Can Argentine residents form a Wyoming LLC?
Yes. Argentine citizens can legally form and own a Wyoming LLC without a US address, Social Security Number, or visa. Wyoming state law allows citizens of any country to form LLCs with no nationality restrictions.
US federal law and Wyoming state law impose no citizenship or residency restrictions on LLC ownership. Wyoming Statute §17-29-201 governs LLC formation and requires only an LLC name, registered agent with Wyoming address, and Articles of Organization. The statute contains no nationality requirements.
Argentine residents need three items to form a Wyoming LLC: a Wyoming registered agent with a physical Wyoming street address, Articles of Organization filed with the Wyoming Secretary of State, and an EIN from the IRS. None of these require a US visit or SSN.
Argentina's ongoing economic challenges — including peso devaluation, high inflation, and currency controls (cepo cambiario) — make Wyoming LLCs particularly valuable for Argentine entrepreneurs who earn in USD. A Wyoming LLC provides a stable USD-denominated business structure outside Argentina's financial restrictions.
Key fact: Argentina is not on any US sanctions list. Argentine citizens face no additional restrictions when forming US business entities or opening US bank accounts. The process is identical to other non-sanctioned countries.
Why should Argentine entrepreneurs form a Wyoming LLC?
Argentine entrepreneurs form Wyoming LLCs to protect earnings from peso devaluation, access Stripe US with USD payouts, establish US business credibility, and hold business funds in stable USD accounts outside Argentina's currency controls.
Protection from Peso Devaluation and Inflation
Argentina has experienced persistent high inflation and repeated peso (ARS) devaluations. A Wyoming LLC with a US bank account allows Argentine entrepreneurs to receive, hold, and manage business earnings in USD. This protects against the loss of purchasing power that comes from holding ARS. Business revenue stays in USD until you choose to convert.
Bypassing Currency Controls (Cepo Cambiario)
Argentina's currency controls restrict how much USD individuals and businesses can purchase through the official banking system. The gap between the official exchange rate and the parallel ("blue dollar") rate creates additional complexity. A Wyoming LLC with a US bank account operates entirely in the US banking system, outside these restrictions. You receive USD payments directly into your Mercury or Relay account.
Access to Stripe US with USD Payouts
While Stripe is available in Argentina, Argentine Stripe accounts receive payouts in ARS at the official exchange rate. A Wyoming LLC enables registration for Stripe US, which pays out in USD directly to your US bank account. This means you receive the full dollar value of your sales. Learn more about Stripe for Wyoming LLC non-residents.
US Business Credibility
A Wyoming LLC adds credibility when invoicing US and international clients. Argentine tech workers, designers, and developers who contract with US companies benefit from invoicing through a US entity. US clients prefer contracting with US-registered businesses for tax and legal simplicity.
Access to US Banking
Mercury Bank and Relay Bank accept non-resident Wyoming LLC owners from Argentina. These US bank accounts enable ACH transfers, wire transfers, and integration with US payment processors. Argentine banks like Banco Nacion, Banco Galicia, and BBVA Argentina face limitations on international payment processing. Read the full guide on US bank account for Wyoming LLC non-residents.
Asset Protection and Privacy
Wyoming provides charging order protection for single-member LLCs and does not require member names in public records. This protects both your assets and privacy. Learn about Wyoming LLC asset protection.
Low Cost and No State Income Tax
Wyoming charges $100 to form an LLC and $60/year for the annual report. Wyoming has no state income tax, no corporate tax, and no franchise tax. A single-member LLC with no US-source income pays $0 in US federal income tax.
| Benefit | What Argentine Residents Get |
|---|---|
| USD protection | Hold earnings in USD, avoid ARS devaluation |
| Stripe US | USD payouts instead of ARS payouts |
| US banking | Mercury, Relay, Wise Business accounts |
| Cepo bypass | Receive USD outside Argentine currency controls |
| Credibility | US business entity for client trust |
| Asset protection | Charging order protection |
| Tax advantages | No Wyoming state income tax |
How do Argentine residents form a Wyoming LLC step by step?
Argentine residents form a Wyoming LLC in 6 steps: choose a name, appoint a registered agent, file Articles of Organization, obtain an EIN, create an operating agreement, and open a US bank account.
Step 1: Choose a Wyoming LLC Name
Select a unique LLC name that includes "LLC," "L.L.C.," or "Limited Liability Company." Search the Wyoming Secretary of State business database to confirm availability. The name must differ from existing Wyoming businesses. Use English characters only.
Step 2: Appoint a Wyoming Registered Agent
Select a professional registered agent service with a physical Wyoming street address. The registered agent receives legal documents and government mail on behalf of the LLC. Cost ranges from $25 to $100 per year. Learn about Wyoming LLC registered agent requirements.
