Many software houses and tech agencies in some countries like Pakistan, India and Bangladesh create a virtual presence in the USA or Canada using various strategies, even if they don’t have a physical office there. Here’s how they do it:
Virtual Offices
They rent virtual office spaces from companies like Regus, WeWork, Opus, or Servcorp. These services provide a local business address, mail handling, and even receptionists who answer calls with the company’s name.
Google My Business (GMB) Optimization
They use virtual addresses to register on Google Maps. Some use co-working spaces, PO boxes (in some cases), or even friends’ or relatives’ addresses in the USA/Canada.
Business Incorporation
Many register as LLCs (Limited Liability Companies) in the USA or Canada. Services like Stripe Atlas, ZenBusiness, and LegalZoom help them get a legal business address and an EIN (Employer Identification Number).
Local Phone Numbers
They buy virtual phone numbers using services like Google Voice, Grasshopper, RingCentral, or VoIP providers. Calls to these numbers are forwarded to their team in Pakistan.
Hiring Local Representatives
Some hire freelancers or representatives in the USA/Canada to attend meetings, handle inquiries, or maintain credibility.
Using Partner Offices
They collaborate with companies that have physical offices and list their address as their own.
Fake Listings (Risky Approach)
Some companies illegally use random addresses to appear on maps, but this violates Google’s policies and can lead to business suspension. Most reputable companies use legal methods like virtual offices, incorporation, and VoIP solutions to establish their presence.
Why Companies Create a Virtual Presence?
Many global businesses and freelancers use virtual offices, remote teams, and incorporation strategies to operate internationally. However, if a company falsely claims to have a physical office when it doesn’t, that can be misleading. Following factors may drive companies to create a virtual presence.
Client Trust & Credibility
- Many U.S. and Canadian clients prefer working with “local” companies due to trust issues.
- Having a U.S. or Canadian address makes a company seem more legitimate.
Higher-Value Clients & Better Pricing
- Clients in the West often hesitate to outsource to Pakistan or India due to stereotypes about quality and reliability.
- A U.S./Canada presence allows companies to charge higher rates than typical offshore firms.
Access to Payment Solutions
- Platforms like Stripe, PayPal, and U.S. bank accounts are often required for international payments. Clients prefer these services because they are convenient and secure.
- Registering an LLC in the U.S. or Canada makes it easier to set up these services (PayPal, Stripe).
Easier Business Deals & Partnerships
- Many Western businesses prefer working with companies registered in their country.
- It helps Pakistani companies form partnerships, get contracts, and enter new markets.
Marketing & SEO Benefits
- A company appearing in U.S. or Canadian search results has a higher chance of attracting clients.
- Google favors businesses with local addresses for certain keywords.
Is It Ethical?
- Legal & Transparent Approach: If a company uses a registered virtual office, clearly mentions that it operates remotely, and provides honest information, it’s ethical.
- Misleading Clients: If a business falsely claims to have a physical office or employees in a country where it doesn’t, it can be considered dishonest.
Many companies do this to compete in a global market, gain trust, and access better opportunities—not necessarily to deceive clients.