Opening a U.S. bank account is a crucial step when forming a Limited Liability Company (LLC), especially for entrepreneurs living outside the United States. Whether you’re running an e-commerce store, freelancing, or offering digital services, having access to a U.S.-based business bank account can help you:
- Get paid in USD
- Work with U.S. clients easily
- Access Stripe, PayPal, and other processors
- Improve your business credibility
But here’s the question: Can you open a U.S. bank account for your LLC if you’re not physically in the U.S.?
Yes — and in this article, you’ll learn exactly how to do it in 2025.
✅ Can a Non-Resident Open a U.S. Bank Account for Their LLC?
Yes, non-residents and foreigners can open a U.S. bank account for their LLC.
There are two main options:
- Online (Remotely) via Fintech Banks
- In-person Visit to the U.S. (Traditional Banks)
You don’t need to be a U.S. citizen or even live in the U.S., but you do need a properly registered U.S. LLC and the right documentation.
🧾 What Documents Do You Need?
Before applying, make sure your LLC is properly formed. Then, gather the following documents:
- LLC Articles of Organization (formation certificate)
- EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS
- Operating Agreement
- U.S. Business Address (can be a virtual address)
- Photo ID or Passport of the LLC owner
- Proof of address (some banks require this)
🛑 Note: Many U.S. banks don’t accept foreign IDs unless you apply in person, so fintech options are often easier.
🏦 Best Online Banks for Non-Residents (No Visit Required)
- Mercury – mercury.com
- 100% online, designed for startups
- No monthly fees
- Great for Stripe, Amazon, and SaaS
- Accepts international founders
- Wise (Formerly TransferWise) – wise.com
- Offers multi-currency business accounts
- Receive USD bank details
- Ideal for international invoicing
- Payoneer – payoneer.com
- Virtual U.S. bank account
- Receive payments from marketplaces like Upwork, Amazon, etc.
- Relay – relayfi.com
- Works with U.S. LLCs
- Offers sub-accounts, user permissions
- Partnered with accounting tools
📝 These banks often don’t require a Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN.
💡 What If You Want to Open a U.S. Bank Account In Person?
You can visit the U.S. and open a traditional business account at banks like:
- Bank of America
- Chase
- Wells Fargo
- Citibank
In-person visits usually allow more banking features, including credit cards, checkbooks, and more.
📌 However, most banks will require you to provide:
- Passport
- LLC formation documents
- EIN letter
- U.S. address (often physical, not virtual)
📬 Do I Need a U.S. Address?
Yes. Almost all banks (even online ones) will ask for a U.S. business address.
You can get a virtual business address using services like:
Avoid using PO Boxes. Banks prefer real street addresses.
🔐 Do I Need an EIN?
Yes. The EIN (Employer Identification Number) is required to open a business bank account in the U.S., even if you’re a non-resident.
You can apply for an EIN online via the IRS, or hire services like:
🧭 Step-by-Step: How to Open a U.S. Bank Account from Abroad
- Form your U.S. LLC
- Get your EIN from the IRS
- Set up a U.S. virtual address
- Apply to Mercury or Wise for a business account
- Upload all required documents
- Wait 1–7 days for approval
🎉 Done! You now have a U.S. business bank account without setting foot in the country.
🏁 Conclusion
Yes, you can open a U.S. bank account for your LLC from abroad, and in many cases, it’s easier than ever in 2025.
Thanks to fintech innovation and flexible LLC laws, international founders now have multiple options.
Just remember:
- Use a virtual U.S. address
- Form your LLC legally
- Apply through online-friendly banks like Mercury
- Don’t skip getting your EIN
📌 Need Help Choosing the Best Bank or State for Your LLC?
Let me know your business type and goals, and I’ll walk you through everything—even create a custom checklist for your situation.