How to open a US LLC from Serbia

For Serbian entrepreneurs, registering a business in the United States offers access to one of the world’s largest and most dynamic markets. The Limited Liability Company (LLC) is a popular choice of company structure, as it provides flexibility and simplicity for both American and foreign business owners. 

You don’t need to live in the US to form an LLC. Entrepreneurs from Serbia can register and manage their US company entirely from home. However, it’s essential for Serbian business owners to understand the process as well as the legal, tax, and compliance requirements. In this article, we outline the steps and benefits of setting up a US LLC as a Serbian resident.

What is an LLC?

LLC stands for Limited Liability Company. A US LLC is a popular business structure in the United States, especially for small and medium-sized businesses. It offers two core advantages:

1. Personal asset protection – your personal assets (like your home or savings) are protected if the business faces lawsuits or debts.
2. Pass-through taxation – instead of the company paying corporate tax, profits (or losses) pass through to the owners, who report them on their personal tax returns. In many cases, non-resident owners do not owe personal taxes in the US.

It doesn’t require a minimum capital, lengthy registration steps, or in-person visits to notaries and institutions. Everything can be done remotely, with far less bureaucracy than you would imagine. 

Key benefits of US LLCs for Serbian entrepreneurs

Before opening an LLC in the US, it’s important to understand the real benefits versus what might just be marketing hype or unrealistic promises.

If you’re from Serbia, a US LLC most often brings:

• Easier access to Stripe, Pay Pal, US banks, and fast international transactions
• Much better reputation and trust with foreign partners and clients (US LLC on the invoice)
• Better legal protection (“limited liability”) – the owner isn’t personally responsible for the company’s debts
• Easier partnership and investment opportunities , and the ability to scale/sell the business more easily
• Less paperwork – administration is a lot simpler (annual reports, less frequent bureaucracy)
• Operational flexibility – ownership transfers, management changes, and even company dissolution can be handled quickly and remotely with simple documentation, without notaries or complex procedures
• Simplified digital asset management – easier handling of domains, software licenses and digital assets without Serbian restrictions

This structure is often chosen because it strikes the right balance between legal protection, tax efficiency, and ease of management, whether you’re operating locally or internationally.

Access to banking and credit

For Serbian entrepreneurs, forming a US-based LLC offers an opportunity to access the American market, enhancing your credibility and providing access to a large consumer base. A US LLC can also facilitate opening a US bank account and establishing business credit.

These are essential for managing international transactions, currency conversions, and obtaining credit lines or loans. A strong US banking presence can streamline global business operations and build financial stability. 

Note that because Serbia does not have as close ties to the US as other countries, some banks may have additional requirements or more stringent compliance checks.

Serbian banks typically charge high fees for international transactions, often delay payment processing by 1–2 days or more, and require additional documentation to verify the source of funds. This creates cash flow issues and forces entrepreneurs to spend time on paperwork instead of focusing on business growth.

Why open a US LLC from Serbia?

Setting up a company in the EU often comes with high costs and complex procedures, making it an unrealistic option for many Serbian entrepreneurs. At the same time, Serbian-registered businesses often face significant global limitations. These include restricted access to major payment platforms, banking challenges, and difficulty earning the trust of international clients who typically prefer working with EU or US-based companies.

That’s why more and more Serbian residents have started opening companies in the US. We’ve supported clients from Serbia and across the Balkans in forming US companies and managing compliance. Our team includes Serbian speakers, so you’ll feel right at home.

When a US LLC makes sense for Serbian entrepreneurs

A US LLC benefits digital businesses as well as specific traditional Serbian businesses with international ambitions. Digital businesses that typically benefit include:

• Digital professionals – Freelancers in technology, consulting, design, and marketing services
• Online agencies – Web development teams, digital marketing firms, and outsourcing companies
• Tech entrepreneurs – Developers and digital tool creators targeting a global audience
• Content creators – Online educators, course sellers, and digital product developers
• Real estate investors and holding companies

Many Serbian e-commerce entrepreneurs also form US entities. While LLCs are widely used, they are not always the best choice. For example, Amazon FBA sellers and dropshippers targeting the US market may benefit from forming a C-Corporation, as it can better align with tax rules and business expectations. On the other hand, for those selling primarily in markets like Spain or Germany, an LLC may still be an appropriate and effective structure.

This is where expert guidance becomes critical, as the right decision depends on numerous factors specific to your business situation.

Picking the right US state for your LLC

When forming a US LLC, selecting the right state is key for your particular business needs. Two of the most popular options are Delaware and Wyoming, but for Serbian entrepreneurs, Wyoming is often the better choice.

Delaware

Delaware is known for its robust legal infrastructure, often favored by large corporations. Key benefits include:

• Advanced legal system: Delaware’s legal framework is supported by the Court of Chancery, which specializes in corporate law and resolves business-related disputes quickly and efficiently, making it an ideal environment for corporate matters.
• Investor familiarity: Delaware entities are widely recognized and trusted by investors, making it easier for businesses seeking outside investment or venture capital funding.