Step 3: File Articles of Organization
Submit Articles of Organization online through the Wyoming Secretary of State. Pay the $100 state filing fee with an international credit or debit card. Wyoming processes online filings in 1-3 business days. Expedited 24-hour processing costs $50 extra. See the full process at how to form a Wyoming LLC as a non-resident.
Step 4: Obtain an EIN from the IRS
Complete IRS Form SS-4 and fax to (855) 641-6935. Enter "Foreign" in the SSN field. The IRS processes faxed applications in 4-8 weeks for international applicants. No fee is charged. Read the full guide on EIN for non-residents without SSN.
Step 5: Create an Operating Agreement
Draft an operating agreement that defines LLC ownership and management. Banks require this document during account opening. A single-member operating agreement is typically 1-3 pages. WyomingLLC.co includes this in formation packages.
Step 6: Open a US Business Bank Account
Apply to Mercury Bank or Relay Bank with Articles of Organization, EIN confirmation letter, operating agreement, and Argentine passport or DNI. Approval takes 1-5 business days. Both banks accept Argentine residents.
| Step | Timeline | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Choose LLC name | Same day | $0 |
| Appoint registered agent | Same day | $25-$100/year |
| File Articles of Organization | 1-3 business days | $100 |
| Obtain EIN (fax) | 4-8 weeks | $0 |
| Create operating agreement | Same day | $0-$200 |
| Open US bank account | 1-5 business days | $0 |
Ready to form your Wyoming LLC from Argentina? The process takes 1-3 business days to start.
Start on WhatsApp — FreeHow do Argentine residents get an EIN from the IRS?
Argentine residents obtain an EIN by submitting IRS Form SS-4 by fax. The IRS does not require a Social Security Number for international applicants. Processing takes 4-8 weeks.
What Is an EIN?
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a 9-digit tax ID the IRS assigns to US business entities. Every Wyoming LLC needs an EIN to open a US bank account, register for Stripe, and file tax returns. Read the full guide on EIN for non-residents without SSN.
How to Complete Form SS-4 from Argentina
- Line 1: Enter the exact LLC name as filed with Wyoming.
- Line 4a-b: Enter the registered agent's Wyoming address.
- Line 7a: Enter your full legal name as the responsible party.
- Line 7b: Enter "Foreign" (no SSN required).
- Line 8a: Check "Limited Liability Company."
- Line 8b: Enter "1" for single-member LLCs.
- Line 9a: Check "Started new business" and describe your activity.
Where to Fax Form SS-4
Fax the completed Form SS-4 to: (855) 641-6935
Include a cover sheet with your name, phone number with Argentina country code (+54), and email address. The IRS will fax or mail the EIN confirmation letter (CP 575) within 4-8 weeks.
| Method | Processing Time | SSN Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Online application | Immediate | Yes (not available to Argentine residents) |
| Fax to (855) 641-6935 | 4-8 weeks | No |
| Mail to Cincinnati, OH | 2-3 months | No |
Important: Do not use the IRS online EIN application. The system requires a US SSN or ITIN and will reject your application after you enter all information. Use fax submission only.
How do Argentine residents open a US bank account?
Argentine residents with a Wyoming LLC and EIN can open US business bank accounts through Mercury Bank or Relay Bank. Both banks accept non-resident owners and offer 100% online account opening without a US visit.
Mercury Bank for Argentine Residents
Mercury Bank accepts non-resident Wyoming LLC owners from Argentina. Mercury offers no monthly fees, no minimum balance, ACH transfers, wire transfers, virtual debit cards, and physical debit cards shipped internationally. Read the full guide on Mercury Bank for Wyoming LLC.
Relay Bank for Argentine Residents
Relay Bank is another online business bank that accepts non-resident Wyoming LLC owners. Relay offers multiple business accounts, debit cards, expense management, and integrations with accounting software. Learn more about Relay Bank for Wyoming LLC.
Why US Banking Matters for Argentine Residents
Argentine banking is subject to currency controls that limit USD access. Argentine banks enforce restrictions on dollar purchases and international transfers. A US bank account through Mercury or Relay operates entirely outside these restrictions. Your business revenue arrives in USD and stays in USD until you decide to convert.
Traditional Argentine banks like Banco Galicia, Banco Nacion, BBVA Argentina, and Santander Rio cannot provide the same level of international payment processing integration that Mercury and Relay offer.
Required Documents for US Bank Account Opening
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Approved Articles of Organization | Proves LLC exists legally |
| EIN Confirmation Letter (CP 575) | Verifies tax ID number |
| Operating Agreement | Establishes ownership and authority |
| Argentine Passport or DNI | Identity verification |
| Proof of Argentina address | May be requested for verification |
How do Argentine residents access Stripe with a Wyoming LLC?
