How to Register a Business in the US from Syria
Starting a US business from Syria involves understanding legal requirements, navigating visa and immigration processes, and leveraging online tools and local resources to manage operations remotely. This guide provides detailed steps and practical advice to help Syrian entrepreneurs successfully establish and run a business in the United States.
Ready to start your business? Plans starting at $297 + state fees.
Step 1: Benefits of starting your US business from Syria
Starting a US business from Syria comes with a myriad of benefits, offering entrepreneurs an opportunity to tap into a larger and more diverse market. The US market is renowned for its stability, extensive consumer base, and robust economic framework, which can provide Syrian entrepreneurs with a secure environment to grow their business. By leveraging the vast network of resources, financing options, and technological advancements available in the US, entrepreneurs from Syria can position themselves in a competitive landscape that fosters innovation and expansion.
Additionally, the legal and regulatory frameworks in the US are designed to support and protect business ventures, ensuring a level playing field for all entrepreneurs. This can be particularly advantageous for Syrian business owners looking to scale their operations swiftly. The US also offers extensive support through various programs aimed at assisting international businesses, including mentorship programs, networking events, and market entry resources. By establishing a presence in the US, Syrian business owners can not only benefit from the local market but also access a global network of opportunities that can drive long-term success and sustainability for their enterprise.
Pros
- Access to skilled labor at lower costs compared to the US market.
- Opportunity to tap into a new and growing market with less competition.
- Potential for government incentives and tax benefits for foreign investors.
Cons
- High political and economic instability in Syria
- Constant security risks and potential violence
- Limited access to necessary resources and technology.
Step 2: How to start your US business from Syria
Starting a US business from Syria involves a few essential steps, even though you are physically located outside the United States. First, you need to choose a business structure, such as an LLC, corporation, or partnership, by considering factors like liability, taxation, and management. Once you decide on a structure, you typically have to register your business with a state, such as Delaware or Wyoming, known for being business-friendly.
After registration, obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS is crucial for tax purposes. You can apply for an EIN online through the IRS website. Additionally, you might need to open a US bank account to manage your finances, which can be done by working with international banks or financial institutions that have operations in the US. It is also essential to comply with federal and state tax laws, and consulting with a US-based attorney or accountant familiar with international business can be beneficial.
Choose and reserve a name
It's wise to check your LLC name against similar businesses in your area. We include a name check with our formation services and can reserve names for you.
Pick a Registered Agent (RA)
An RA physically receives your LLC's legal notices during normal business hours. Most states require this, including Syria—but the good news is, we can do it for you.
File a Certificate of Formation
This document contains basic details about your LLC, including its name and address. When we file this for you, it's typically sent to the Syria Secretary of State.
Preparing an Operating Agreement
This outlines your LLC's rules for everything from decision-making to distributing profits. Though it isn't required in your state, our templates make it easy to prepare one and define your rights.
Get an Employer ID Number (EIN)
An EIN is like a Social Security number for your LLC, and is needed for banking, taxes, and hiring. Syria LLCs may also have additional post-formation tax and regulatory requirements.
Determine licenses needed
You'll also need to apply for any specific permits or licenses that may be required for compliance, although it's wise to wait until your LLC's formation documents are approved.
Step 3: Opening a Business Bank Account
A business bank account is a separate account that is used exclusively for business transactions. But why is it important to open a business bank account?
Keeping your personal and business finances separate is crucial. A dedicated business bank account allows you to do just that, making it much easier to track your business’s income and expenses. This clear separation translates to simpler tax reporting come tax season.
But the benefits go beyond bookkeeping. Having a separate account can provide legal protection. It establishes your business as a distinct entity from yourself. In the unfortunate event of a lawsuit or bankruptcy, this separation can help shield your personal assets from business liabilities.
Furthermore, a business bank account can boost your credibility and project professionalism.
It demonstrates to clients and vendors that you take your business seriously and are committed to maintaining accurate financial records. This can be especially important in establishing trust with potential partners.
