Digital U.S. Bank Accounts for Non-Residents (No SSN Needed) – 2025 Comparison

The Game Has Changed

If you're a global entrepreneur trying to build a business that operates in the U.S., one of the first roadblocks you’ll hit is banking. Specifically:
How do you open a U.S. business bank account without a Social Security Number (SSN)?

For years, this was a frustrating, confusing, and often expensive process. But in 2025, things look different. Thanks to a wave of fintech innovation, non-U.S. residents can now open U.S. business bank accounts remotely, without needing an SSN or even setting foot in the country.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know from the best platforms to use, to the documents required, to how to avoid common pitfalls. Whether you're a freelancer in Brazil, a SaaS founder in Germany, or an e-commerce seller in India, this is your roadmap to U.S. banking.

Who This Guide Is For

This guide is designed for non-U.S. resident entrepreneurs who want to:

• Earn in USD

• Access Stripe, PayPal, Amazon, and other U.S.-based platforms

• Build trust with U.S. clients and customers

• Protect their personal assets through an LLC structure

• Take advantage of tax and operational benefits of U.S. entities

Meet Daniel: Our Global Founder Persona

Daniel is a 34-year-old digital entrepreneur based in South Africa. He runs a small agency offering design and development services to clients in the U.S. and Europe.

He wants to:

• Start an U.S. LLC

• Open a U.S. bank account

• Get paid via Stripe and PayPal

• Avoid unnecessary tax or compliance issues

• Manage everything remotely

Sound familiar? Then this guide is for you.

Quick Answer Box

Can you open a U.S. business bank account without an SSN?
✅ Yes — if you have a U.S. LLC, an EIN, and the right documents, platforms like Mercury, Wise, Payoneer, and Airwallex allow non-U.S. residents to open accounts remotely.

🔍 SSN / ITIN Requirements: Who Can Use What?

Here’s a breakdown of the most popular platforms and whether they require an SSN or ITIN:

No SSN Required

SSN or ITIN Required

Mercury: The Gold Standard for Most U.S. LLCs

Mercury is the go-to choice for most non-U.S. founders who’ve set up a U.S. LLC. It’s sleek, fast, and built for startups.

Key Features

• No SSN required

• FDIC-insured accounts

• Virtual and physical debit cards

• Treasury account for earning interest

• Sub-accounts for budgeting

• Integrations with QuickBooks, Xero, and more

📝 Editor’s Note

You might see online discussions about account closures or stricter reviews at Mercury. It’s true they’re popular and receive a high volume of applications. But in our experience, when you follow their compliance guidelines and submit accurate documents, approval is smooth. We continue to recommend Mercury as a reliable partner for legitimate businesses.

Wise Business: Best for Multi-Currency and Global Invoicing

Wise (formerly TransferWise) is ideal for founders who work with clients across borders and need to invoice in multiple currencies.

Key Features

• No SSN required

• Local bank details in USD, EUR, GBP, etc.

• Multi-currency wallet

• ACH and SWIFT support

• Pay-per-use pricing

• API and accounting integrations

Relay Financial: For Complex Finances (ITIN Required)

Relay is a powerful platform for businesses that need detailed financial workflows — like agencies, consultancies, or multi-partner startups.

Key Features

• Requires SSN or ITIN

• Multi-account structure

• Bill pay, AP/AR workflows

• Integrations with Gusto, QuickBooks, Xero

• Tiered pricing: Starter ($0), Grow ($30), Scale ($90)

Payoneer: Ideal for Freelancers and Marketplace Sellers

Payoneer is a favorite among freelancers and sellers on platforms like Amazon, Upwork, and Fiverr.

Key Features

• No SSN required

• USD receiving accounts

• ACH and SWIFT transfers

• Marketplace integrations

• Physical and virtual cards

• Usage-based fees

Airwallex: Global Payments and Developer-Friendly APIs

Airwallex is built for scale. If you’re running a SaaS, e-commerce, or global service business, this platform offers serious flexibility.

Key Features

• No SSN required

• Local accounts in multiple currencies

• FX conversion tools

• ACH/SWIFT support

• Developer APIs

• Accounting integrations

What Documents Do You Need?

To open a U.S. business bank account as a non-resident, you’ll typically need:

• U.S. LLC formation documents

• EIN (Employer Identification Number)

• Passport or government-issued ID

• Business description or website

• Sometimes: proof of address (can be international)

Pro Tip: LLC + EIN First, Then Banking

Before applying for a bank account, make sure you’ve:

1. Formed your U.S. LLC (Delaware is popular, but Wyoming and New Mexico are also common)

2. Applied for and received your EIN from the IRS

3. Prepared your documents in English and PDF format

4. Have a clear business model and online presence

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a U.S. bank account without visiting the U.S.?

✅ Yes. Platforms like Mercury, Wise, and Payoneer allow remote applications.

Do I need an SSN?

❌ No — not for most fintech platforms. You’ll need an EIN and valid ID.

What’s the best bank for Stripe integration?

✅ Mercury is widely used by founders who want to connect Stripe to their U.S. LLC.

Can I use these accounts to get paid from Amazon or Upwork?

✅ Yes. Payoneer is especially strong for marketplace payouts.

What if I don’t have an LLC yet?

🛠️ You’ll need to form one first. Many founders use services like Firstbase, Doola, or do it manually via state websites.

What common hurdles might you face?

🛠️ Common stumbling blocks are identity verification failures, unsupported countries, and additional documentation requests. Some accounts restrict functionality until you provide an ITIN or US address. Say no to mismatched data. Submit applications to providers known to accommodate your nationality and use case.

What documents do you need to get approved?

🛠️ Get your passport, a second ID if possible and proof of address. Some require an ITIN, others don’t. You might even be able to sign a W‑8BEN to verify non‑US tax status. Keep scans clean and up-to-date.

Do you need a U.S. address or phone number?

🛠️ Regulations vary. A few will take a foreign address and international phone. Some need a U.S. Mailing address or a supported virtual mailbox. Always provide a valid, verifiable address. See the check provider’s policy prior to applying.

Final Recommendations

Ready to Launch?

Opening a U.S. business bank account as a non-resident is no longer a mystery. With the right structure and tools, you can:

✅ Get paid in USD
✅ Access global platforms
✅ Build trust with U.S. clients
✅ Manage your business remotely

So go ahead form your LLC, gather your documents, and choose the bank that fits your needs. The U.S. market is waiting.

References & Official Links

Here are the official websites and resources for the banking platforms covered in this guide:

• 🔗 Mercury – https://mercury.com

• 🔗 Wise Business – https://wise.com/business

• 🔗 Payoneer – https://www.payoneer.com

• 🔗 Airwallex – https://www.airwallex.com

• 🔗 Relay Financial – https://www.relayfi.com

• 🔗 Brex – https://www.brex.com

• 🔗 Rho – https://www.rho.co

• 🔗 Zenus Bank – https://www.zenus.com