Questions Sri Lankan founders ask us
Short, direct answers. If yours isn’t here, ask us on WhatsApp in Sinhala or English.
The basics
Can a Sri Lankan legally own a US LLC?
Yes. US states let non-residents form and own an LLC, and you don’t need a visa or a US address. You still follow Sri Lankan rules: income you earn is taxable in Sri Lanka, and the Central Bank’s foreign exchange rules apply when you send money abroad to invest. We explain both in plain language before you pay.
Will I definitely get a Stripe account?
No one can promise that. Stripe reviews every business itself. What we do is make sure your LLC, EIN, bank account, website and business description are in order before you apply, which is where most rejections come from. Read how to get Stripe in Sri Lanka for the full checklist.
Do I pay tax in Sri Lanka on this income?
Usually yes. Since 1 April 2025, income from services you provide to clients abroad and receive in foreign currency is taxed at up to 15% for individuals, and 15% for companies. A single-member US LLC owned by a non-resident usually owes no US income tax, but it must file Form 5472 with the IRS every year. Check your own case with a Sri Lankan tax adviser.
PayPal works in Sri Lanka now. Do I still need this?
Maybe not. Since May 2026, Sri Lankans with a personal PayPal account linked to Sampath Bank or Commercial Bank can receive payments from abroad (Bank of Ceylon is listed as coming soon). That’s enough if your clients happily pay you by PayPal. PayPal still lists business accounts, invoicing and checkout on your own website as coming soon, so for card payments on your site or Shopify store, subscriptions, or platforms that pay out through Stripe, you still need a company in a supported country. Read PayPal in Sri Lanka.
How do I pay Entryly from Sri Lanka?
In rupees with Dialog Genie or a bank transfer, or by card in US dollars. The rupee price uses the day’s rate and is locked when you pay.
Can I talk to someone in Sinhala?
Yes. Our WhatsApp support speaks Sinhala and English, and our Sri Lanka office is in Nugegoda.
Forming your LLC
Do I need to travel to the US or have a US address?
No. Everything is done online from Sri Lanka. Your registered agent provides the US address the state requires.
Do I need an SSN or ITIN?
No. Your LLC gets an EIN from the IRS, which is all Mercury and Stripe need from the company. You don’t need a personal US tax number.
How long does the whole thing take?
Wyoming files in 3–5 business days and Montana or Missouri in 7–14, including your EIN. Mercury and Stripe then review your applications, which usually takes a few more days.
Which state should I choose?
Montana is the most chosen: it’s cheaper and has no annual report fee until 2027. Wyoming is the fastest. Missouri is the cheapest to start. Read the best state for Sri Lankans.
Can I add a partner as a second owner?
Yes, an LLC can have more than one member. A multi-member LLC files a different US tax return (Form 1065) instead of Form 5472, so ask us before you apply.
Banks, Stripe and getting paid
Can I use my Sri Lankan bank account with Stripe?
Not with a US Stripe account. It pays out to a US bank account, which is why you open Mercury. You then move money home with Wise.
Can I use the LLC for Upwork or Fiverr?
Yes. You can register on freelance platforms as your US company and get paid to Mercury, then send money home.
What happens if Mercury or Stripe says no?
Your LLC and EIN still belong to you, and you can apply again or use another provider such as Wise Business or Payoneer. Message us and we’ll go through the options. Bank and Stripe decisions aren’t refundable.