Open a US Bank Account as a Non-Resident
Access the US financial system without moving to America. We prepare your documents and connect you with banks known to work with non-resident applicants.
Who this is for
- Foreign nationals who need to receive USD payments
- Non-resident LLC owners who need a business checking account
- E-commerce sellers who need ACH payouts from Amazon or Stripe
- International professionals paid by US employers or clients
What's included
- Bank selection guidance (personal or business account)
- Complete document checklist
- Application form preparation
- EIN coordination (for business accounts)
- Liaison with bank during the review process
How it works
Choose account type
Personal or business account depending on your entity.
Document preparation
Passport, LLC documents, EIN, proof of address.
Application submission
We submit and liaise with the bank on your behalf.
Account decision
Typically 5–15 business days. Approval is the bank's decision.
Compare jurisdictions at a glance
| Factor | Mercury | Relay | Wise Business |
|---|---|---|---|
| Account type | Business checking (LLC/Corp) | Business checking (LLC/Corp) | Multi-currency business account |
| Non-resident friendly | Yes (EIN + LLC required) | Yes (EIN + LLC required) | Yes (no US entity needed) |
| In-person visit | None - fully remote | None - fully remote | None - fully remote |
| Monthly fees | $0 basic tier | $0–$30/month | $0 basic tier |
| Debit card | Yes (virtual + physical) | Yes (virtual + physical) | Yes (Visa debit) |
| USD ACH / wire | Yes (ACH, wire, SWIFT) | Yes (ACH, wire) | Yes (SWIFT, local transfers) |
| Best for | Startups, tech, Stripe payouts | Multiple business accounts, cash flow | International payments, FX savings |
Figures are indicative. Government fees and substance rules change regularly - confirm with a qualified adviser.
Tax treatment for non-residents
Having a US bank account does not itself create US tax obligations. For non-residents, a personal US bank account is generally subject to US withholding tax (30%, or lower treaty rate) on US-source interest income. A business bank account held by a non-resident-owned LLC is subject to the LLC's own federal tax treatment - typically no US federal income tax for a foreign-owned single-member LLC with no US-source income. We do not provide tax advice; please consult a US international tax professional to confirm how US banking affects your specific situation.
Why non-residents choose this service
- Access Stripe, PayPal, and US ACH payouts - only possible with a genuine US bank account
- Receive USD wire transfers directly without conversion fees or intermediary banks
- US business checking account compatible with all major US payroll and accounting platforms
- No US address or SSN required for most online-first banks once you have a US LLC and EIN
- Full remote application - no branch visit required at Mercury, Relay, and similar fintechs
Common questions from non-residents
Do I need a US LLC to open a US business bank account?
Yes, for a US business bank account you need a US legal entity (LLC or Corporation). We offer US LLC formation as a bundled service if you don't have one yet.
Can I open a US personal bank account as a non-resident?
Some US banks and fintechs (such as Wise and Revolut) offer USD accounts to non-residents without a US entity. Traditional US banks typically require a Social Security Number and a US address. We match you to the right option for your situation.
Will having a US bank account make me a US tax resident?
No. Holding a US bank account does not affect your US tax residency status. US tax residency is determined by physical presence (the substantial presence test) or a Green Card - not by financial accounts.
Frequently asked questions
Is approval guaranteed?
No. Bank account approval is entirely at the discretion of the bank. We optimize your application to give you the best chance.
Do I need a US LLC to open a US business account?
Yes, for a business account. We offer LLC formation as a bundled service.
Can I open an account without visiting the US?
Some banks can open accounts fully remotely. Others require a branch visit. We match you with the right bank for your situation.
What documents do I need?
Typically: passport, proof of address, EIN, LLC operating agreement, and articles of organization. We provide the complete checklist.
Review before you continue
Check the listed scope, requirements, price note, and FAQs. Final decisions remain with the relevant bank, government authority, or institution.
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