Launching a US business as a non-resident founder? You’ve likely discovered the most frustrating part isn’t forming the company, it’s getting a US business bank account.
While opening an account is not always that straightforward, it’s still very doable, even remotely. You don’t need a US Social Security Number (SSN) or a US address. Thanks to remote-friendly fintech platforms like Relay or Mercury, international founders can set up US banking without an SSN or a flight. 100% remotely.
In this guide, we’ll compare the top 3 US banking options for non-resident entrepreneurs, plus exactly what you need to get started.
Table of contents
Challenges for non-residents when trying to open a US bank account
Despite setting up a legal business entity in the US, many international founders hit a wall when trying to open a bank account. Here are the most common challenges:
- No SSN or US address: Most legacy banks require these, locking out global entrepreneurs.
- In-person verification: Traditional banks typically require you to visit a branch, which is not feasible for most non-US business owners.
- Regulatory compliance confusion: Founders are unsure what documents are actually needed for KYC and AML requirements.
- Seemingly arbitrary decisions: Banks rejecting applications outright or freezing accounts later.
- Restricted countries: Banks may not open accounts for business owner(s) from or based in certain countries, due to regulations.
Reddit is full of horror stories about long delays, rejected applications, and surprise freezes.
The most pressing questions typically are:
“Which banks can I use to open a US business account as a foreigner?”
“Can I open a US bank account online without an SSN or address?”
“What’s better: Mercury or Relay?”
We’ll cover those, and much more, in this guide.
What global founders need in a bank
Before we compare non-resident friendly banks, here’s what most international entrepreneurs want from a US bank:
- Fully remote onboarding
- No SSN or ITIN required
- Support for LLCs and EINs
- Stripe, PayPal, Shopify compatibility
- Low fees and easy transfers
- Global-friendly features
- Multi-currency
- Global access
- Business debit card
Let’s look at the top 3 banks that check almost all those boxes – no single bank offers everything. We then also discuss some other options that often come up in online conversations.
The top 3 banks for non-resident founders
Mercury is most often recommended in online forums, closely followed by Relay. Wise Business is another option, although technically not a US bank.
These three fintech banking platforms are most popular with international entrepreneurs. They’re widely trusted in the startup world and allow you to open your account from anywhere in the world.
We’ll review each in more detail:
Mercury
Popular with tech startups, SaaS founders, Stripe-based businesses due to its clean UI and startup focus.
Why founders love it:
- No SSN or US address required
- Accepts passport + EIN + LLC documents
- Fully remote onboarding in 1–5 days
- Free wire transfers and no monthly fees
- Works with Stripe, PayPal, Shopify, Amazon
Some also report issues with sudden account freezes or delayed wires – a nightmare for any business owner.
Relay
Relay is a great choice for international business owners, especially single-member LLCs. While it offers similar features to Mercury, it also has advanced business features like sub-accounts, team access, and accounting integrations.
Why founders love it:
- Fully remote onboarding
- Works without an SSN
- Multiple sub-accounts for better cash management
- Built-in integration with QuickBooks and Xero
- Great support and clean mobile app
- Stripe, Shopify, and PayPal compatible
We partner with Relay and guide you through every step of the bank account opening process as part of our incorporation package.
“Relay wins every time for solo owners. The sub-accounts are a game changer.” – Reddit user Reddit thread.
Reddit users also agree that Relay does not require SSN if you’re incorporated in the US and have proper EIN documentation.
Wise Business
Wise is not a US-chartered bank, but it gives you US bank details for receiving payments. This can make it a powerful workaround. Its multi-currency support allows for receiving and spending USD, plus holding and sending over 50 currencies. This can make it a good option for freelancers and digital nomads.
Why founders love it:
- Get US routing and account number for Stripe, PayPal, Amazon
- Multi-currency support (USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, and more)
- Fast international transfers
- Simple global transfers and currency conversion
- Accepted by Stripe, Amazon, Shopify, Upwork
Comparison table: top 3 banks for non-residents
| Feature | Mercury | Relay | Wise Business |
| Remote onboarding |  Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Possible without SSN | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Stripe/PayPal support | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Monthly fees | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| USD account details | Full | Full |  Virtual only |
| Multi-currency support |  No | No | Yes |
| Global Access | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Bookkeeping tools | Basic | Built-in | Limited |
| Business debit card | Yes | Yes | No |
Documents to open a US bank account remotely
To open a US business account as a non-resident, here’s what you’ll need:
The best part? We’ll guide you through all of this and connect you directly to these banks during onboarding.
Banking alternatives and workarounds
While Mercury, Relay, and Wise are the top picks, there are a few other options worth mentioning:
Payoneer
- Works for: Marketplace sellers (Amazon, Fiverr, Upwork)
- Offers US receiving account and multi-currency accounts
- Not a full-featured bank, but works for payouts
Airwallex
But keep in mind that these have a more limited purpose. They are not ideal for full-scale US banking needs. They don’t replace Mercury or Relay but can complement them.
- Work for: Multi-currency businesses
- Offers global business accounts, including USD
- Popular in APAC region
What about Revolut?
You may also hear Revolut mentioned frequently, especially among EU-based freelancers. While it allows you to invoice in USD and other currencies, it does not provide a true US bank account and isn’t ideal for connecting to Stripe, PayPal, or Shopify. It also lacks full support for receiving ACH or wire transfers from US clients and platforms.
FAQs about bank account opening for non-residents
Can I open a US bank account without visiting the US?
Yes, banks like Mercury, Relay, and Wise allow remote onboarding.
Do I need an SSN or ITIN?
No, not for Mercury, Wise, or Relay.
Is it legal for non-residents to open a US business bank account?
Yes, as long as you have a US-registered entity (e.g., LLC) and EIN.
Will these banks work with Stripe and PayPal?
Yes, Mercury, Relay, and Wise all provide account details that Stripe and PayPal accept.
We’ll help you open your business and your bank account
We don’t just help you form your US company – we make sure you’re set up to run it. Our banking partners like Relay, Mercury, and Wise were chosen specifically because they support international founders like you.
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