Starting a business in the US as a non-resident is a big move, but one of the first hurdles you’ll hit is opening a US business bank account. And let’s be honest: the process isn’t always clear. Between regulatory hoops, paperwork you didn’t expect, and banks that aren’t set up to deal with international founders, it can feel like the system just isn’t built for you. But here’s the good news: it is possible. You just need to know the right steps and a few workarounds. We have written this guide for non-resident entrepreneurs and explain how to open a US business bank account as a foreigner.
Step by Step to Open a US Business Bank Account
This section walks you through the essential steps—starting with choosing the right bank—and outlines the key documents you’ll need to get started.
1. Choose a US Bank
For foreigners or non-residents trying to open a bank account in the US, here’s the hard truth: not all banks will work with you. Some flat-out refuse unless you have a Social Security number, a US address, or residency. That’s why picking the right bank matters. Also, you’ll want one that’s used to dealing with international customers and won’t make the process harder than it needs to be.
There are a few financial services, such as fintechs, that will let you open an account, even if you don’t live in the US or have any residency documents. Since you’re running a business that’s registered in the US, they let you open business accounts online. These fintechs come with several advantages for non-residents. You’ll need an EIN and a US address in your name. These are digital-first platforms that offer no-fee banking and solid tools for managing business finances remotely.
2. Get Your Documents Ready
To successfully open your US bank account, you will need to present some documents virtually to pass bank compliance. Make sure you have your LLC approval documents, business address, means of identification and your Employer Identification Number (EIN) ready.
LLC Approval Documents
One of the first documents the bank will ask for is your LLC approval document. This is the official paperwork from the state where you formed your Limited Liability Company (LLC). It proves that your business legally exists.
The name of this document isn’t the same in every state. Depending on where you registered your LLC, it might be called the Articles of Organization, Certificate of Organization, or Certificate of Formation. But no matter the name, it’s essentially the same thing: proof that your LLC is registered and active.
You get this document when you file your LLC formation paperwork with the Secretary of State (or similar government office) in the state you choose. Once your filing is accepted, the state issues this approval document. Without it, your LLC doesn’t officially exist, and banks won’t move forward with the account opening.
Means of Identification
When it comes to proving who you are, your passport is usually the way to go. It’s the most widely accepted form of ID, especially if you’re coming from another country. It tells people where you’re from and confirms your identity.
Your means of identification should be current and in good condition. Nearly every bank will ask for it, so have it ready. If you happen to have a US ID, like a driver’s license or a state-issued ID, that can help too. It’s not required, but it can make the process easier, especially at larger banks. Some banks might ask for more than one form of ID, so if you’ve got both a passport and a US ID, bring both.
Don’t worry if you don’t have a US ID. Most non-residents don’t. Your passport alone is usually enough to start with, especially if you also have other supporting documents like a visa, an I-94 form, or a utility bill with your name and US address on it.
Proof of US Business Address
Another thing you’ll need to provide is proof of a US business address. This can feel tricky if you don’t live in the US, but don’t worry, it’s manageable.
First, let’s talk about what kind of address is needed. You’ll be asked to provide a registered business address. This is usually the address of your registered agent, that is, the person or company officially listed to receive legal documents for your LLC. You can absolutely use this address when the bank asks for your “registered address.” Most non-residents go this route.
Next, there’s the trading address. This is where your business operates from. It can be in the US or outside the US, and it doesn’t need to be anything fancy. It could be your home, a coworking space, a small office, or even a shared shop or studio. The point is: where do you actually do your work? That’s what you enter.
If you don’t have a US address for receiving mail or want more privacy, you can also buy a virtual US business address. These services will receive your mail and forward it to you, which also works for most banks as proof of address.
Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Another document you will have to present is your EIN, which is also called your Federal Tax ID Number. It’s a must-have, not optional.
Some banks will let you simply type in the number during the application process. But many will ask for actual proof that the EIN is real and assigned to your LLC. That’s where things can get a little tricky if you’re not sure what counts as valid proof.