A Wyoming LLC enables Argentine residents to register for Stripe US, which provides USD payouts instead of the ARS payouts from Argentine Stripe accounts.
Stripe Argentina vs. Stripe US
Stripe is available in Argentina, but Argentine Stripe accounts pay out in ARS at the official exchange rate. This means Argentine entrepreneurs lose significant value compared to receiving USD. A Wyoming LLC allows registration for Stripe US, which pays out in USD directly to your Mercury or Relay account.
Stripe Requirements for Wyoming LLC
| Requirement | How Wyoming LLC Provides It |
|---|---|
| US business entity | Wyoming LLC registration |
| US EIN | IRS Form SS-4 application |
| US bank account | Mercury or Relay account |
| Business website | Active website showing products/services |
| Passport verification | Argentine passport upload |
How to Set Up Stripe with Wyoming LLC
- Visit stripe.com and click "Start now."
- Select "United States" as the country.
- Enter your Wyoming LLC name exactly as registered.
- Provide the EIN when prompted.
- Enter Mercury or Relay bank account details.
- Upload your Argentine passport for verification.
- Provide your Argentina residential address.
- Submit and wait for approval (1-3 business days).
Read the complete guide on Stripe for Wyoming LLC non-residents.
Stripe Fees for US LLC Accounts
Stripe charges 2.9% + $0.30 per successful card charge for online transactions. International cards add 1% additional fee. Currency conversion costs 1% if needed. There are no monthly fees or setup fees.
What are the tax implications for Argentine LLC owners?
Argentine residents must report Wyoming LLC income to AFIP (Administracion Federal de Ingresos Publicos). The LLC itself pays no US federal income tax if it has no US-source income and is owned by a non-resident.
US Tax Obligations
A single-member Wyoming LLC owned by an Argentine resident with no US-source income pays $0 in US federal income tax. Wyoming has no state income tax. The LLC is a disregarded entity for US tax purposes.
However, foreign-owned single-member LLCs must file IRS Form 5472 with a pro-forma Form 1120 annually. This form reports transactions between the LLC and foreign owner. The deadline is April 15. The penalty for non-filing is $25,000. Learn about Form 5472 for Wyoming LLC non-residents.
Argentina Tax Obligations (AFIP)
Argentine residents must report worldwide income to AFIP. LLC income is taxable in Argentina under the Impuesto a las Ganancias (income tax). Individual income tax rates in Argentina are progressive, reaching up to 35%. Business income earned through foreign entities must be declared in your annual tax filing (Declaracion Jurada).
Argentine tax law requires reporting of foreign assets and income through the Bienes Personales (personal property tax) and Ganancias filings. Failure to report foreign LLC ownership can result in penalties from AFIP.
US-Argentina Tax Treaty Status
Argentina does not have a comprehensive income tax treaty with the United States. There is a limited agreement on exchange of tax information, but no formal Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA). Since the Wyoming LLC pays $0 in US federal tax on non-US-source income, double taxation is generally not a practical issue.
| Tax/Filing | US Obligation | Argentina Obligation |
|---|---|---|
| Income tax | $0 (if no US-source income) | Yes, report to AFIP (Ganancias, up to 35%) |
| State income tax | $0 (Wyoming has none) | N/A |
| Form 5472 | Required annually | N/A |
| Wyoming annual report | $60/year | N/A |
| Foreign asset reporting | N/A | Bienes Personales filing |
| Tax treaty | No comprehensive US-Argentina tax treaty | |
How do Argentine residents withdraw money from a Wyoming LLC?
Argentine residents withdraw funds from their Wyoming LLC using Wise, Payoneer, or cryptocurrency conversions. Argentina's currency controls make traditional wire transfers less practical than in other countries.
Wise (Formerly TransferWise)
Wise supports transfers from USD to ARS. Wise uses competitive exchange rates and transparent fees. Create an account at wise.com, verify your identity with your Argentine passport, link your Mercury or Relay US bank account, and initiate transfers to your Argentine bank account.
Payoneer
Payoneer is popular among Argentine freelancers and entrepreneurs. Payoneer provides a USD receiving account, local ARS withdrawals, and the Payoneer prepaid Mastercard. The Payoneer card works at Argentine ATMs and for online purchases. Learn about Wise Business for Wyoming LLC.
Direct Wire Transfer
Mercury and Relay support international wire transfers. Wire transfers to Argentine banks are subject to the official exchange rate and currency control regulations. Wire transfers cost $15-45 per transfer. The exchange rate applied by Argentine banks may be less favorable than Wise or Payoneer.
