How to Open a U.S. Bank Account as a Non-U.S. Citizen

Non-US citizens can open a US bank account for their LLC. While the process is more involved than it is for US citizens, several banks and online financial platforms now accept non-resident business owners. Some even allow you to complete the entire application online without visiting a US branch. This guide explains the requirements, best banks, and step-by-step process for opening a US business bank account as a non-citizen.

Can Non-US Citizens Open a US Bank Account?

Yes. There is no law preventing non-US citizens from opening a bank account in the United States. Both personal and business bank accounts are available to foreign nationals. However, each bank sets its own policies regarding non-citizen applicants, and the requirements vary significantly from one bank to another.

Traditional banks (such as Chase and Bank of America) typically require an in-person visit to a US branch, which can be a barrier for non-residents who live outside the United States. However, several online banking platforms (such as Mercury and Relay) now allow non-US citizens to open business bank accounts entirely online, without ever visiting the US. This has made it much easier for international entrepreneurs to manage their US-based businesses.

To open a US business bank account, you will need a US business entity (such as an LLC), an EIN from the IRS, and valid identification. The specific documents required depend on the bank you choose.

Requirements for Non-Citizens

While exact requirements vary by bank, here are the documents and information you will typically need to open a US business bank account as a non-citizen:

Required documents:

• EIN (Employer Identification Number): Your LLC’s tax identification number from the IRS. This is free to obtain. See our EIN guide for instructions on applying without an SSN.
• Articles of Organization: The formation document filed with and approved by your state’s Secretary of State. This proves your LLC legally exists.
• Operating agreement: Most banks require this document, which outlines your LLC’s ownership and management structure.
• Valid passport: A government-issued photo ID from your country of citizenship. All banks require this for identity verification.
• Proof of address: A utility bill, bank statement, or government-issued document showing your current residential address (in your home country). Some banks accept a foreign address; others require a US address.

Sometimes required (depends on the bank):

• ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number): Some banks require an ITIN in addition to or instead of an EIN. You can apply for an ITIN using IRS Form W-7. See our ITIN guide for details.
• US visa or entry stamp: Some traditional banks require proof that you have legally entered the United States (for in-person account openings).
• Certificate of Good Standing: A document from your state confirming your LLC is in active and compliant status. Available from the Secretary of State’s office.
• Business license: If your industry requires one.

Best Banks for Non-US Citizens

Not all banks accept non-US citizens, and those that do have different requirements, fees, and application processes. Here are the best options:

Mercury

Mercury is the top choice for non-US citizens who want to open a US business bank account without visiting the United States. The entire application process is online, and Mercury explicitly welcomes non-resident LLC owners. There are no monthly fees, no minimum balance requirements, and no transaction fees. Mercury offers a clean online dashboard, virtual and physical debit cards, ACH transfers, domestic and international wire transfers, and integrations with popular accounting software. Mercury is a fintech company that partners with FDIC-insured banks (Choice Financial Group and Column N.A.), so your deposits are insured up to $250,000.

How to apply: Visit the Mercury website, create an account, and complete the online application. You will need your EIN, LLC formation documents, operating agreement, and a photo of your passport. Approval typically takes 1 to 5 business days.

Relay

Relay is another strong option for non-resident LLC owners. Like Mercury, Relay allows you to open a business bank account entirely online without visiting a branch. Relay offers no monthly fees, no minimum balances, and up to 20 individual checking accounts under one business, which is useful for separating funds by purpose (such as operating expenses, taxes, and payroll). Relay partners with Thread Bank, and deposits are FDIC-insured up to $250,000.

How to apply: Visit the Relay website, create an account, and follow the application steps. You will need your EIN, LLC documents, operating agreement, and passport. Approval typically takes 1 to 3 business days.

Chase

Chase is the largest bank in the United States and offers business checking accounts to non-US citizens, but you must visit a branch in person to open the account. This makes Chase a good option if you are visiting the United States or if you have someone (such as a manager or partner) who can go to a branch on your behalf with proper authorization. Chase offers a wide range of business banking products, including checking accounts, savings accounts, credit cards, and merchant services. The Chase Business Complete Banking account has a $15 monthly fee, which can be waived by maintaining a $2,000 minimum balance or meeting other requirements.

How to apply: Visit a Chase branch with your EIN, LLC formation documents, operating agreement, passport, and a second form of ID (such as a driver’s license from your home country or an ITIN letter).

Bank of America

Bank of America also accepts non-US citizens for business bank accounts but requires an in-person branch visit. Bank of America has a large branch network across the United States, making it convenient if you are traveling to the US. The Business Advantage Fundamentals account has a $16 monthly fee, which can be waived by maintaining a $5,000 minimum balance. Bank of America offers comprehensive business banking services, including checking, savings, credit cards, and lending.

How to apply: Visit a Bank of America branch with your EIN, LLC formation documents, operating agreement, passport, and proof of address.