Finally, a business bank account is essential for accepting payments, even if you utilize a merchant account. Whether you use doola or another service, funneling those customer funds into a dedicated business account is necessary.
doola partners with banks that allow you to open a bank account remotely from anywhere in the world, like Mercury. Shop around and compare different banks’ fees and services.
Look for a bank that offers the features you need, such as online banking, mobile banking, or overdraft protection.
You may also want to consider working with a bank that specializes in small business banking.
Step 4: Understanding Your Compliance Requirements in Syria
Understanding Compliance Requirements for Running a US Business in Syria
Operating a US business in Syria involves navigating a complex landscape of compliance requirements. These regulations ensure adherence to both US and Syrian laws and involve several critical considerations. Below are key considerations to keep in mind:
1. Sanctions and Export Controls
The US government has imposed comprehensive sanctions on Syria. These sanctions restrict the export, re-export, sale, or supply of goods, services, and technology to Syria. Therefore, businesses must:
- Review the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) guidelines.
- Ensure they are not transacting with designated entities or individuals on the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list.
- Seek licenses where necessary for certain transactions.
2. Anti-Bribery and Corruption
The Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) prohibits US companies and individuals from making payments to foreign officials to influence their decisions. Businesses should:
- Implement rigorous internal controls to detect and prevent corrupt practices.
- Conduct thorough due diligence on local partners and agents.
- Train employees to recognize and report corrupt activities.
3. Due Diligence and Vetting
Due diligence is crucial for compliance. US businesses must vet potential local partners, suppliers, and customers to ensure they are not associated with prohibited entities. This involves:
- Conducting background checks and verifying the legitimacy of Syrian businesses.
- Regularly updating and reviewing compliance procedures.
- Utilizing third-party compliance tools and resources for continuous monitoring.
4. Reporting and Records
Maintaining accurate records and reporting is essential for compliance. Businesses should:
- Keep detailed records of all transactions and communications.
- Report any suspicious activities to appropriate authorities.
- Follow OFAC's guidelines on recordkeeping for five years.
5. Engaging Legal and Compliance Experts
Given the complexities of operating in Syria, seeking expert advice can be beneficial. Businesses should consider:
- Engaging with legal experts specializing in international trade and sanctions.
- Consulting with compliance professionals to develop robust compliance programs.
- Participating in industry groups or forums to stay informed on regulatory changes.
By understanding and adhering to these considerations, US businesses can navigate the regulatory environment in Syria while minimizing legal and financial risks. Compliance is an ongoing process that requires vigilance, diligence, and a proactive approach.
doola offers a Total Compliance package, including bookkeeping services, to help you stay on top of your compliance requirements. This ensures your business operates smoothly and adheres to all legal and regulatory standards.
Step 5: Understanding Your Tax Obligations in Syria
Understanding Tax Obligations for Running a US Business in Syria
Running a US business in Syria comes with unique tax considerations that require careful planning and compliance. This article aims to provide an overview of key factors to understand when dealing with such tax obligations.
Types of Taxes
Businesses in Syria are subject to various types of taxes. It is crucial to be aware of the following:
- Corporate Income Tax: This tax is levied on the profits of companies operating in Syria. The rate and regulations might differ from those in the US.
- Value-Added Tax (VAT): VAT is imposed on goods and services at varying rates. Businesses must register for VAT and comply with filing requirements.
- Withholding Tax: Payments to non-residents may be subject to withholding tax. This includes dividends, interest, and royalties.
Double Taxation Agreements
Syria has agreements with certain countries to prevent double taxation. These agreements can help US businesses reduce the tax burden, but it is important to verify if such an agreement exists between the US and Syria.
Tax Registration and Compliance
Ensuring proper tax registration and compliance is essential. The following considerations should be taken into account:
- Registration: Businesses must register with the Syrian Tax Authority to obtain a tax identification number.
- Filing Requirements: Regular filing of tax returns and declarations is mandatory. Late submissions may attract penalties.
- Payment Deadlines: Timely payment of taxes is crucial to avoid interest and penalties.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
The legal environment in Syria may have specific regulations affecting foreign businesses. Consulting with local tax advisors or legal experts can help navigate these complexities.
