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What items are included in the costs of establishing a U.S. corporation?

As I prepare to expand my business overseas, I am looking into the costs of establishing a U.S. corporation. I intend to set up a corporation in the United States and employ local staff, and I have heard that I need to consider not only the establishment costs but also visa and operating-related costs. I would like to know what items are actually included in the costs of establishing a U.S. corporation and how far the initial costs should be considered to extend.

Costs of establishing a U.S. corporation

Establishment of a U.S. corporation

Answer to Related Inquiry

Author: 김국일

It is necessary to understand that the costs of establishing a U.S. corporation are structured to include not only the establishment costs but also corporate registration, maintenance, and staffing.

In practice, the costs of establishing a U.S. corporation are divided into several items, and the total cost can vary greatly depending on how broad a scope is included.

Therefore, they can be viewed in stages as follows.

① Direct costs of establishing the corporation

As the most basic cost, this includes the registration fee incurred when registering the corporation with the state.

Costs differ from state to state, such as Delaware and California, and also vary depending on the type of corporation (LLC, C-Corp).

② Essential costs for operating the corporation

The costs of establishing a U.S. corporation include the cost of a Registered Agent (a local agent), the application for a business registration (EIN), and the cost of securing an address, among others.

In particular, designating an address or an agent within the United States is a mandatory requirement.

③ Costs of professional advice

The advice of an attorney or an accountant is often needed for designing the corporate structure, reviewing the tax structure, and drafting contracts.

This is also an important item included in the costs of establishing a U.S. corporation.

④ Costs related to staffing and visas

In the case of companies expanding overseas, dispatching employees is often necessary, so in addition to the costs of establishing a U.S. corporation, visa application costs and immigration-related advisory costs may be added.

As in the situation you asked about, where the establishment of a corporation and the dispatch of staff take place at the same time, the proportion of such costs can increase.

Ultimately, the costs of establishing a U.S. corporation should be assessed comprehensively, including not only corporate registration fees but also the costs of preparing for operations.

In particular, because the cost structure can vary depending on the choice of state, the type of corporation, and the staffing plan, it is important first to organize the overall structure through legal review.

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