Open a US Bank Account
for Your Business
Compare the best business bank accounts for LLCs and Corporations. Many accept international founders - no US residency required.
Important for International Founders
You'll need a US LLC or Corporation with an EIN before opening a bank account. Some banks may require additional verification for non-US residents.Start your company formation →
How to Open a US Bank Account
Form Your Company
Register your LLC or Corporation in a US state
Get Your EIN
Apply for an Employer Identification Number from the IRS
Gather Documents
Articles of Organization, Operating Agreement, EIN letter
Apply Online
Complete the bank application (usually 10-15 minutes)
Compare Business Bank Accounts
All of these banks offer online applications. Choose based on your needs.
Mercury
Foreigner FriendlyThe #1 choice for startups. Designed for internet businesses.
Best for: Startups, Tech companies, E-commerce
Features
- No monthly fees
- No minimum balance
- Free domestic wires
- Virtual cards
Requirements
- • US LLC or Corporation
- • EIN number
- • US address (virtual OK)
- • Valid ID
Relay
Foreigner FriendlyBusiness banking built for growing companies.
Best for: Small businesses, Agencies, Freelancers
Features
- No monthly fees
- No minimum balance
- Up to 20 checking accounts
- 50 virtual/physical cards
Requirements
- • US LLC or Corporation
- • EIN number
- • US address
- • Valid passport
Wise Business
Foreigner FriendlyBest for international transactions. Hold 40+ currencies.
Best for: International businesses, Freelancers with foreign clients
Features
- Multi-currency accounts
- Low FX fees (0.35-1%)
- US, UK, EU account details
- Batch payments
Requirements
- • US LLC or Corporation
- • EIN number
- • Director ID verification
- • Proof of business
Brex
Premium corporate cards with high limits. No personal guarantee.
Best for: Funded startups, High-spend businesses
Features
- No personal guarantee
- High credit limits
- Expense management
- Rewards (points)
Requirements
- • US C-Corp or LLC
- • Funded company ($50K+ raised)
- • US bank account required first
- • Valid ID
Novo
Free business checking with integrated invoicing.
Best for: Small businesses, Sole proprietors, Freelancers
Features
- No monthly fees
- No minimum balance
- Free invoicing
- Integrations (Stripe, Shopify)
Requirements
- • US LLC or Corporation
- • EIN number
- • US address
- • US phone number
Frequently Asked Questions
Can non-US residents open a US bank account?
Yes! Many banks like Mercury, Relay, and Wise accept international founders. You'll need a US business entity (LLC or Corporation) with an EIN. Some banks may require additional verification.
Do I need to visit the US to open an account?
Not necessarily. Mercury, Relay, and Wise Business allow fully remote account opening. Traditional banks like Chase or Bank of America typically require an in-person visit.
What documents do I need?
Typically: Articles of Organization, Operating Agreement, EIN confirmation letter, valid ID (passport), and proof of business address. Some banks may request additional documents.
How long does it take to open an account?
Online banks like Mercury often approve accounts within 1-3 business days. Traditional banks may take 1-2 weeks with an in-person visit.
Can I get a debit card?
Yes, most business accounts come with debit cards. They can usually be shipped to international addresses. Virtual cards are also available for immediate use.
What about credit cards?
Business credit cards typically require a US credit history or personal guarantee. Brex offers cards without personal guarantee for funded startups.
Need a US Company First?
You'll need an LLC or Corporation before opening a bank account. We can help you get started in just a few days.
Start Your Company