Currency and Exchange Controls
Understanding currency and exchange controls is important for financial planning. These controls can impact repatriation of profits and financial transactions involving foreign currency.
Working with Professionals
Engaging with tax professionals and legal advisors who are knowledgeable about both Syrian and US tax laws can provide valuable guidance. This includes ensuring compliance and optimizing tax planning strategies.
In conclusion, understanding and managing tax obligations for running a US business in Syria requires a comprehensive approach, considering local regulations, international agreements, and professional advice.
It’s a good idea to consult with a tax professional or an accountant (or to hire these roles in-house) to make sure you’re not missing anything.
doola's Total Compliance package can handle your tax filings for you, ensuring you remain compliant with federal, state, and local tax requirements.
Step 6: How doola Can Assist
doola simplifies the incorporation and setup process for your company, ensuring you’re ready to charge customers, hire your team, and raise funds as quickly as possible.
Fill out your company details in the doola form in less than 10 minutes. Then, we’ll incorporate your company in any of the 50 US states, get your IRS tax ID (EIN) for you, and file your 83(b) tax election if needed.
doola can also help you open a bank account and start accepting payments even before the IRS assigns your tax ID.
doola founders also gain access to exclusive discounts at leading software partners, one-click onboarding with select partners, and free CPA consultations.
The doola Application
It takes less than 10 minutes to fill out the details of your new company. You’ll choose your company structure (C corporation, limited liability company) and pick a company name.
Our instant company name checker will let you know if it’s available before you submit your application. You’ll add an address and phone number and review and sign your EIN SS4 letter in one click.
Forming the Company
doola will review your application and file your formation documents in the state within one business day. doola charges $297 for our Starter Plan and your first year of registered agent services (a state compliance requirement), and $297 each year thereafter to maintain your registered agent.
You can also opt for our Total Compliance plan.
Getting Your IRS Tax ID (EIN)
After your formation in the state is complete, doola will file for your company’s IRS tax ID. Founders who provide a US Social Security number, US address, and US phone are eligible for expedited processing. All other users will receive standard processing.
For standard orders, doola will fax your form SS4 to the IRS and then call the IRS to retrieve the EIN for you to expedite the process if we can, using real-time IRS data to determine when your filing is likely to be available.
Filing Your 83(b) Tax Election
Many startup founders choose to file an 83(b) tax election to potentially save on future personal taxes. doola can file and mail your 83(b) tax election in one click for both US and non-US founders — no trip to the post office required.
We’ll file it using USPS Certified Mail with tracking, and you’ll get a copy of your signed 83(b) election and proof of filing in your Dashboard.
Partner Perks and Discounts
doola partners with a range of third-party tools to offer special pricing or access to founders. We offer discounts on engineering, tax and finance, compliance, and operations tools, including Amazon Web Services.
doola also partners with Mercury to provide faster, automatic onboarding using your doola company information so you can get ready to bank and fundraise even faster.
Founders may also access discounts on other doola products, including up to one year of free credits toward payment processing.
Read our guides for startup founders, or learn more about doola and how we can help you set up your new business quickly and easily.
Turn your entrepreneurship dream into reality today!
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information, however the information provided here are just guidelines. Please speak with a tax and compliance professional in your country
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Formation & EIN filings, RA service, Operating Agreement, and regular compliance reminders.
State fee not included.
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Total Compliance
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Formation with Expedited processing, Annual State filings, IRS Tax filings, a dedicated Account Manager and a free CPA consultation.
State fee not included.
Each state charges a one-time formation fee. Your state fee will vary depending on the state you form in. Not sure which state to choose? Take our quiz →
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See what people say about doola on
Y Combinator
YC S20's @doolaHQ is the one-stop-shop for US and non-US residents to launch a US LLC, DAO LLC, and C Corp — and today they're sharing their company formation API with the world, to enable businesses big and small to create a company from the command line.