Here’s what works:
– SS-4 fax confirmation – This is the application you originally submitted to the IRS to get your EIN. If you applied by fax, the IRS might have written your EIN directly on the form and sent it back to you. That counts as proof.
– EIN Confirmation Letter (CP 575) – This is the official letter the IRS mails out after approving your EIN application. If you applied online or by fax and got approved, this is the gold standard.
– EIN Verification Letter (147C) – If you lost the CP 575 or never got one, you can request this by calling the IRS. They’ll mail or fax it to you, and banks accept it as proof, too.
US Phone Number
Having a US phone number is important when opening a bank account as a foreign non-resident. Most banks expect one, and without it, your application could hit a roadblock. This is because they want to see signs that you’re reachable and somewhat “present” in the US, even if you don’t live there.
The good news is, you don’t need to move to the US to get a US number. Several services cater specifically to non-residents and offer US numbers for customers online. These numbers work for calls, texts, and even two-factor authentication in many cases.
3. Open the Account
Once you’ve got all your documents together, it’s time to open your business bank account. The process depends on the type of bank you choose, whether online or traditional, and each comes with its own steps and requirements.
If you’re going with an online or fintech bank like Mercury, Relay, or Wise, everything is done digitally. You’ll start by going to the bank’s website and filling out the application form. You’ll need to upload some key documents, including your company formation papers, your EIN letter from the IRS, your government-issued ID, and a document that proves you have a US address, like a utility bill, lease, or bank statement.
After that, you’ll go through identity verification. Some banks accept just a passport or a national ID, especially if you’re applying from outside the US. Once everything is submitted, approval can happen pretty quickly. It can be anywhere from a few hours to a few days, depending on the bank and how clean your paperwork is.
Form a US Company and Get Bank Account Opening Assistance with Globalfy
At Globalfy, we know how important it is not just to form your company in the US, but actually to run it like a real business. We’ve worked with thousands of entrepreneurs from around the world, and we know how frustrating it can be to get a bank account set up when you’re not physically in the States. So we make it easier.
When you form your LLC or Corporation with us, we don’t just stop at registration. We take you through the next steps: applying for your EIN, setting up your virtual address, and getting your post-formation documents in order.
Our platform is built to simplify everything. You can keep track of deadlines, compliance filings, and state renewals without having to chase down paperwork or figure out confusing regulations. And when it comes to banking, we offer real support. We’ll help you understand your options and assist with opening a business bank account for a non-resident.
We’ve bundled everything—company registration, bank account help and more—into a single streamlined experience to provide real support to help you build and grow your business in the US Don’t waste time, open a US business today and let us guide you on how to open a US bank account. Contact our team today.
Conclusion
Opening a US business bank account as a foreigner isn’t impossible, but it does take some planning, patience, and paperwork. If you’ve made it this far, you’re already ahead of most. The key is to get your legal structure in place (like forming your LLC or corporation), make sure your tax documents and ID are lined up, and choose a bank that actually works with non-residents. Need help? Globalfy specializes in helping non-US residents open US companies and assists in opening US bank accounts. Get in touch with our team today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which bank is best for a business account in the USA?
Many top banks depend on your business needs: Mercury Business Checking offers no fees, competitive rate and rewards; Chase is ideal for nationwide branch access and merchant services – but you will need to travel to the U.S. to apply for the bank account; Lili and Relay stand out for great customer service, and also supports online application..
Can I open a U.S. bank account as a foreigner?
Yes. Foreigners can open U.S. business accounts but must form a U.S. entity (e.g., LLC), obtain an EIN, and provide proper documentation. Some online banks may allow fully remote account opening.
How to get a U.S. business bank account?
Form your U.S. company and get an EIN. Gather required documents: formation papers, EIN letter, two IDs, personal and U.S. business proof of address. Most banks demand a U.S. physical address and an in‑person visit.