10 Best Registered Agents for Non-US Residents

Choosing the RIGHT registered agent to keep your business compliant with US laws is crucial for non-US residents looking to establish a business presence in the States.

Whether you’re aiming to tap into the lucrative American market or need a reliable representative for your LLC who protects your privacy, finding a registered agent who understands the unique challenges international entrepreneurs face can make all the difference.

How do I know this?

Well, I’ve been a Non-resident/foreign LLC owner myself (from Nigeria) for the past five years, and I can relate to the struggles of choosing an LLC service that costs an arm and a leg.

Over the years, I’ve researched, tried, and tested 17+ registered agent services for myself and my clients, but I can currently vouch for just a few.

However, I can swear to just ONE—Northwest Registered Agent. Northwest Registered Agent offers privacy-focused services that are ideal for foreign LLC owners like me.

Read my Northwest registered agent review and four years of experience with them.

If you care to check out other services, keep reading to explore more options.

10 Best Registered Agents for Foreign LLCs

1. Northwest Registered Agent (My Favorite Pick)

Northwest Registered Agent offers dependable business formation services with great customer support, making it an excellent choice for non-US residents looking to form an LLC. Their transparent pricing without annoying upsells and ease of use are standout features.

My Favorite Northwest Registered Agent Features

After four years with Northwest, I have found their services consistently reliable and invaluable for my business needs. The setup process was straightforward and hassle-free when I began using their services. Their customer support was always prompt and effective whenever I needed assistance, providing me with peace of mind.

One of Northwest’s standout benefits is its commitment to privacy protection.

As a non-resident, safeguarding my personal information is crucial, and Northwest delivers on this front by ensuring that they never sell your data. You can trust that your information is secure, giving you confidence in their services.

A major perk is their free registered agent service for the first year you hire them to form your LLC.

This generous offer saves you $125 right off the bat, which is a significant saving for any entrepreneur. After the first year, the fee remains a reasonable $125 per year, with no surprise charges or upsells for unnecessary add-ons.

Another remarkable feature is their customer support. Northwest’s support team comprises knowledgeable LLC professionals (accountants, attorneys, business veterans) who are easily accessible. Unlike other services where calls are often transferred multiple times, Northwest ensures you can directly reach a team of experts, resolving issues and getting answers quickly and easily.

Additionally, Northwest offers robust compliance tools.

Their online platform includes features like annual report reminders and state-specific compliance alerts, which help you stay on top of your legal obligations without stress. This proactive approach ensures your business remains in good standing with state requirements.

Their transparent pricing structure is also worth mentioning. Northwest is upfront about its costs, with no hidden fees or unexpected charges, unlike **coughs** Zenbizz.

Use this exclusive link to form your LLC with Northwest for free + state filing fees.

Cons of Northwest

Though Northwest offers many perks, there are a few cons to be aware of. Their price might be slightly higher than other services after the first year.

The initial LLC formation package is $39 plus state fees, which may seem steep for entrepreneurs with limited budgets, BUT it’s the cheapest I’ve found here. Also, Northwest doesn’t offer legal services, which can be a drawback if you need comprehensive legal support as you navigate the complexities of forming and maintaining your LLC.

2. Tailor Brands

Tailor Brands LLC service stands out for providing affordable and comprehensive services for non-US residents wanting to set up an LLC. Key features include registered agent services, business branding, related services, and options for obtaining an EIN.

My Favorite Tailor Brands Features

One of the best things about Tailor Brands is its all-inclusive packages covering essential aspects of LLC formation, making it a one-stop solution for entrepreneurs.

Their registered agent service is a standout feature, available for $199 per year. While it is a bit costlier than Northwest, this service ensures that all legal documents are handled efficiently and promptly. It provides peace of mind that your business remains compliant with state requirements.

Another valuable service Tailor Brands offers is assistance with obtaining your Employer Identification Number (EIN). This is a crucial step for tax purposes, and Tailor Brands handles it for a flat fee of $99. This saves you the hassle of navigating the IRS application process independently and ensures that your EIN is acquired correctly and promptly.

Tailor Brands’ user-friendly platform is another major advantage.

