Under U.S. tax law, a non-U.S. citizen may own shares in a C corporation, but may not retain shares in an S corporation. The U.S. tax rules dictate that non-U.S. citizens cannot be shareholders of S corporations.

Who can own an C Corp?

Forming a C Corporation “A C corporation can consist of one person, anybody over the age of majority. There is no restriction,” says Cliff Ennico, an attorney and nationally syndicated small business columnist and author of Small Business Survival Guide (Adams Media 2005).

Can Corporations have foreign investors?

Yes, while foreign individuals cannot be owners of S Corporations, they most certainly can be owners of an LLC (or a C Corporation or Limited Partnership). In fact, most investors from outside the United States utilize the LLC for their real estate investments.

Under U.S. tax law, a non-U.S. citizen may own shares in a C corporation, but may not retain shares in an S corporation. S corporations allow shareholders (owners) to report their portion of business income and expenses on their personal income tax returns and avoid corporate level taxation.

Can a non u.s.citizen own an S corporation?

(Under US tax law, a nonresident alien may own shares in a C corporation, but may not own any shares in an S corporation.) For this reason, many foreign citizens form a limited liability company (LLC) instead of a corporation.

Can a foreigner be a shareholder of a US corporation?

Yes, under the U.S. tax code, a foreigner, non-citizen, resident alien may be an S corp shareholder. Said another way, an S corporation can be owned by a foreigner, non-citizen, resident alien. However, an S corporation generally cannot be owned by a nonresident alien. Many owners of companies in the United States are not citizens.

Who are the common shareholders of a C corporation?

What is a C Corporation? C corporations are the most common type of corporation organized by companies in the United States. Preferred shareholders and common shareholders are investors in a corporation with apportioned rights to earnings distribution, and some influence on board decisions.

What are the requirements for a C corporation?

C corporations must also issue stocks to initial shareholders to meet eligibility requirements. Maintenance of a C corporation organization must be evidenced in administration and record of regular director and shareholder meetings.