UK Ltd vs US LLC / C-Corp for International Founders
The UK Ltd and the US Delaware LLC or C-Corp are the two most globally recognised company structures for English-speaking founders. The UK offers simplicity and fast formation. The US is unmatched for VC fundraising (C-Corp) and offers a highly flexible structure (LLC). Both can be formed by non-residents without visiting the country.
Side-by-side comparison
Our verdict
UK
Best for founders who want a widely recognised, low-maintenance entity for invoicing international clients or building a credible professional profile.
US (Delaware)
Best for founders raising US venture capital (C-Corp), wanting pass-through taxation flexibility (LLC), or needing a US legal entity for contracts, payments, or banking.
Frequently asked questions
Should I form a UK Ltd or a US LLC as a freelancer?
If you work mainly with UK or European clients, a UK Ltd is simpler and less expensive to maintain. If you work primarily with US clients or platforms that prefer a US entity, a Delaware LLC (pass-through taxation, no corporate tax at the entity level for most non-US members) is a strong choice. Both can be formed without visiting the respective country.
Do I need a US bank account for a Delaware LLC?
Not strictly, but it is helpful for receiving USD payments and using US services. Many international founders use Wise, Mercury, or Relay for their US entities. A US EIN (Employer Identification Number) is required before opening a US bank account — Nomadic Go provides EIN support as part of our US formation service.
Is a US C-Corp required for raising VC in the UK?
No — many UK and European VC rounds are done through a UK Ltd or other European structure. However, if you are raising from US VCs or planning a US-based cap table with SAFE notes or preferred stock, a Delaware C-Corp is strongly preferred by US investors.
Can Nomadic Go form a UK Ltd and a US LLC for me?
Yes. Nomadic Go provides formation services for both the UK and US (Delaware LLC and C-Corp). Government filing fees are separate from our service fee. We also provide EIN support for US entities.
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