How to Open a Business Bank Account in the USA as a Non-Resident

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How to Open a Business Bank Account in the USA as a Non-Resident

Step-by-step guidance tailored for international entrepreneurs entering the U.S. market

Opening a U.S. business bank account is a key step for any non-resident planning to do business in the United States. Whether you’re selling on Amazon, running a U.S.-registered LLC, or expanding your international operations, a U.S. account helps you get paid faster, manage taxes, and build credibility.

In this blog post, we break down exactly how to open a business bank account in the USA as a non-resident, what you need, and how iFiler makes it simple—even if you’re overseas.

🧭 Why Non-Residents Need a U.S. Business Bank Account

Before diving into the steps, here’s why opening a U.S. business bank account is so important:

  • 💵 Receive payments from U.S. platforms like Stripe, PayPal, Amazon, or Walmart.

  • 🧾 Track business income separately from personal finances.

  • 📈 Build U.S. business credit and financial history.

  • ✅ Stay compliant with IRS and U.S. reporting rules.

  • 🌐 Accept global payments in USD with lower transfer fees.

🧾 What You’ll Need to Open a U.S. Business Bank Account as a Non-Resident

Most banks, whether traditional or online (fintech), will require the following:

1. A U.S.-Registered Company

You must first form an LLC or Corporation in the U.S. (e.g., Delaware, Wyoming, Texas, etc.).

Tip: iFiler helps non-residents form companies in the USA easily with EINs and mailing addresses.

2. Employer Identification Number (EIN)

Issued by the IRS, the EIN is your company’s tax ID number—mandatory for opening any U.S. business bank account.

3. Company Formation Documents

These include:

  • Articles of Organization (LLC) or Incorporation (Corporation)

  • Certificate of Formation from the state

4. U.S. Business Address

You don’t need a physical office, but a U.S. mailing address (not a P.O. box) is required.

iFiler offers registered agent and virtual mailing services.

5. Passport or Government ID

Your valid international passport or government-issued ID will be needed for verification.

6. Operating Agreement (for LLCs)

Some banks require a company agreement showing who owns and manages the business.

🏦 Where Can Non-Residents Open a U.S. Business Bank Account?

You have two main options:

✅ Option 1: Online/Fintech Banks (Remote Opening)

These digital banks are friendly to international owners and often allow account creation without being physically in the U.S.

Examples include:

  • Mercury (Best for tech startups and e-commerce)

  • Wise Business (Great for international money transfers)

  • Relay (Good for managing multiple team members)

  • Payoneer (Ideal for Amazon/e-commerce sellers)

iFiler partners with these banks and can guide you through the process.

Pros:

  • No travel required

  • Fast approval (1–5 days)

  • Low fees and modern interface

Cons:

  • Not ideal for cash-based businesses

  • May not support all countries (check eligibility)

✅ Option 2: Traditional U.S. Banks (In-Person Opening Required)

Banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Chase often require you to visit a branch in the U.S. in person.

Pros:

  • Ideal if you visit the U.S. for business

  • Can establish personal and business banking relationships

Cons:

  • Physical presence needed

  • More documentation and longer process

🧑‍💼 Step-by-Step: How to Open a U.S. Business Bank Account as a Non-Resident

Step 1: Form a U.S. LLC or Corporation

  • Choose a business-friendly state like Delaware, Wyoming, or Texas.

  • Use iFiler to form your LLC with a registered agent, company documents, and U.S. address.

Step 2: Apply for an EIN from the IRS

  • We help non-residents apply even without an SSN or ITIN.

  • EIN is usually issued in 1–10 days.

Step 3: Choose a Banking Option

  • Decide between a fintech bank (Mercury, Wise) or a traditional U.S. bank.

Step 4: Submit Your Documents

  • Upload passport, formation papers, EIN, and address proof.

  • Some fintech banks may require a short video or identity verification.

Step 5: Get Approved & Start Banking

  • Once approved, you can send/receive payments, link Stripe/PayPal, and manage U.S. dollars.

⚠️ Important Notes for Non-Residents

  • You don’t need to visit the U.S. to get started with online banks.

  • Personal U.S. bank accounts are harder to open as a non-resident—start with a business account.

  • Opening a U.S. business bank account is legal and common for entrepreneurs around the world.

🌍 How iFiler Helps International Founders

At iFiler, we specialize in helping non-residents:

  • Register a U.S. LLC or Corporation

  • Get an EIN without an SSN

  • Provide a U.S. business address and registered agent

  • Apply for fintech bank accounts like Mercury, Wise, and Payoneer

  • Set up Stripe and PayPal integrations for e-commerce

📌 Final Thoughts

Opening a U.S. business bank account as a non-resident is 100% possible—and often simpler than you think. With the right formation, paperwork, and support, you can enter the U.S. market with full financial access.

 

Ready to get started?
Let iFiler help you open your U.S. business the right way.

 

 

🔗 Visit iFiler.us to register your company and set up your U.S. bank account—no travel needed.