How to Open a US Business Bank Account (Step-by-Step)

Follow these steps to open a US business bank account as a non-citizen:

Step 1: Form Your US LLC

You must have a US business entity before you can open a business bank account. If you have not already formed your LLC, see our guide for non-US citizens for step-by-step instructions. We recommend using Northwest Registered Agent ($39 + state fee) for formation.

Step 2: Get an EIN

Apply for an EIN from the IRS by fax or phone (the online application requires an SSN). See our EIN guide for detailed instructions for non-US citizens. The EIN is free and is required by every bank to open a business account.

Step 3: Prepare Your Documents

Gather the following documents before starting your bank application:

• EIN confirmation letter (CP 575 notice from the IRS)
• Articles of Organization (filed and stamped by the state)
• Operating agreement
• Your valid passport
• Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement from your home country)

Step 4: Choose a Bank

Review the options in the comparison table above and select the bank that best fits your needs. If you cannot visit the United States in person, choose an online option like Mercury or Relay. If you can visit a US branch, you have the additional options of Chase and Bank of America.

Step 5: Complete the Application

For online banks (Mercury, Relay), complete the application on their website. Upload your documents, verify your identity, and submit the application. For traditional banks (Chase, Bank of America), visit a branch with your documents and work with a business banker to open the account.

Step 6: Fund Your Account

Once your account is approved, you will need to fund it with an initial deposit. For online banks, you can typically fund the account via wire transfer from your home country bank. For traditional banks, you can deposit cash or a check at the branch, or arrange a wire transfer. Some banks have no minimum opening deposit; others may require $25 to $100.

Online Banking Options for Non-Residents

In addition to the banks listed above, there are several online financial platforms that serve non-US citizens. These platforms are not traditional banks but offer business banking features that are useful for international entrepreneurs.

Mercury

Mercury is our top recommendation for non-resident LLC owners. It offers free business checking, savings accounts, virtual and physical debit cards, ACH and wire transfers, and a clean online interface. Mercury is designed for startups and online businesses and is well-suited for international entrepreneurs. Deposits are FDIC-insured up to $250,000. No branch visit required.

Relay

Relay offers free business checking with the added benefit of up to 20 separate checking accounts, which is useful for organizing your finances. Relay also offers debit cards, ACH transfers, and integrations with QuickBooks and Xero. Deposits are FDIC-insured. No branch visit required.

Wise Business

Wise (formerly TransferWise) is an international money transfer platform that also offers a multi-currency business account. With a Wise Business account, you can hold and convert money in over 40 currencies, receive payments through local bank details in the US (ACH), UK, EU, and other regions, and send low-cost international transfers. Wise is not a bank and deposits are not FDIC-insured in the same way, but it is an excellent tool for businesses that send and receive payments internationally. Wise charges a one-time setup fee (around $50) and small conversion fees for currency exchanges.

How to apply: Visit the Wise Business website, create an account, verify your identity with a passport, and register your LLC. You can get US bank account details (routing and account number) for receiving ACH payments.

Many non-resident LLC owners use a combination of these platforms — for example, Mercury for their primary US business bank account and Wise for international transfers and currency conversion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a US bank account without visiting the United States?

Yes. Online banking platforms like Mercury and Relay allow non-US citizens to open business bank accounts entirely online without visiting a branch. You will need your LLC’s EIN, formation documents, operating agreement, and a valid passport. Traditional banks like Chase and Bank of America require an in-person branch visit.

Do I need an SSN or ITIN to open a US bank account?

Most banks require an EIN for business accounts. Some banks may also ask for an SSN or ITIN, but many online banks (like Mercury and Relay) accept foreign passports as identification and do not require an SSN or ITIN. Check with your chosen bank for their specific requirements.

What is the best bank for non-US citizens?

Mercury is our top recommendation because it offers free business checking, accepts non-US citizens, allows fully online account opening, and has no monthly fees or minimum balance requirements. Relay is also a strong option with similar features. If you need a traditional bank with a branch network, Chase is the best option for non-citizens who can visit a branch.

How long does it take to open a US bank account?

Online applications with Mercury or Relay typically take 1 to 5 business days for approval. In-person applications at Chase or Bank of America are usually processed the same day, though additional verification for non-citizens may take a few extra days.

Can I receive wire transfers from outside the US?

Yes. All of the banks listed in this guide support incoming wire transfers from foreign banks. This is the most common way for non-residents to fund their US bank accounts. Mercury and Relay also support ACH transfers, and Wise Business is specifically designed for international transfers.

Is my money insured in a US bank account?

Deposits at FDIC-insured banks are protected up to $250,000 per depositor, per bank. Mercury (through its partner banks), Relay (through Thread Bank), Chase, and Bank of America are all FDIC-insured. Wise Business is not a bank and operates differently — funds held in your Wise account may be protected through other means, but not through FDIC insurance. Check each platform’s terms for current details.