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A “U.S. Desk” is a specialized team within a law firm located outside of the United States, comprised of attorneys who are either licensed to practice in the U.S. or possess deep expertise in U.S. law. It serves as a single, integrated point of contact for the firm’s domestic clients who have legal needs in America. This structure provides clients with accessible, localized advice on complex cross-border issues without the immediate need to engage a separate, U.S.-based law firm for initial guidance.

The first legal steps for a foreign company entering the U.S. involve careful strategic planning. Initially, the company must decide on the most suitable business structure, typically a Limited Liability Company (LLC) for its flexibility or a corporation for its ability to raise capital. Next, it must select a state in which to incorporate or organize the entity. After choosing a state, the company must formally file the required registration documents and then obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

The main U.S. visa categories for foreign business professionals include the L-1 visa for intracompany transferees, which allows managers, executives, or specialized employees to move from a foreign office to a U.S. branch. The E-2 Treaty Investor visa is available to citizens of treaty countries who make a substantial investment in a U.S. business. The H-1B visa is designated for professionals in specialty occupations requiring a specific degree, and the O-1 visa is for individuals with extraordinary ability.

A foreign business can establish a U.S. entity by following a clear procedural path. The process begins with appointing a registered agent in the chosen state of incorporation. The next step is to prepare and file the official formation documents with the state’s government office—typically the Articles of Incorporation for a corporation or the Articles of Organization for an LLC. Finally, the business must draft its internal governing documents, which are the corporate bylaws or the LLC’s operating agreement.

A U.S. Desk provides essential legal support to American citizens living overseas, helping them navigate their ongoing U.S. legal responsibilities. This primarily includes advising on complex U.S. federal tax compliance, such as annual income tax filings and reporting of foreign bank accounts (FBAR). It also covers cross-border estate planning to ensure their wills and trusts are effective for assets held in multiple countries, as well as providing counsel on how their foreign investments or business activities impact their U.S. legal status.