If you're based in India and planning to launch a startup, attract international funding, or build global trust for your product, forming a U.S. C Corporation might be the right decision. Thousands of Indian entrepreneurs form C-Corps in the U.S.—especially in Delaware—to access the American market, satisfy investor expectations, and benefit from the legal and financial infrastructure of a U.S. company.
Can Indian Citizens Form a U.S. C-Corp?
Yes. Indian residents can legally form, own, and operate a C Corporation in the United States. There are no residency or citizenship restrictions, and the entire process can be completed remotely using a formation service.
How to Form a U.S. C-Corp from India
Setting up a U.S. C Corporation from India is simpler than many people think. Whether you choose to do it yourself or work with a formation platform, the process can be completed entirely online in just a few days.
First, choose your state. Delaware is the standard for startups due to its well-established legal framework and strong reputation with investors. Wyoming is also an option for simpler businesses that don’t plan to raise venture capital.
You’ll then need to hire a registered agent with a physical address in the chosen state. This person or service will receive important legal documents on your behalf.
Next, file a Certificate of Incorporation. This document officially forms your business and outlines your corporate structure and share allocation. Afterward, apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS. This is essential for tax filing, opening a business bank account, and running payroll.
Many Indian founders use platforms like Firstbase, Doola, or Clerky to take care of everything from document filing to cap table setup. These services make the process seamless and prevent errors that can delay your launch.
Common Business Models for Indian-Owned C Corporations
Indian entrepreneurs often choose the C-Corp structure for startups that plan to raise venture capital, scale a SaaS platform, or issue stock to team members. Delaware C-Corps are preferred by U.S. investors and accelerators, making them a top choice for globally-minded founders.
Whether you’re launching a tech startup, building a fintech tool, or preparing to raise a seed round, forming a C-Corp helps you build trust, streamline cross-border payments, and qualify for major platforms and funding opportunities.
To incorporate a C-Corp:
- Choose your state—Delaware is standard for startups, while Wyoming is sometimes used for simpler structures.
- Hire a registered agent in the state of incorporation.
- File a Certificate of Incorporation, which defines your corporate structure and share issuance.
- Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS for tax and banking purposes.
Formation platforms like Firstbase and Clerky help with these steps, including setting up bylaws, stock issuance, and cap table documentation.
Tax Obligations for U.S. C Corporations Formed from India
Foreign-owned C Corporations in the U.S. have just two major tax obligations each year—one at the federal level and one at the state level. These filings are straightforward and only need to be completed once per year, making compliance easier than many founders expect.
At the federal level, every C-Corp must file Form 1120, the corporate income tax return. This form is due annually by April 15 and reports your company’s income, deductions, and any taxes owed. Even if your company doesn’t earn any income, the IRS still requires that Form 1120 be filed each year. The current corporate tax rate is 21% on U.S.-source income.
On the state side, your obligations depend on where you incorporated. If your C-Corp is formed in Delaware, you must file an annual report and pay a franchise tax by March 1. The minimum fee is $225, but companies with many authorized shares may owe more.
In Wyoming, the filing is simpler—a license tax report is due each year on the anniversary month of incorporation. The minimum fee is $60 and is based on your company’s assets within the state.
Together, these federal and state filings keep your company in good standing and compliant with U.S. regulations. When handled properly, they pose little administrative burden and allow you to focus on growing your business.
How Bookmate Helps with Federal Tax Filing
Bookmate offers a completely remote, stress-free solution for filing your U.S. C-Corp’s federal taxes. There’s no paperwork for you to mail, no IRS offices to call, and no need to navigate complicated forms on your own.
We specialize in preparing and filing Form 1120 for foreign-owned corporations, ensuring that your returns are complete, compliant, and submitted on time—whether or not your company had revenue during the year.
Here’s how easy it is to work with us:
We begin with a free Zoom consultation to understand your business activity and confirm what forms you’ll need to file. We’ll answer your questions and explain what comes next.
Then we send you a digital invoice and engagement letter outlining our services—everything is handled online.
Next, we provide a secure web form that you can fill out at your convenience. You’ll upload basic documents like your EIN letter, income/expense summaries, and incorporation paperwork.
Our tax team prepares your Form 1120 and reviews it with you before submission to ensure accuracy.
Finally, we file your return via the IRS-approved method—e-filing, mailing, or faxing as required. If the IRS follows up with a notice about a return we prepared, we’ll help you respond and resolve it.
No U.S. mailing address? No problem. No need to print or sign forms. Everything can be done from India, with full transparency and professional support.
Want to make sure your U.S. C-Corp stays compliant? Book a free consultation with Bookmate and get expert support. Learn more at trybookmate.co
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Each tax situation is unique. Please consult Bookmate or a qualified advisor.
