuals or companies from certain countries. By setting up a US-based entity, you can:

• Get full access to Stripe US for credit card processing

• Use PayPal US for lower fees and better integration

• Open a US Amazon Seller Central account

• Build trust with US-based customers

• Tap into the world’s largest eCommerce and fintech ecosystem

Step-by-Step: How to Register a US Company as a Non-Resident

Whether you're from India, the UK, Africa, or anywhere else, the process to register a company in USA is accessible. Here's how it works:

1. Choose a Business Structure

For most international founders, a Limited Liability Company (LLC) is the best option.

Why LLC?

• Easy to set up and maintain

• Pass-through taxation (no corporate tax at the entity level)

• Accepted by Stripe, PayPal, and Amazon

In some cases, a C Corporation (especially in Delaware) is preferred by startups seeking funding, but for most eCommerce and SaaS businesses, an LLC is sufficient.

2. Pick a State for Incorporation

You can incorporate in any US state, but popular choices for non-residents include:

• Wyoming – Low fees, no state income tax, privacy-friendly

• Delaware – Well-known globally, used by many startups and investors

• Florida / Texas – Popular for certain industries or if you have a local partner

If you don’t plan to open a physical office, Wyoming and Delaware are usually the most cost-effective.

3. Hire a Registered Agent

Every US company must have a registered agent in the state of formation. This is a local person or company authorized to receive legal documents.

Most incorporation services offer registered agent services for a small annual fee.

4. File Articles of Organization

This is the formal paperwork that creates your LLC or Corporation. It includes:

• Company name

• Business address (can be a virtual office)

• Registered agent details

• Member/manager names (optional in some states)

Once filed and approved, you'll receive a Certificate of Formation (or Incorporation), which you'll need for banking and tax purposes.

5. Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number)

This is a Tax ID issued by the IRS, required to:

• Open a US bank account

• Apply for Stripe or PayPal

• File taxes

You can apply for an EIN online or through a form (SS-4). If you're a non-resident with no SSN or ITIN, you may need to apply via fax or hire a service provider.

6. Get a US Mailing Address or Virtual Office

Stripe, PayPal, and Amazon will typically ask for a US address. You can use:

• A virtual mailbox

• Registered agent's business address (if allowed)

• A commercial virtual office address

Make sure your address accepts mail and provides scanning/forwarding options.

7. Open a US Bank Account or Virtual Account

You need a US business bank account to receive payments from Stripe or PayPal. Options include:

• In-person banks (e.g., Bank of America, Chase) – require physical presence

• Online business banks (e.g., Mercury, Wise, Relay) – accept international founders with proper documentation

Most non-residents use Mercury or Wise Business as a fast, remote-friendly option.

Registering for Stripe

To use Stripe US, you must have:

• A US-based LLC or Corporation

• US EIN (Employer Identification Number)

• US phone number (optional but helpful)

• US bank account

• US mailing address

After registration, you can integrate Stripe into your website or platform to accept international payments.

Stripe supports LLCs owned by non-US residents—no need for a US partner or director.

Registering for PayPal US

PayPal is more selective and sometimes harder to set up as a foreigner, but it’s still possible with the right documentation.

Requirements for PayPal Business:

• US company (LLC or Corp)

• US bank account

• EIN (for tax purposes)

• Business email and phone number

• Matching information on your business website

Once approved, you can send and receive payments globally and connect PayPal to your eCommerce store.

Registering for Amazon Seller Central (US)

Amazon requires:

• US company with EIN

• US bank account (or international account that accepts USD)

• Phone number and email address

• Government ID for verification

• Business address and utility bill (in some cases)

If you’re planning to sell on Amazon.com as an international seller, forming a US company boosts your credibility and makes account approval easier.

Ongoing Compliance: What You Need to Maintain

After company incorporation in USA, you'll need to keep your entity compliant. Key tasks include:

• Annual state filings – Varies by state; Wyoming and Delaware have simple requirements

• Federal tax filing – Even if you don’t owe tax, you may need to file Form 5472 and other IRS documents

• Bank and platform verification – Keep your address and contact info updated

Hiring an accountant or compliance service can help you stay on track.

Summary Table: Requirements for Stripe, PayPal, Amazon

FAQs

1. Do I need to be a US citizen to register a company in the USA?
No. Anyone from any country can register a company in the USA. You do not need a Social Security Number (SSN) or US residency. Most non-residents start with an LLC.

2. How long does it take to register a US company for Stripe or PayPal?
If you use an incorporation service, the process can take 1–2 business days. Getting an EIN may take 3–15 days depending on the method. You can usually apply for Stripe or PayPal within a week after formation.

3. Can I operate the company remotely from outside the US?
Yes. You can run your US company entirely online. Many non-resident founders use virtual offices, online banks, and global payment tools without ever visiting the US.

Final Thoughts

Creating a US company is one of the most effective ways to access powerful platforms like Stripe, PayPal, and Amazon. With low costs, quick processing, and access to global payment infrastructure, it’s a smart move for entrepreneurs, freelancers, SaaS founders, and eCommerce sellers worldwide.

By following the steps above, you can complete your company registration in USA with confidence—and unlock new revenue opportunities in the world’s largest online market.