Ankur Nagpal
You can programmatically create a company or DAO using their API Programmatically create a business, get an EIN, get a US bank account, process payments, file taxes & more Perfect for any “business in a box” startup
Jose Rosado
Thanks to the @StartPackHQ for helping me with this process. Check them out 👇 https://rosa.do/startpack
Mary Ann Azevedo
.@doolaHQ, which describes itself as a "Business in a box" for SMBs, has raised $3M in a seed round of funding. doola provides company formation, an EIN, a U.S. address and bank account, access to U.S. payments and a tax consultation, among other things.
Ankur Nagpal
The good news: You don't have to be a US resident to start a company in America If you want to start a tech startup, incorporate a C-Corp If you want to freelance or consult with your own business, incorporate a LLC This should be straightforward - use @doolaHQ & you're good
Alex Lieberman
I haven't started a business in 8 years. I had to rediscover the mission critical tools for starting & running a new venture. Here's the stack:LLC registration: @doolaHQ, Trademark filing: @JoshGerben, Domain registration: @GoDaddy, Website: @Shopify, Banking: @mercury, Payments: @stripe, Files: @googledrive, Internal email: @gmail, Extern email: @Mailchimp, Go-to Market: @Kickstarter, Task Management: @asana
Syndicate
8/ We've also teamed with @doolaHQ to enable DAOs on Syndicate to get legal entities and EINs, open fiat bank accounts, submit compliance filings, and issue K-1 tax forms easily and affordably. This is just the beginning of new capabilities we’ll be bringing to DAOs, together.
Elizabeth Yin
Congrats to @HustleFundVC portfolio company Doola (formerly StartPack) on their new round! Thank you for letting us invest
Will Papper
We use @doolahq at @SyndicateDAO
Y Combinator
YC S20's @doolaHQ is the one-stop-shop for US and non-US residents to launch a US LLC, DAO LLC, and C Corp — and today they're sharing their company formation API with the world, to enable businesses big and small to create a company from the command line.
Ankur Nagpal
You can programmatically create a company or DAO using their API Programmatically create a business, get an EIN, get a US bank account, process payments, file taxes & more Perfect for any “business in a box” startup
Jose Rosado
Thanks to the @StartPackHQ for helping me with this process. Check them out 👇https://rosa.do/startpack
Mary Ann Azevedo
.@doolaHQ, which describes itself as a "Business in a box" for SMBs, has raised $3M in a seed round of funding. doola provides company formation, an EIN, a U.S. address and bank account, access to U.S. payments and a tax consultation, among other things.
Ankur Nagpal
The good news: You don't have to be a US resident to start a company in America. If you want to start a tech startup, incorporate a C-Corp If you want to freelance or consult with your own business, incorporate a LLC This should be straightforward - use @doolaHQ & you're good
Alex Lieberman
I haven't started a business in 8 years. I had to rediscover the mission critical tools for starting & running a new venture. Here's the stack:LLC registration: @doolaHQ, Trademark filing: @JoshGerben, Domain registration: @GoDaddy, Website: @Shopify, Banking: @mercury, Payments: @stripe, Files: @googledrive, Internal email: @gmail, Extern email: @Mailchimp, Go-to Market: @Kickstarter, Task Management: @asana
Syndicate
8/ We've also teamed with @doolaHQ to enable DAOs on Syndicate to get legal entities and EINs, open fiat bank accounts, submit compliance filings, and issue K-1 tax forms easily and affordably. This is just the beginning of new capabilities we’ll be bringing to DAOs, together.
Elizabeth Yin
Congrats to @HustleFundVC portfolio company Doola (formerly StartPack) on their new round! Thank you for letting us invest
Will Papper
We use @doolahq at @SyndicateDAO
Hustle Fund
Congrats team @doolaHQ! Ya'll ship so well and are continue to make company formation a snap. Appreciate being on this journey with you!
dharmesh
Love the work that @DoolaHQ is doing. Aligns with my philosophy of addressing the "talent is evenly distributed, opportunity is not" issue. More startups everywhere = good for everyone.
