Opening a US bank account for your LLC as a non-resident

Which banks work for a non-resident-owned LLC

Traditional US banks usually expect you to visit a branch. US fintech banks open business accounts fully online and are built for founders who live abroad. Three names cover almost every situation:

• Mercury: our first choice for most countries of residence, with a business checking account in dollars.
• Relay: a strong alternative that serves many countries of residence, used when it fits your country better.
• Wise: a useful complement for holding and converting several currencies alongside the main US account.

Each bank publishes its own country eligibility list and updates it over time: see Mercury’s list and Relay’s list. We keep our recommendations aligned with them.

Your bank by country of residence

What matters is the country where you live today. A founder living abroad applies with the bank that serves their country of residence, whatever their passport. Here are some of the countries our clients live in; every other country is in our bank finder.

Documents to prepare

• The EIN confirmation letter issued by the IRS. When requested by fax, it usually arrives in about 4 business days (IRS); our EIN guide explains how.
• The articles of organization filed with Wyoming.
• The operating agreement, signed by the members.
• Your passport, valid and readable.
• Proof of your residential address, such as a recent utility bill or bank statement.
• A description of your activity: what you sell, to whom, and your website if you have one.

The address rule

The bank needs the real address where you live or work. A home or office address abroad is accepted. The registered agent’s address, a PO box or a virtual mailbox is not used for this purpose (Mercury’s requirement). The registered agent receives the company’s legal mail; your bank profile uses your own address. If you move to another country later, update your address with the bank so your profile stays accurate.

Tips for a smooth application

• Use exactly the same company name, EIN and address on every document.
• Describe your activity in plain words and link to a website or profile that shows it.
• Explain where your money will come from and go to: customers, suppliers, payment platforms.
• Reply quickly if the bank asks for an extra document; it usually speeds up the review.

Once the account is open, you can connect it to Stripe and your marketplaces. Our Stripe guide covers that step.

How LLCroad helps

Help opening the bank account that serves your country of residence is part of our $489 formation package, along with the state filing, the registered agent, the EIN and the first Form 5472. We prepare the documents the bank expects and guide you through the application. See everything that is included on our pricing page.

Ready to open your LLC and its US account? Start your order today.