Opening a US business account is a major drop-off point for non-residents. The good news: several remote-friendly fintechs accept foreign founders — no SSN needed. The catch: eligibility depends on your country.
The realistic options
| Wise Business | Easiest for most non-residents; available in 170+ countries; accepts a registered-agent address. Great for receiving and multi-currency. |
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| Mercury | Startup-friendly and Stripe-ready, but has tightened rules and is country-gated; effectively wants a US address. Best as a second account. |
| Revolut Business | Works in eligible countries but asks you to prove US presence, so eligibility is narrower. |
The common setup
Most non-residents settle on Wise for receiving and operating, then add Mercury as a second account once there's activity to show.
Check the provider's current country eligibility — lists change and a mismatch causes rejection. Open Wise Business Easiest Open Mercury Startup-friendly
You'll need your EIN first
Banks require the EIN — see EIN without an SSN.
Frequently asked questions
Can a non-resident open a US bank account remotely?
Yes — fintechs like Wise and Mercury allow remote opening for non-residents, subject to country eligibility.
Which is easiest for non-residents?
Wise is usually the easiest and broadest; Mercury is popular for startups but more restrictive.
Do I need an SSN to open US business banking?
No — these providers open accounts with your EIN, not an SSN.