Open a US Bank Account as a Non-Resident

For any startup aiming to enter the global market, opening a U.S. business bank account can be a game-changer. Whether you're launching a tech startup, managing an e-commerce brand, or building a SaaS platform, a U.S. bank account is often essential — especially if you want to work with platforms like Stripe, PayPal, Amazon FBA, or attract international investors.

If you're not a U.S. resident or citizen, the process might seem intimidating. But the truth is: you can legally open a U.S. business bank account as a non-resident. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know — from company formation to choosing the right bank — so you can confidently manage your startup’s finances from anywhere in the world.

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Why Open a U.S. Bank Account?

Here are some key reasons startups prefer to open a U.S. bank account:

• Access to Stripe, PayPal, Amazon, and other U.S. payment processors

• Accept payments in USD without currency conversion losses

• Improve customer and investor trust with a U.S.-based financial presence

• Easier access to U.S. venture capital and accelerator programs

• Faster and cheaper domestic ACH transfers within the U.S.

Whether you’re a digital-first entrepreneur or selling physical products, a U.S. account simplifies international business operations.

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What You Need to Open a U.S. Bank Account as a Non-Resident

To open a U.S. business bank account, you’ll need the following:

1. A U.S.-Registered Company (LLC or Corporation)

You must have a U.S.-based company to open a business bank account. The most common type is an LLC (Limited Liability Company).
Delaware, Wyoming, and New Mexico are the most popular states due to low costs, privacy protection, and business-friendly regulations.

You can register your company online through services like Firstbase, Doola, or LegalZoom.

2. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

This is your company’s U.S. tax ID, issued by the IRS. It’s required for opening a bank account. You can apply for an EIN via fax, phone, or through third-party services.

3. Business Documents

Most banks require:

• Articles of Organization (proof of company formation)

• EIN confirmation letter from the IRS

• Passport or government-issued ID of the owner

• U.S. business address (can be virtual)

• Business activity description

4. A U.S. Business Address

Banks require a U.S. address for your company. This doesn’t need to be a physical office; you can use a virtual office or registered agent address (offered by most LLC formation providers).

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Two Main Ways to Open a U.S. Bank Account as a Non-Resident

Option 1: Visit the U.S. in Person

Some non-resident entrepreneurs choose to visit the U.S. to open a bank account in person at a traditional bank branch. The benefits of this approach include:

• Access to a wider range of banks

• Stronger relationships with financial institutions

• More options for credit and financing

Popular banks include:

• Bank of America

• JPMorgan Chase

• Wells Fargo

• Citibank

Requirements typically include company formation documents, EIN, passport, and a U.S. address. However, traveling to the U.S. is costly and time-consuming, so it’s not ideal for early-stage or remote founders.

Option 2: Open an Account Remotely (Online)

Fortunately, today’s fintech and neobank solutions allow non-residents to open U.S. business accounts entirely online — no travel required.

Here are the best options:

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Best Online U.S. Business Banks for Non-Residents

Mercury

Mercury is a U.S.-based digital banking platform built for startups.

• 100% online application

• No monthly fees

• ACH, wire transfers, and virtual cards included

• FDIC-insured through partner banks

• Works seamlessly with Stripe, PayPal, Amazon, Shopify

• Offers API access for advanced features

To apply, you’ll need:

• A U.S. LLC or Corporation

• EIN

• Company formation documents

• Passport or ID

• A U.S. address

Applications are reviewed manually and approved within 3–7 business days.

Relay

Relay is another excellent online banking solution for U.S. LLCs.

• Free checking accounts

• Multiple user access and team permissions

• Integrated expense tracking

• Accounting software integration (QuickBooks, Xero)

It’s ideal for small businesses, especially those with remote teams.

Wise (Formerly TransferWise)

Wise Business accounts let you hold and send money in multiple currencies.

• Provides U.S. bank account details (ACH and wire)

• Perfect for international startups

• Fast and low-fee currency conversions

• Works with Stripe (in some cases)

Wise’s U.S. banking partner is Evolve Bank & Trust, and accounts are easy to set up online. However, it may not be accepted by all platforms.

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How the Online Application Process Works

Here’s how most online banks work:

1. Go to the platform’s website and fill out the signup form

2. Upload your company documents and ID

3. Provide your business address and EIN

4. Wait for manual review (1–7 business days)

5. Once approved, access your dashboard and bank account info

6. Connect your account to Stripe, PayPal, or Amazon

After setup, you’ll receive:

• Routing number (for ACH payments)

• Account number (for domestic and international transfers)

• SWIFT/BIC code (for international wires)

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Integrating Your Bank Account with Stripe and Amazon

If you’re planning to sell products or accept payments online, integrating your U.S. bank account with payment platforms is essential.

Stripe Requirements:

• Bank account in your company’s name

• U.S. routing number and account number

• EIN and U.S. business address

• Website and product details

Stripe will deposit a small test amount to verify your account, and you’ll be able to receive payments in USD directly to your new U.S. account.

Amazon Seller Requirements:

To use Amazon FBA or Amazon Seller Central, you must have:

• A valid U.S. bank account

• A U.S.-registered business

• Tax details (EIN)

• Bank name, account number, and routing number

Using Mercury, Relay, or Wise ensures compatibility with Amazon and other major platforms.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a U.S. bank account without being a citizen?

Yes. As a non-resident, you can open a U.S. business bank account by forming an LLC or Corporation and submitting the required documents.

Do I need to travel to the U.S.?

No. With online banks like Mercury and Relay, you can open an account completely remotely.

Can I use a virtual address?

Yes. Most banks accept virtual addresses as long as they are associated with a registered business in the U.S.

What if my application is rejected?

You can try applying with another bank or double-check your documents for errors. Some rejections happen due to mismatched company info or unclear business models.

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Which Option Is Best for Your Startup?

If you’re a newly formed startup and want fast access to a U.S. account, Mercury or Relay is likely your best option. They're fast, free, and designed with global founders in mind.

If you need traditional banking features like checkbooks, credit lines, or in-person services, visiting a physical U.S. bank branch might be worth it — especially for high-volume businesses or startups seeking VC funding.