Their website is intuitive and easy to navigate, allowing you to complete the LLC formation process with minimal effort. They guide you through each step, ensuring you don’t miss any important details.

For non-US residents, Tailor Brands offers additional convenience.

Their services make it easier to manage business compliance without being physically present in the US. From registered agent services to EIN acquisition, they handle the complexities, so you don’t have to worry about being on-site.

Tailor Brands also offers a variety of business tools and branding services.

They also provide logo design, website creation, and social media management tools, helping you establish a professional online presence. However, all these services come with additional costs.

=> Get started with Tailor Brands LLC ($0 + state fees)

Cons of Tailor Brands

While Tailor Brands offers many advantages, like the the initial $0 filing fee, there are some downsides you should be aware of. Their services can be more expensive compared to other companies that offer similar registered agent services.

The $199 per year renewal fee for registered agent services may be high for some small businesses.

Finally, their customer support can sometimes be slow, which might be frustrating if you need quick assistance.

3. MyCompanyWorks

MyCompanyWorks is an exceptional choice for non-US residents seeking to form an LLC. Their features cater specifically to the needs of international clients, though there are some areas where they could improve.

MyCompanyWorks Features

If you want to start an LLC, MyCompanyWorks has some standout features that make the process incredibly straightforward and hassle-free. They guide you through each step from the beginning, ensuring everything is clear and easy to follow.

One feature you’ll particularly appreciate is their registered agent service. For just $99 per year, they handle all your important legal documents, ensuring you never miss anything crucial. This is a huge relief, especially if you’re not always able to keep track of these details yourself.

What sets MyCompanyWorks apart is their commitment to customer support.

They have a team of friendly and knowledgeable professionals who are always ready to help. Whether you have a quick question or need more in-depth assistance, they’re just a phone call or email away. This level of support is invaluable, especially when you’re navigating the complexities of starting a business.

Another great feature is their compliance tools. MyCompanyWorks offers a handy dashboard that helps you stay on top of all your filing deadlines and compliance requirements. You get reminders for annual reports and other important filings to keep your business in good standing without constantly worrying about missing a deadline.

For nonresidents, MyCompanyWorks might be a fantastic option.

They make it easy to manage your business from abroad, taking care of the details so you can focus on growing your company. Their services are designed to be user-friendly and efficient, which is exactly what you need to run a business from a different country.

However, there are a few downsides to consider. One potential drawback is that MyCompanyWorks does not include legal services in their packages. If you need legal advice or assistance with more complex legal matters, you must seek that help separately. Additionally, while their pricing is competitive, some add-on services can add up, so it’s important to budget accordingly.

4. Doola

Doola is a top registered agent service for foreign LLCs due to its comprehensive compliance features and competitive pricing. Its services include timely alerts and legal document management, making managing your LLC from abroad easier.

Doola Features

Doola has some fantastic features that make your business operations smoother and more efficient. For just $95 per year, Doola provides you with a registered agent who handles all your important legal documents and government notices, ensuring you never miss any crucial information.

One of the standout features of Doola is its timely alerts.

They ensure you’re always in the loop by sending notifications about important documents or deadlines. This proactive approach helps you stay compliant and avoid any legal penalties arising from missed deadlines.

Doola’s platform is designed with compliance in mind. They offer various pricing packages tailored to meet different compliance needs, making them accessible for businesses of all sizes and types. Whether you’re a small startup or a growing company, Doola has a package that can fit your specific requirements.

Another significant advantage is their user-friendly platform. It’s easy to navigate, so you can manage your business operations without hassle. They simplify complex compliance requirements, making it easier to focus on running your business rather than getting bogged down in paperwork.

For non-US residents, Doola is a great registered agent service because it takes care of all the compliance details, allowing you to manage your business from anywhere in the world. This level of convenience is particularly beneficial if you’re not based in the US but must ensure your business remains compliant with US regulations.

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider.

Service pricing can be higher than that of other providers, especially if you opt for the more comprehensive packages.

Doola’s additional services, such as the Total Compliance Package, can cost $300/month or $1999/year. This is where Northwest registered agent beats most registered agents hands down. No extra charges for add-ons, upsells etc. As these things comes with your basic Northwest subscription.

Doola may not be the most budget-friendly option if you’re just starting out and looking for basic services.

