Why Non-Residents Need a US Business Account
If you’re running a business from outside the US but selling to US customers, especially through platforms like Amazon, Stripe, or Shopify, a US business account is always an essential thing to have.
Here’s why it matters:
Get Paid Faster and in USD
Many US-based marketplaces, payment processors, and clients prefer (or even require) a US bank account. Without one, you might face slow transfers, extra fees, or even the inability to receive payments altogether.
Build Trust and Credibility
A US bank account, paired with an LLC, gives your business a more professional image. It shows customers, partners, and suppliers that you’re serious and established.
Avoid Expensive Currency Conversions
Getting paid directly in US dollars helps you dodge multiple exchange rate markups. You get to hold and spend in USD without losing money on every transfer.
Unlock Access to More Tools
Many business tools and integrations (like PayPal, Stripe, and QuickBooks) work best or only with a US business account. A US bank account is often required for account verification.
Stay Compliant
Having a US business account helps keep your books clean and your tax filings easier to manage, especially if you’re using a US LLC or corporation.
Luckily, there are now several foreigner-friendly banks that US entrepreneurs can turn to without ever setting foot in America. We’ll walk you through the top options next.
What to Look for as a Non-US Resident
Not all business accounts are created equal, especially if you’re not a US citizen or resident. Some banks may reject your application outright, while others are built to support you from day one.
Here are the top things to look for when choosing the right account:
Global Access
Make sure you can open and manage the account fully online. As a non-resident, you’ll need a platform that doesn’t require in-person visits or a US address.
Non-Resident Friendly Requirements
Some banks still require a US Social Security Number (SSN), but that’s a dealbreaker for most foreign business owners. Look for services that accept your EIN, passport, and proof of business registration instead.
Low or No Monthly Fees
Avoid banks that charge high monthly maintenance or hidden international fees. Plenty of modern options offer zero fees and transparent pricing.
Multi-Currency Support
This is a big one. If your customers are global, you’ll benefit from being able to hold, receive, and convert multiple currencies, especially USD, EUR, and GBP.
Integrations and Tools
The best providers offer additional features such as virtual cards, invoicing, expense tracking, and accounting integrations. These tools help you manage your business from anywhere in the world.
Quick Setup
Look for platforms that make the process fast, ideally in just a few days after submitting your documents. Time is money, especially when your business is ready to launch.
These features are what set the best US banking fintechs for foreigners apart from traditional banks that still require you to walk into a branch. Up next, we’ll compare the most popular business banking options available to non-US residents.
Top US Business Account Options for Non-Residents
Now that you know what to look for, let’s break down the top business banking options that are open to foreign entrepreneurs. Each of these platforms has unique features, so this fintech bank comparison will help you choose what fits your needs best.
Adro
- Supports non-residents? Yes, built specifically for global founders
- Best for: All-in-one business setup and banking
Highlights:
- Fast onboarding for foreign-owned LLCs
- No SSN required
- Offers deposit insurance
- Integrates with company registration services
- Includes US business address
- Live customer support
- Assists with business registration in the US
Adro is designed with non-US business owners in mind. If you already have your LLC and EIN, you can open an account quickly. If not, Adro can help you get both.
Wise (formerly TransferWise)
- Supports non-residents? Yes
- Best for: Holding and sending multiple currencies
Highlights:
- Multi-currency account (USD, EUR, GBP, etc.)
- Local bank details in the US, UK, EU, and more
- Transparent fees and great exchange rates
- No monthly fees
Wise is ideal for foreign sellers or freelancers who deal with clients around the world. You can receive payments in USD with US bank details, without needing a US presence.
An important note, Wise does not offer deposit insurance, unlike traditional banks or fintechs that work directly with banks. The risk when opening an account with no insurance is that if the financial institution somehow fails, your money will be at risk, and your business might suffer huge losses, even potentially jeopardizing the business’s ability to operate.