However, Delaware’s higher fees and taxes may not be as cost-effective for smaller businesses or those that don’t need the state’s specialized legal services. Additionally, Delaware charges a franchise tax, which can be substantial for LLCs with many shares.

Wyoming

Wyoming offers a similar level of legal protection but at a lower cost, which is appealing to many Serbian entrepreneurs. Advantages include:

• No state income tax: Wyoming does not tax LLC profits, which means significant savings.
• Low fees: Formation and annual report fees in Wyoming are among the lowest in the US.
• Privacy protections: Wyoming does not require public disclosure of LLC members, which can provide extra privacy.
• Simpler compliance: The state does not require a general business license or annual meetings, reducing the administrative burden.

While Delaware is a strong choice for large businesses or those looking to attract venture capital, Wyoming offers a more affordable and privacy-focused alternative for Serbian entrepreneurs, making it the better option for many small to medium-sized ventures.

How to open a US LLC from Serbia: Step-by-step process

Starting a US LLC from Serbia involves a few key steps, whether you handle it yourself or work with a service provider. Here’s how the process works.

1. Choose a state

Decide on the state where you’ll register your LLC. Wyoming is often the best choice for foreign entrepreneurs, offering low costs and strong privacy protections.

2. Choose a registered agent

A registered agent is required in the state where you form your LLC. They will receive legal and tax documents on your behalf such as Articles of Organization, with the state’s Secretary of State

3. File Articles of Organization

Submit your Articles of Organization to the state’s Secretary of State. This document includes your LLC’s name, address, and registered agent information.

4. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

An EIN is required to open a US bank account and file taxes. Serbian residents can apply for an EIN online or through the mail, using Form SS-4 (no SSN required).

5. Obtain a US business address

A US business address is now a mandatory requirement for all LLCs. This can be your registered agent’s address, a physical office, or a virtual office.

6. Open a US bank account

Opening a US bank account helps you separate personal and business finances. Some banks may require an in-person visit, while others allow remote account openings for foreign entrepreneurs.

7. Comply with US tax obligations

Ensure you understand your tax obligations in both the US and Serbia. US LLC profits may be subject to US federal taxes, but the US-Serbia tax treaty can help prevent double taxation. Consulting a tax professional is highly recommended.

From start to finish, expect the process to take 1-2 months. LLC formation typically takes 1-3 work days. Obtaining an EIN typically takes up to 6 weeks, although it can sometimes be issued within a few days. Banking setup can require 1-4 weeks, depending on the institution.

These steps may seem simple, but each comes with important details. Many people open a US LLC on their own, but it’s more than just submitting documents. You’ll need to navigate IRS paperwork, understand which deadlines apply to you, and keep your business compliant over time.

This is exactly where the right support matters. We don’t just help entrepreneurs form an LLC, we guide you through what comes next. From obtaining your EIN and opening a bank account, to handling Form 5472, annual reports, and state filings, we make sure nothing gets overlooked. And if questions come up later in the year, we’re still here to support you.

Tax rules for Serbian entrepreneurs who own a US LLC

Online discussions often highlight the idea of “tax-free” US LLCs, but the reality is more nuanced. Yes, a foreign-owned US LLC can be tax-free (0% taxes) in the US for many types of businesses, but only when it generates exclusively foreign-sourced income and avoids US business activities. 

To understand if this applies to your situation, check our detailed guide on foreign-owned LLC taxation  or schedule a consultation with our experts.

But this is only one side of the coin.

If you have US sourced income, e.g. from selling products to US customers in the US, you may have to pay US taxes. In addition, Serbia taxes its residents on worldwide income, with tax rates ranging from 10-20%. Since there is no tax treaty between the US and Serbia, Serbian entrepreneurs may face the risk of double taxation on their US LLC income. 

Our expertise is US taxation, and we cannot advise on Serbian tax obligations or questions like “I have a US LLC and a Serbian limited liability company (DOO) or sole proprietorship tax status (paušal). How do I regulate taxes in Serbia and transfer money from my LLC to my Serbian account?”

For Serbia-specific tax advice, we always recommend consulting a local tax advisor.

Opening your US LLC from Serbia

Forming a US LLC as a Serbian resident can be complex due to state-specific rules and federal requirements, and laws that may be unfamiliar to foreigners. Key considerations include choosing the best state and properly completing formation documents.

But when considering this step, look beyond just formation to proper long-term compliance and operation. Your specific business type, revenue sources, and growth plans should influence your decisions about state selection and structure.

Understanding US tax and compliance obligations is critical, including how to properly file annual returns, manage state requirements, and handle federal tax responsibilities for your LLC.

Our team includes native Serbian speakers who understand both US corporate requirements and the practical concerns of Serbian business owners. We’ve helped entrepreneurs throughout Serbia establish their US business presence efficiently.

We can handle the entire process for you, from selecting the right state and preparing all documentation to obtaining your EIN and setting up your compliance systems. Our goal is to make establishing your US company as simple and hassle-free as possible.

Launch your US company from home. No paperwork headaches.

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