5. Bizee

One major issue of Bizee is the cost. Some of Bizee’s services can seem quite basic for your price. While they offer comprehensive support, there may be cheaper alternatives with similar offerings. Additionally, Bizee lacks some advanced features that other companies might provide. For example, they do not offer tools or services to help with international business tax compliance, which might necessitate looking elsewhere for specific needs.

Despite these drawbacks, Bizee registered agent has several advantages, making it a strong contender for foreign LLCs. They offer same-day processing for urgent business needs, particularly useful if trying to establish your business quickly. Additionally, they provide services across all 50 states, making them a good choice if you plan to expand your business operations.

Bizee’s platform also offers easy-to-understand guidelines for setting up your LLC. Their responsive customer service ensures you have support when dealing with legal and administrative hurdles. The combination of speed, state coverage, and support makes Bizee a reliable choice.

6. Swyft Filings

Swyft Filings is another fair choice for non-residents looking to form an LLC in the United States, but there are some drawbacks to consider.

The most notable downside is that their prices can be higher compared to other services. Additionally, Swyft Filings does not include registered agent service in their basic plans, a critical feature for non-US residents. If you need this service, you’ll have to pay an additional fee, increasing the overall cost.

Furthermore, their customer support is only available during business hours—Monday to Friday between 9 am and 6 pm CST—which may not be convenient for everyone, especially those in different time zones.

Despite these drawbacks, Swyft Filings offers several benefits that make it a strong contender. They provide a straightforward approach to forming an LLC, with clear pricing plans. The Standard plan costs $199 plus state fees and includes essential services like name availability verification and preparation of the articles of organization.

For more comprehensive support, their Premium plan, priced at $299 plus state fees, adds features such as a custom LLC operating agreement and expedited filing. This can be particularly useful if you need to establish your LLC quickly or require additional documentation.

Customer support is accessible via phone, email, and online form, making it easy to get help when you need it. While not available 24/7, their support team is generally reliable and responsive within the stated hours.

7. LegalZoom

LegalZoom stands out as a top choice for non-residents seeking a registered agent service despite its higher price point of $249 per year.

One of LegalZoom’s notable advantages is its extensive platform, offering various services beyond registered agent duties. Whether you need help with trademarks, legal advice, copyrights, or more, LegalZoom provides comprehensive support all in one place.

Another compelling aspect is LegalZoom’s extensive experience serving millions of customers. This depth of experience ensures they understand the unique legal requirements and challenges non-US residents face.

While LegalZoom’s cost may be higher, but it delivers value through its broad legal services. If you require more than just basic registered agent services—such as legal consultations or trademark assistance—LegalZoom could be a suitable option.

However, it’s essential to consider whether the additional services justify the higher cost, especially if you only require basic registered agent services. Depending on your specific needs and budget, LegalZoom’s comprehensive offerings may be a perfect match or more than what you need.

8. ZenBusiness

ZenBusiness is a popular choice among non-US residents seeking to establish an LLC. They offer a comprehensive package that includes assistance with LLC formation and serving as a registered agent.

ZenBusiness charges $199 per year for registered agent services, and the fee increases to $1000 due to other upsells and hidden services. If you work within a tight budget, this might not be your best option.

Customer reviews generally reflect positivity, with users praising the user-friendly interface and helpful customer support. However, it’s important to note that some users have expressed frustration with frequent upsell attempts and found the overall costs higher than expected.

Reasons why I might hesitate to recommend ZenBusiness include:

• Annoying Upsells: Many users find the persistent upsell offers bothersome.
• Expensive: While cheaper than some alternatives, costs can escalate with additional services.
• Mixed Experiences: Despite many positive reviews, some users have reported negative experiences.

While ZenBusiness offers solid services, potential hidden costs and frequent upsell attempts should be considered when making your decision.

9. InCorp

InCorp is a solid choice if you’re a non-US resident looking to set up an LLC. They provide registered agent services in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. This broad reach can benefit if you plan to do business in multiple locations.

You’ll appreciate InCorp’s affordability. Their services start at a competitive rate, helping you manage costs effectively. Additionally, they offer volume discounts if you need services in multiple states.