Aditya Mohanty
Was blown away seeing how easy @doolaHQ makes it to start an entity in the US, completely online. If you're planning to build from India for the world, definitely watch out for this team 🔥
Y Combinator
YC S20’s @doolaHQ is the one-stop-shop for U.S. and non-U.S. residents to launch a U.S. LLC and C Corp — and today they're launching full support for DAO LLCs, bridging web3 and web2:
Sahil Bloom
💥Investment Announcement💥 Excited to invest in @doolaHQ! A business-in-a-box platform enabling founders from anywhere in the world to start their dream US business. Proud to be an investing alongside @NexusVP @ycombinator @dharmesh @ankurnagpal @anothercohen, and more!
Alex Lieberman
I love businesses that go long growth of entrepreneurship. @tryramp for startup spending, @doola for business formation, @carta for equity management and @Rippling for HR & IT
Eric Bahn
I recommend bookmarking this if you start to get serious about angel investing. LLC structures have some great benefits, thank you @arjunmahadevan for the awesome explainer here!
Rohun
you should be able to "start a business" without having to worry about LLCs, bank accounts, taxes, and bookkeeping. my friend, @arjunmahadevan is building this with @doolaHQ here's why it's a great biz and you should use them for the next LLC you form.
Hustle Fund
Congrats team @doolaHQ! Ya'll ship so well and are continue to make company formation a snap. Appreciate being on this journey with you!
dharmesh
Love the work that @DoolaHQ is doing. Aligns with my philosophy of addressing the "talent is evenly distributed, opportunity is not" issue. More startups everywhere = good for everyone.
Aditya Mohanty
Was blown away seeing how easy @doolaHQ makes it to start an entity in the US, completely online. If you're planning to build from India for the world, definitely watch out for this team 🔥
Y Combinator
YC S20’s @doolaHQ is the one-stop-shop for U.S. and non-U.S. residents to launch a U.S. LLC and C Corp — and today they're launching full support for DAO LLCs, bridging web3 and web2:
Sahil Bloom
💥Investment Announcement💥 Excited to invest in @doolaHQ! A business-in-a-box platform enabling founders from anywhere in the world to start their dream US business. Proud to be an investing alongside @NexusVP @ycombinator @dharmesh @ankurnagpal @anothercohen, and more!
Alex Lieberman
I love businesses that go long growth of entrepreneurship. @tryramp for startup spending, @doola for business formation, @carta for equity management and @Rippling for HR & IT
Eric Bahn
I recommend bookmarking this if you start to get serious about angel investing. LLC structures have some great benefits, thank you @arjunmahadevan for the awesome explainer here!
Rohun
you should be able to "start a business" without having to worry about LLCs, bank accounts, taxes, and bookkeeping. my friend, @arjunmahadevan is building this with @doolaHQ here's why it's a great biz and you should use them for the next LLC you form.
Y Combinator
YC S20's @doolaHQ is the one-stop-shop for US and non-US residents to launch a US LLC, DAO LLC, and C Corp — and today they're sharing their company formation API with the world, to enable businesses big and small to create a company from the command line.
Hustle Fund
Congrats team @doolaHQ! Ya'll ship so well and are continue to make company formation a snap. Appreciate being on this journey with you!
Ankur Nagpal
You can programmatically create a company or DAO using their API Programmatically create a business, get an EIN, get a US bank account, process payments, file taxes & more Perfect for any “business in a box” startup
dharmesh
Love the work that @DoolaHQ is doing. Aligns with my philosophy of addressing the "talent is evenly distributed, opportunity is not" issue. More startups everywhere = good for everyone.
Jose Rosado
Thanks to the @StartPackHQ for helping me with this process.Check them out 👇 https://rosa.do/startpack
Aditya Mohanty
Was blown away seeing how easy @doolaHQ makes it to start an entity in the US, completely online. If you're planning to build from India for the world, definitely watch out for this team 🔥
Mary Ann Azevedo
.@doolaHQ, which describes itself as a "Business in a box" for SMBs, has raised $3M in a seed round of funding. doola provides company formation, an EIN, a U.S. address and bank account, access to U.S. payments and a tax consultation, among other things.