Mercury
- Supports non-residents? Yes, with a US company and EIN
- Best for: Startups and tech companies
Highlights:
- Free to open and maintain
- Virtual and physical debit cards
- Integrates with accounting tools and Stripe
- Clean, modern dashboard
Mercury is widely used by founders globally, especially in the tech space. However, you’ll need a registered US company and address to qualify.
Brex
- Supports non-residents? Somewhat (depends on your business structure)
- Best for: VC-backed startups and large teams
Highlights:
- Expense tracking and team cards
- Credit card with no personal guarantee
- Lots of business perks and discounts
Brex is powerful but more selective. It’s often best for companies with US investors or traction. Not all foreign owners will be eligible, but it’s worth a look if you meet the criteria.
Airwallex
- Supports non-residents? Yes
- Best for: Global payments and scaling internationally
Highlights:
- Multi-currency accounts
- Virtual cards
- Integration with eCommerce and accounting platforms
- Easy international transfers
Airwallex is a strong choice for businesses that want to expand globally and keep currency conversion simple.
Each of these banks has something unique to offer. If you’re a foreigner looking to run a business in the US, picking the right one can make banking and growing much easier. Up next, let’s look at how to open one of these accounts.
Quick Comparison Table
Still not sure which fintech to go with? Here’s a quick side-by-side look at the five most popular US business banking options for non-residents. This will help you compare their key features at a glance.
| Fintech | Supports Non-Residents? | Best For | Monthly Fees | Extras |
| Adro | Yes | All-in-one business setup + account opening | $0 | LLC & EIN setup, free US address |
| Wise | Yes | Multi-currency payments | $0 | Local bank details in multiple countries |
| Mercury | Yes (with EIN + LLC) | Startups and tech companies | $0 | Stripe integration, virtual cards |
| Brex | Limited | VC-backed startups | $0 | Corporate cards, team spending control |
| Airwallex | Yes | Global eCommerce + international scale | $0 | Virtual cards, FX-friendly transfers |
Remember, all of these platforms are online-first, so you won’t need to visit a US bank branch. However, most still require your business to be officially registered in the US (with an EIN and LLC).
How to Choose the Right One for You
With so many great options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry—choosing the right US business account as a non-resident comes down to a few simple questions.
Here’s how to narrow it down:
What stage is your business in?
If you’re just starting a business with international customers and suppliers, go for a multi-currency account like Wise. But if you anticipate carrying 6-figure balances in your account, you’ll want to look for a business account with deposit insurance to protect yourself.
If you’re already established, wanting to expand your US presence, you might prefer something like Adro, especially if you’re scaling and need more tools.
Do you need to accept international payments?
If you sell globally or get paid in different currencies, look at Wise or Airwallex. Both make cross-border transactions cheaper and smoother.
Are you working with US clients or platforms?
Some tools like Stripe, Amazon, and Shopify prefer or require a US bank account. Make sure the bank you pick integrates easily with these platforms. Adro, Mercury, and Brex all do a good job here.
Do you care about extra features?
Want virtual cards, spending control, or a sleek dashboard? Brex and Mercury shine in this area.
Need help setting everything up from scratch? Adro is a solid choice with a knowledgeable, US-based customer support team.
Do you want simple, no-fuss banking?
All five options are online-based and fee-free, but Wise is often the easiest for handling basic business payments and transfers without extra fluff if you are just getting started. However, as your revenue grows then you’ll want to choose a service like Adro, which offers deposit-insured business accounts.
Final Thoughts
Opening a US business account for non-residents may sound complicated at first, but today’s fintech tools make it easier than ever. Whether you’re running an eCommerce store, freelancing internationally, or starting a tech venture, choosing the right account can help you get paid faster, build trust, and grow globally.
From all-in-one services like Adro to cross-border specialists like Wise, each option brings something valuable to the table. It all comes down to your needs and business stage.
Need help getting started with your US business bank accounts for non-residents? Visit EINwaittime.com to get your EIN faster and unlock the door to your US business banking journey.