Home / Guides / Company Formation
Company Formation

Company Formation Checklist

Don't miss a step. The complete pre- and post-incorporation checklist for non-resident company owners.

Start Your Formation Speak to an Expert

Who this guide is for

  • First-time company formers who want to ensure nothing is missed
  • Founders reviewing an existing company setup for gaps

The practical problem

Formation is just the beginning. Many founders form a company but skip critical post-formation steps — operating agreement, EIN, bank account — that create problems later. This checklist covers the complete formation lifecycle.

Your options

Pre-formation

✓ Jurisdiction selected. ✓ Business name availability checked. ✓ Registered agent/address arranged. ✓ Formation service chosen.

At formation

✓ Articles/Memorandum filed. ✓ Operating agreement/shareholder agreement signed. ✓ Incorporation certificate received.

Post-formation

✓ Tax ID obtained (EIN/UTR/UEN). ✓ Business bank account opened. ✓ Annual compliance calendar set up. ✓ Director/shareholder register maintained.

Documents typically needed

Common mistakes to avoid

How Nomadic Go helps

Nomadic Go handles the full formation process and provides reminders for post-formation steps. Annual compliance services keep your company in good standing.

Start Your Formation

Frequently asked questions

How long after formation should I open a bank account?

As soon as possible. Ideally within 30-60 days of formation, while your documents are fresh and dated within the bank's recency requirements.

Do I need a signed operating agreement to open a bank account?

Yes. Most banks require a signed operating agreement (for US LLC) or shareholder agreement (for Ltd companies) as part of account opening. Have this ready at or immediately after formation.

What is an EIN and do I always need one?

An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is the US federal tax ID for a business entity. You need it to open a US business bank account, file taxes, and activate payment platforms. Apply via IRS Form SS-4 after forming your US LLC.

When should I set up annual compliance tracking?

Immediately after formation. Set calendar reminders for: annual report/renewal dates (US LLC, UK confirmation statement, HK annual return, Singapore annual return), UAE trade licence renewal, and any tax return deadlines for your jurisdictions.

Is it normal for formation to take 2-4 weeks?

Processing times vary. UK Ltd on Companies House is typically 24 hours. Wyoming LLC is 5-7 business days standard or 1 day expedited. UAE free zone formation is 7-21 business days depending on the free zone and approvals required.

Related guides

Ready to get started?

Fixed price, real-time tracking, and expert handling.

Start Your Formation