Experience and reliability are key with InCorp. They serve over 250,000 clients and have been recognized as a great place to work, which reflects their strong customer service and robust support systems.

Using InCorp also means you have access to their user-friendly online system. This allows you to manage your documents and compliance requirements with ease, reducing the administrative burden on your time.

Privacy is another advantage. InCorp helps to keep your personal details off public record, which can be particularly important if you’re managing your LLC from abroad.

Their comprehensive service includes not only receiving legal documents but also compliance reminders, annual report filings, and easy access to necessary paperwork, which can make managing your LLC simpler and more streamlined.

Selecting InCorp might just offer you the peace of mind and support needed as a non-US resident navigating the complexities of forming an LLC stateside.

10. Harbor Compliance

Choosing a registered agent service can be crucial for non-US residents. Harbor Compliance stands out due to its affordable pricing and comprehensive services.

For just $89 per year, you get reliable services that help you meet all legal requirements. This includes same-day documents and easy online access to state forms with their address and signature where required.

One of the best aspects of Harbor Compliance is that they cater to foreign LLCs. They handle everything efficiently, making it easier for you to manage your business from afar. Harbor Compliance is known for being cost-efficient, providing a range of useful services without additional fees.

If you need to manage multi-state entities, Harbor Compliance can handle that too. They offer consistent support across all 50 states, ensuring you’re compliant wherever you operate. Their platform is user-friendly, and they have a reputation for excellent reliability and service.

Having a trustworthy registered agent like Harbor Compliance for non-US residents simplifies your business setup and operations. You can focus on growing your business while they handle the legal complexities.

How I Chose The Best Registered Agent For Non-US

Here are my picks for the best-registered agent service for a foreign LLC:

Registered Agent	Registered Agent Fee	Annual Fee
Northwest Registered Agent	$0	$125
Tailor Brands	$99	$99
MyCompanyWorks	$99	$99
Doola	$199	$199
Bizee	$299	$299
Swyft Filings	$149	$149
LegalZoom	$249	$299
InCorp	$99	$99
Harbor Compliance	$99	$99

To identify the best-registered agent services for non-US residents, I started by using a few for my clients and formed my business with the services with the most positive reviews. This was followed by thorough research. I also reviewed multiple sources, read user reviews, and expert insights. Finally, I also examined the specifics of each registered agent’s service offerings, costs, and customer support.

I focused on a few key criteria:

• Reputation:

I prioritized companies with strong reputations and positive reviews, especially from international clients. A solid reputation indicates reliability and high-quality service. I checked online reviews, testimonials, and industry ratings to ensure I was selecting agents with a proven track record.

• Privacy Protection:

As a non-resident not physically present in the United States, privacy protection was crucial. I sought a service that allows me to use its address as my business address, ensuring that my personal information remains private and secure. This arrangement helps maintain confidentiality and reduces exposure to unwanted solicitations or inquiries.

• Service Offerings:

Comprehensive service offerings were crucial. I looked for agents that provide mail forwarding, compliance alerts, and legal document handling. These services ensure efficient management of essential communications and legal compliance, allowing you to focus on your business.

• Cost:

Finding a balance between quality and affordability was essential. I evaluated the pricing structures to ensure they offered good value for money. Considering both initial setup costs and ongoing annual fees helped me manage the budget effectively.

• Specialization for Non-US Residents:

Services that cater specifically to the needs of non-US residents were given extra points. These agents understand the complexities of operating a business from abroad, including compliance with US regulations and handling international communications, providing tailored support to ensure smooth operations.

I used my experience as an LLC expert to critically evaluate each service. Factors like ease of setup, clarity of information, and responsiveness of customer support played significant roles in the decision process.

From this extensive research, I found that Northwest Registered Agent stands out. They have a strong track record with non-US residents and provide excellent customer service. I have been using their services since 2020 and can vouch for their reliability and expertise.

Here’s a comparison highlighting why Northwest Registered Agent excels:

Service	Northwest Registered Agent	Other Services
Cost	$125/year	$149-$249/year
Customer Support	Personalized support	Generic support
Non-US Resident Expertise	High	Varies
Comprehensive Services	Yes	Sometimes incomplete

Frequently Asked Questions