How to Open a Company in the United States as a Brazilian Entrepreneur

Expanding your business to the United States is a major milestone — and one that many Brazilian entrepreneurs are pursuing to access a stronger economy, global visibility, and new opportunities for growth. While the U.S. offers one of the most business-friendly environments in the world, it also requires precise legal steps to ensure your company is properly structured, compliant, and protected.

At Zecca Ross Law Firm, we help Brazilian entrepreneurs and companies establish and expand their businesses in the United States with confidence. From entity formation to contracts and compliance, our attorneys provide the clarity and structure you need to operate successfully across borders.

Step 1: Choose the Right Business Structure

The first decision is selecting the best legal entity for your goals. The most common types are:

• LLC (Limited Liability Company) – Ideal for small to mid-sized businesses. Offers flexibility, limited liability, and simpler taxation.
• C-Corporation – Preferred by startups and businesses seeking outside investment. Allows multiple shareholders but involves more formalities.
• Partnership or Joint Venture – Used when collaborating with a U.S. partner while keeping operations flexible.

At Zecca Ross Law Firm, we analyze your business model and tax implications to recommend the structure that maximizes protection and efficiency.

Step 2: Register Your Company and Obtain an EIN

To operate legally, every business must be registered in a U.S. state and obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS.
Our team handles:

• State-level formation filings (e.g., Arizona, California, Delaware)
• Drafting operating agreements or bylaws
• Obtaining your EIN and necessary business licenses

For Brazilian founders, these documents also help with opening U.S. bank accounts and entering into contracts.

Step 3: Set Up Governance and Ownership Agreements

Clear documentation of ownership and decision-making is essential for risk prevention.
We assist clients in preparing:

• Operating agreements or shareholder agreements
• Resolutions outlining management roles
• Voting and capital contribution terms

This ensures your U.S. entity operates transparently and aligns with Brazilian parent-company policies, if applicable.

Step 4: Draft Strong, Enforceable Contracts

Operating in a new legal system requires precise documentation. Zecca Ross Law Firm prepares bilingual (Portuguese–English) contracts that meet U.S. standards while protecting your interests.
Examples include:

• Partnership or vendor agreements
• Distribution or service contracts
• Confidentiality and non-compete agreements

We ensure your contracts are enforceable under U.S. law and adapted to your business model.

Step 5: Stay Compliant

Once established, maintaining compliance is vital to avoid penalties and preserve your company’s good standing. We help with:

• Annual reports and renewals
• Corporate record keeping
• Updates to ownership or address
• Multi-state compliance if expanding

Why Brazilian Entrepreneurs Choose Zecca Ross Law Firm

• Cross-border legal experience bridging Brazil and the U.S.
• Tailored guidance for first-time foreign founders and established business owners.
• Bilingual team ensuring clarity in every step of the process.
• Proactive, business-minded counsel that focuses on long-term success.

Partner With Zecca Ross Law Firm

If you’re a Brazilian entrepreneur planning to open a company in the United States, Zecca Ross Law Firm is your trusted partner for business formation, governance, and compliance.

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