Your realistic options
| Provider | Type | Remote opening | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mercury | Fintech (FDIC via partners) | Yes | Startups, SaaS, e-commerce |
| Relay | Fintech (FDIC via partners) | Yes | Agencies, multi-account operations |
| Wise Business | Fintech, multi-currency | Yes | International invoicing |
| Chase / BofA | Traditional bank | No — branch visit | Cash operations, credit history |
For most founders abroad, a fintech account is the practical route: application online, approval in days, full ACH and wire capability, and debit cards shipped internationally.
What you will need
- Stamped articles of organization from your state of formation.
- EIN confirmation letter (CP 575) — see our EIN guide.
- A signed operating agreement showing ownership.
- Your passport and foreign residential address.
- A credible business presence — website, invoices, or contracts.
Avoiding rejection
Onboarding teams reject applications that look improvised. Describe your business specifically ("wholesale of branded fitness equipment to EU retailers," not "e-commerce"), ensure your application matches state and IRS records exactly, and disclose ownership honestly. Note that residents of sanctioned jurisdictions cannot be onboarded by U.S. institutions regardless of entity structure.
Westmark clients receive a bank-ready company file and a guided introduction to the platform that fits their profile — before the first application is ever submitted. See LLC formation →
Frequently asked questions
Can a non-resident open a U.S. business bank account remotely?
Yes. Fintech platforms such as Mercury, Relay, and Wise Business onboard non-resident-owned U.S. LLCs entirely online. Traditional branch banks (Chase, Bank of America) generally require an in-person visit.
What documents do I need?
Typically: stamped articles of organization, your EIN confirmation letter (CP 575), operating agreement, passport, and evidence of business activity such as a website or invoices.
Why do applications get rejected?
Common causes: sanctioned or restricted country of residence, vague business descriptions, missing EIN documentation, or mismatches between the application and state records. A clean, complete company file resolves most of these.
Do I need a U.S. address for banking?
Fintechs accept your registered agent or a virtual mailing address for the business address, with your real foreign residential address for the owner. Never misrepresent your personal address.
Can I use Stripe or PayPal with my U.S. LLC?
Yes — a U.S. LLC with an EIN and U.S. bank account can register for Stripe and PayPal U.S., which is one of the main reasons non-resident founders form U.S. entities.