Y Combinator
YC S20’s @doolaHQ is the one-stop-shop for U.S. and non-U.S. residents to launch a U.S. LLC and C Corp — and today they're launching full support for DAO LLCs, bridging web3 and web2:
Ankur Nagpal
The good news: You don't have to be a US resident to start a company in America If you want to start a tech startup, incorporate a C-Corp If you want to freelance or consult with your own business, incorporate a LLC This should be straightforward - use @doolaHQ & you're good
Sahil Bloom
💥Investment Announcement💥 Excited to invest in @doolaHQ! A business-in-a-box platform enabling founders from anywhere in the world to start their dream US business. Proud to be an investing alongside @NexusVP @ycombinator @dharmesh @ankurnagpal @anothercohen, and more!
Alex Lieberman
I haven't started a business in 8 years. I had to rediscover the mission critical tools for starting & running a new venture. Here's the stack:LLC registration: @doolaHQ, Trademark filing: @JoshGerben, Domain registration: @GoDaddy, Website: @Shopify, Banking: @mercury, Payments: @stripe, Files: @googledrive, Internal email: @gmail, Extern email: @Mailchimp, Go-to Market: @Kickstarter, Task Management: @asana
Alex Lieberman
I love businesses that go long growth of entrepreneurship. @tryramp for startup spending, @doola for business formation, @carta for equity management and @Rippling for HR & IT
Syndicate
8/ We've also teamed with @doolaHQ to enable DAOs on Syndicate to get legal entities and EINs, open fiat bank accounts, submit compliance filings, and issue K-1 tax forms easily and affordably.This is just the beginning of new capabilities we’ll be bringing to DAOs, together.
Eric Bahn
I recommend bookmarking this if you start to get serious about angel investing. LLC structures have some great benefits, thank you @arjunmahadevan for the awesome explainer here!
Elizabeth Yin
Congrats to @HustleFundVC portfolio company Doola (formerly StartPack) on their new round! Thank you for letting us invest
Rohun
you should be able to "start a business" without having to worry about LLCs, bank accounts, taxes, and bookkeeping. my friend, @arjunmahadevan is building this with @doolaHQ here's why it's a great biz and you should use them for the next LLC you form.
Will Papper
We use @doolahq at @SyndicateDAO
Why should I get an LLC and a business bank account?
Forming an LLC and opening a business bank account are essential steps to protect your personal assets and streamline your finances. An LLC limits your personal liability in case of legal or financial issues, while a business bank account helps you separate personal and business finances, making tax preparation easier and ensuring a more professional image for your business.
Do I need to be a US citizen to work with doola?
No, you don’t! We work with entrepreneurs from around the world to get their businesses incorporated. Don’t take our word for it, though; check out our TrustPilot Page to hear what people globally have to say about doola.
What is an LLC (Limited Liability Company)?
A limited liability company is a formal business structure (created as per state law) where the business is legally distinct from the owner(s). It may have a single owner in the case of a Single-Member LLC or multiple owners in the case of a Multi-Member LLC.
An LLC combines the perks of a corporation (protection against personal liability) and a partnership (pass-through taxation). Since the business has a separate legal existence, the members are not personally liable for the debts and obligations of the Company.
State laws stipulate how LLCs should be incorporated. Some states require specific documents, such as the articles of organization, membership agreement, etc., to be filed with the authorities.
Learn more about LLCs and how they work in FREE ebook.
What information do you need from me to get started?
We don't need any documents to get started. We just need a few pieces of info from you:
- Your Company Name
- Your Personal Address
- Phone Number and Email (For contact purposes)
Later in the process, you'll need a passport to set up your bank account.
What is an EIN?
An Employer Identification Number is the tax identification number for your organization and a requirement of many banks or institutions (such as the IRS) to carry out business in the US. Once your EIN is acquired, you can apply for business bank accounts and payment gateways. Learn more about the full process.
What is an ITIN?
An Individual Tax Identification Number (ITIN) can be used as an alternative for a Social Security Number (SSN) in some cases and is not a requirement in most cases. However, you will be required to have one if you wish to apply for a PayPal account or certain bank accounts. We walk you through how this process looks like in our guide!
Still have a question?
Schedule a free consultation with an expert from doola, today.
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