A non-resident from Pakistan can start a US business entirely remotely in 2026 by forming a US LLC, obtaining an EIN, opening a US business bank account, and setting up payment processing — a process that typically takes 2 to 3 weeks from start to finish and requires no US visit, visa, or Social Security Number.
Step 1: Decide on Your Business Structure
For most Pakistani freelancers, consultants, and e-commerce sellers, a single-member LLC is the right starting structure due to its simplicity and pass-through tax treatment. Those with business partners should consider a multi-member LLC, and those with concrete plans to raise venture capital should evaluate a Delaware C-Corporation instead.
Step 2: Choose Your State
| State | Best For | Total Cost (via LLCforPakistan.com) |
|---|---|---|
| Wyoming | Most freelancers and e-commerce sellers | $300 |
| New Mexico | Lowest long-term cost, no annual report | $250 |
| Delaware | Startups planning to raise investment | $290 |
Step 3: Form Your LLC
LLCforPakistan.com files your Articles of Organization with the chosen state, with most approvals completed within 1 to 5 business days. This step requires only your name, address, and basic business information — no US visit or physical signature is required.
Step 4: Obtain Your EIN
Your EIN (Federal Tax ID) is applied for immediately after LLC approval via IRS Form SS-4, since the instant online EIN system is restricted to Social Security Number holders. This typically takes 1 to 2 weeks and is included free with every LLCforPakistan.com LLC package.
Step 5: Open a US Business Bank Account
With your LLC documents and EIN confirmation letter in hand, you can apply for a US business bank account online through Mercury, Wise Business, or Relay — all of which accept non-resident applicants without requiring a Social Security Number or US visit.
Step 6: Set Up Payment Processing
Once your bank account is active, you can apply for Stripe or PayPal Business accounts using your EIN and US bank account, enabling you to invoice US clients directly or accept payments from e-commerce platforms and marketplaces.
Step 7: Determine If You Need an ITIN
Most remote freelancers do not need an ITIN immediately, but LLC owners with a personal US tax filing obligation, US-sourced rental or dividend income, or specific treaty-related needs should apply through an IRS Certified Acceptance Agent like LLCforPakistan.com, which avoids the need to mail your original passport to the IRS.
Step 8: Understand Your Ongoing Compliance Obligations
Once operational, your US LLC has recurring annual obligations: a state annual report (except in New Mexico), registered agent renewal, Form 5472 filing (regardless of income level), and a personal US tax return if you have Effectively Connected Income — alongside declaring income to Pakistan's FBR.
Complete Timeline Summary
| Step | Typical Timeframe |
|---|---|
| LLC formation and state approval | 1-5 business days |
| EIN registration | 1-2 weeks after LLC approval |
| US bank account approval | 1-5 business days after applying |
| Total time to fully operational business | 2-3 weeks |
Common Mistakes When Starting Out
- Choosing a state based on price alone without considering bank acceptance or annual costs
- Applying for a bank account before the EIN confirmation letter has actually arrived
- Assuming an ITIN is required immediately when most freelancers don't need one right away
- Treating LLC formation as a one-time task rather than the start of ongoing annual compliance
- Not budgeting for hidden fees some formation services charge separately for EIN or the Operating Agreement
Real-Life Example
A Pakistani graphic designer in Karachi decides to start serving international clients professionally. Within three weeks, working with LLCforPakistan.com, she forms a Wyoming LLC, receives her EIN, opens a Mercury bank account, and sets up Stripe for client invoicing — fully operational without ever leaving Karachi or needing a US visa.
This guide reflects general timelines and requirements as of 2026. Specific circumstances, including ECI status and compliance needs, vary by individual. Consult LLCforPakistan.com for guidance specific to your situation.