March 13, 2024

From Armenian to the U.S.: Mastering Legal Operations and Compliance

Operating a Armenian business in the USA? Learn the essential legal steps—from choosing a home state to filing your beneficial ownership report—to ensure compliance and set your business up for success.

Zimbabwe businesses operating in the USA

Hello fellow Armenian business owner operating in the USA! As you navigate the complex world of compliance, legal, and beneficial ownership reporting requirements, it’s important to stay informed and up-to-date on the regulations that apply to your business. Whether you’re running a small family-owned shop in Yerevan or a tech startup in Silicon Valley, understanding and adhering to these requirements is crucial for the success and longevity of your business.

From navigating the intricacies of tax laws to ensuring transparency in your ownership structure, compliance can be a daunting task. But fear not, as we delve into the specifics of what you need to know to stay on the right side of the law and protect your business interests. So grab a cup of Armenian coffee, sit back, and let’s explore the world of compliance and legal requirements together.

Registration Requirements

The United States consists of 50 states and 5 territories, each with its own set of business regulations. To operate legally, businesses must adhere to both state-specific rules and federal laws.

State-Level Registration:

When establishing a business presence in the United States, businesses from Armenia must complete state-level registration in any state where significant business activities occur. This requirement typically applies if your company:

  • Has a physical presence in the state
  • Frequently meets with clients in the state
  • Derives a significant portion of revenue from the state
  • Has employees working in the state

Incorporating your Armenian Company in the US

Even if none of the specific criteria apply, a Armenian company must still choose a home state for registration when conducting business in the US. This involves forming a U.S. entity, such as a corporation, LLC, or other business structure, in that state. This registration ensures that the company is officially recognized and compliant with US regulations, regardless of its level of business activity in any individual state.

The newly formed U.S. entity will operate as a subsidiary of the foreign company. This means that while the U.S. entity is legally independent, it remains under the ownership and control of the parent company based in Armenia. This structure allows the company to conduct business in the US while maintaining its international headquarters.

We recommend using Northwest Registered Agent if your foreign company needs to incorporate. They offer expert guidance and can serve as a reliable registered agent for your business, ensuring compliance and smooth operations.

Federal Requirements

In addition to state requirements, Armenian companies must also comply with federal regulations:

  • Federal Tax ID: Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This number is essential for tax reporting and opening U.S. bank accounts.
  • Industry Regulations: Companies may need to follow specific federal regulations depending on the industry. For example:
  • Import/Export Laws: If the company is involved in importing or exporting goods, it must meet U.S. customs regulations. This includes adhering to rules for tariffs, duties, and necessary documentation.

Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting Requirements

For Armenian businesses conducting operations in the U.S., adhering to Beneficial Ownership Information Reporting (BOIR) requirements is crucial. The Corporate Transparency Act mandates that companies disclose the individuals who own or control them. This applies to most entities, including those that are incorporated or registered in any U.S. state. The goal is to enhance transparency and combat illicit activities such as money laundering and terrorism financing.

A beneficial owner is an individual who controls the company or owns 25% or more of its shares, either directly or indirectly. For compliance with BOIR requirements, businesses must report information about these individuals, including their names, addresses, and identification details. Failure to file this report can result in significant penalties and legal consequences. Therefore, companies from Armenia need to ensure they meet these reporting obligations promptly and accurately.

For your convenience, you can file your Beneficial Ownership Information Report directly on our website. Click here to complete the process in just a few minutes and ensure your business complies with U.S. regulations.

Legally Operating a Foreign Company in the United States

 

Additional Considerations for Armenian Businesses:

Tax Treaties

As an Armenian business operating in the USA, you can benefit from the tax treaty between the two countries. This agreement helps prevent double taxation and provides clarity on tax obligations for cross-border business activities. The treaty outlines specific provisions for various types of income, including business profits, dividends, and royalties, potentially reducing your overall tax burden. For more detailed information about the tax treaty between Armenia and the USA, click here to access official documents and resources provided by the IRS.

Trade Considerations

When conducting business with the USA, Armenian companies should be aware of the Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) signed between the two countries in 2015. This agreement aims to strengthen economic ties and promote bilateral trade and investment. However, there are no specific preferential trade agreements or free trade agreements between Armenia and the USA. Armenian businesses should carefully research and comply with US import regulations, including tariffs, quotas, and product safety standards. It’s crucial to consult the US Customs and Border Protection website for up-to-date information on import requirements. Additionally, Armenian companies should familiarize themselves with industry-specific regulations that may apply to their products or services, such as FDA regulations for food and pharmaceuticals or FCC regulations for electronic devices. Seeking guidance from trade associations or legal experts specializing in US-Armenia trade relations can help ensure compliance and smooth business operations.

Your Path to Compliance: Key Takeaways for Armenian Businesses in the U.S.

Operating a Armenian business within the USA requires careful attention to legal obligations, from establishing your home state to incorporating and filing a beneficial ownership report. Meeting these requirements is essential for ensuring compliance and securing your business’s success in the American market. By understanding and adhering to these steps, you can confidently navigate the complexities of doing business in the U.S. and focus on growing your enterprise.

Ready to get started? Click here to file your BOIR in just a few short minutes. We make the process easy, fast, and secure so you can focus on what matters—your business.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions about the Beneficial Ownership Filing process? Check out FinCEN BOI Filing's frequently asked questions for the answer.

Yes, failing to file a BOI report can result in substantial penalties, including hefty fines and potential legal repercussions. Learn more about the BOI deadlines and non-filing BOI penalties.

Filing a BOI takes about 5-10 minutes and can be done here. If you’re not sure if you are required to file, you can take the one minute BOI Eligibility Quiz.

Filing a BOI takes 5-10 minutes and can be done here. If you’re unsure if you are required to file, you can take the one minute BOI Eligibility Quiz.

You’ll need details of beneficial owners (name, address, ID number) and basic company information (name, address, registration details). Check out our ultimate guide to filing a BOI report for a complete list of items needed.

Generally, most businesses, except for some exempt categories like publicly traded companies, are required to file a BOI report. For a comprehensive list of businesses who need to file, check out the essential guide to BOI reporting.

 

The due date for BOI reports varies based on jurisdiction and specific business circumstances. You can learn more about the BOI deadlines here.

 

 

 

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  • Securities reporting issuer
  • Governmental authority
  • Bank
  • Credit union
  • Depository institution holding company
  • Money services business
  • Broker or dealer in securities
  • Securities exchange or clearing agency
  • Other Exchange Act registered entity
  • Investment company or investment adviser
  • Venture capital fund adviser
  • Insurance company
  • State-licensed insurance producer
  • Commodity Exchange Act registered entity
  • Accounting firm
  • Public utility
  • Financial market utility
  • Pooled investment vehicle
  • Tax-exempt entity
  • Entity assisting a tax-exempt entity
  • Large operating company
  • Subsidiary of certain exempt entities
  • Inactive entity