Argentina Currency Control Considerations
Argentina's cepo cambiario affects how funds are received and converted. The official exchange rate, MEP (dolar bolsa), CCL (contado con liquidacion), and blue dollar rate all differ. Argentine residents should consult a local financial advisor to determine the most efficient method for receiving USD from their Wyoming LLC while complying with BCRA (Banco Central de la Republica Argentina) regulations.
| Method | Fees | Timeline | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wise | Low (0.5-1%) | 1-2 business days | Regular transfers, transparent rates |
| Payoneer | Medium (1-2%) | 1-3 business days | Card access, ATM withdrawals in ARS |
| Wire transfer | $15-45 per transfer | 1-5 business days | Large amounts, official rate |
Tip: Many Argentine entrepreneurs keep the majority of their business funds in their US bank account and only transfer to Argentina what they need for local expenses. This protects earnings from peso devaluation and inflation.
WyomingLLC.co handles LLC formation, EIN application, and bank account guidance for Argentine residents — $297 flat fee.
Start on WhatsApp — FreeWhat mistakes do Argentine residents make when forming a Wyoming LLC?
Argentine residents make several avoidable mistakes when forming Wyoming LLCs. Understanding these errors saves time, money, and legal complications.
Mistake 1: Using the IRS Online EIN Application
The IRS online EIN application requires a US SSN or ITIN. Argentine residents without these documents will waste time completing the form only to receive a rejection. Use the fax method exclusively with Form SS-4.
Mistake 2: Not Filing Form 5472
Foreign-owned single-member LLCs must file IRS Form 5472 annually by April 15. The penalty for not filing is $25,000 per form. Many Argentine LLC owners learn about this requirement too late.
Mistake 3: Not Reporting to AFIP
Argentine residents must report worldwide income and foreign assets to AFIP. Failing to declare Wyoming LLC income and the foreign bank account in your Ganancias and Bienes Personales filings can result in severe penalties. Consult an Argentine contador (accountant) familiar with foreign business structures.
Mistake 4: Registering for Argentine Stripe Instead of US Stripe
Some Argentine residents register for Stripe Argentina instead of Stripe US. Argentine Stripe pays out in ARS at the official rate, which represents a significant loss compared to USD payouts. Always register for Stripe US using your Wyoming LLC details.
Mistake 5: Mixing Personal and Business Funds
Combining personal expenses with LLC funds weakens the liability protection the LLC provides. Keep business and personal finances completely separate. Use the Mercury or Relay account exclusively for LLC business transactions.
Mistake 6: Ignoring Wyoming Annual Report
The Wyoming annual report costs $60 and must be filed each year. Missing this filing can result in the LLC being administratively dissolved, which disrupts banking and payment processing. Set a calendar reminder.
Frequently asked questions about Wyoming LLC for Argentine residents
Can Argentine residents form a Wyoming LLC?
Yes. Argentine citizens can legally form and own a Wyoming LLC without a US address, Social Security Number, or visa. Wyoming law allows citizens of any country to form LLCs. Argentina is not on any US sanctions list.
How much does a Wyoming LLC cost for Argentine residents?
A Wyoming LLC costs $100 for the state filing fee plus $60/year for the annual report. Registered agent services cost $25-$100/year. Total first-year cost ranges from $185 to $260. WyomingLLC.co offers a complete package for $297. See pricing details.
Does a Wyoming LLC help avoid peso devaluation?
Yes. A Wyoming LLC with a US bank account allows Argentine entrepreneurs to receive and hold USD directly, protecting earnings from Argentine peso (ARS) devaluation and inflation.
Does Argentina have a tax treaty with the United States?
No. Argentina does not have a comprehensive income tax treaty with the United States. Since the LLC pays $0 in US federal tax on non-US-source income, double taxation is generally not a practical concern.
Can Argentine residents access Stripe US with a Wyoming LLC?
Yes. A Wyoming LLC enables registration for Stripe US with USD payouts, unlike Argentine Stripe which only pays out in ARS at the official exchange rate.
How do Argentina's currency controls affect my Wyoming LLC?
Argentina's cepo cambiario restricts USD purchases and transfers through Argentine banks. A Wyoming LLC with a US bank account operates outside these restrictions since funds are held in a US institution.
What must I report to AFIP about my Wyoming LLC?
You must report LLC income in your Impuesto a las Ganancias filing and declare the US bank account and LLC ownership in your Bienes Personales filing. Consult an Argentine contador for specific guidance.
What tax forms must Argentine LLC owners file in the US?
Argentine LLC owners must file IRS Form 5472 with a pro-forma Form 1120 annually by April 15. The penalty for non-filing is $25,000. The Wyoming annual report costs $60/year. No US income tax is owed if the LLC has no US-source income.
Form your Wyoming LLC from Argentina today. $297 flat fee includes LLC formation, EIN, operating agreement, and bank account guidance.
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