Introduction: Why Open a US Business Bank Account?
In today’s globalized marketplace, having a strong financial foundation is essential for international trading businesses. One of the most strategic moves a non-US company can make is to open a US business bank account. This is more than just a banking formality—it’s a gateway to streamlined transactions, increased trust, and greater access to global trade opportunities.
For businesses that regularly deal with American clients, suppliers, or marketplaces, having a US bank accountsimplifies operations. It allows for faster USD payments, minimizes currency conversion fees, and makes your company appear more credible and established in the eyes of US partners. It also enables participation in platforms that require a US-based payment solution, like Stripe, Amazon, or US-based B2B marketplaces.
As international trade expands, more non-US residents are exploring how to access international business banking in the United States. But the process is not always straightforward. Requirements vary by bank, and understanding the options—especially as a foreign founder or director—is key to avoiding delays or rejections.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
- Whether non-US residents can open business accounts in the US
- What major US banks require from international applicants
- The pros and cons of remote vs. in-person account opening
- How to choose the right banking partner
- How fintech solutions like Kanzum can streamline the process for global businesses
Whether you're scaling into the US market or just need a trusted way to handle cross-border transactions, this article gives you a clear path forward.
Can a Non-US Resident Open a Business Bank Account in the US?
Short answer: Yes — but it comes with specific requirements and some important considerations.
Non-US residents can open a business bank account in the US, even without US citizenship or residency. However, doing so involves navigating a set of legal and procedural requirements that differ significantly from personal banking. This process is especially relevant for entrepreneurs and companies looking to expand into the US market, accept USD payments, or work with American clients and suppliers.
Key Differences: Personal vs. Business Accounts
While opening a personal account as a foreigner is often more restricted or subject to more scrutiny, business accountsoffer more flexibility—especially if the company is properly registered in the US. A business account is tied to a legal entity, which makes it easier to manage compliance, taxation, and transaction history for business activities.
Legal Eligibility for Foreign-Owned Businesses
To open a business bank account as a non-US resident, you’ll typically need to meet the following conditions:
- Establish a US-based business entity (such as a Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Corporation) in a state like Delaware, Wyoming, or Florida.
- Obtain an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS — required for tax and identity purposes.
- Provide valid business documentation, such as your Articles of Incorporation or Operating Agreement.
- Identify the company’s authorized signatory and beneficial owners — with government-issued ID, proof of address, and sometimes a US mailing address.
Depending on the bank, you may also need:
- A US-based phone number
- A US mailing address (can sometimes be a registered agent or virtual office)
- To visit the bank branch in person (although some fintechs and banks now allow remote onboarding)
While opening a foreign business in the US is entirely legal and increasingly common, it does require proper structuring and preparation.
In the next section, we’ll break down the documents and steps you’ll need to open an account at major US banks — whether you’re opening one remotely or in person.
Common Requirements by Major US Banks
Opening a US business bank account as a non-resident involves preparing specific documents that prove your business is properly registered, legitimate, and compliant with federal banking regulations. While requirements can vary slightly from one bank to another, most major US banks — such as Bank of America, Chase, Wells Fargo, and Citi — will ask for the following:
Business Formation Documents (e.g., LLC or Corporation)
To open a business account, your company must be legally registered in the United States. That means you'll need:
- Articles of Incorporation (for Corporations) or Articles of Organization (for LLCs)
- Certificate of Formation from the state where the business is registered
- Operating Agreement (for LLCs) or corporate bylaws (for Corporations)
Tip: States like Delaware, Wyoming, and Florida are popular for non-resident business formations due to their streamlined processes and privacy protections.
Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS
The EIN is a must-have for any business banking application. It serves as your company’s tax ID number and is required for all legal, financial, and payroll activities in the U.S.
- Non-residents can apply for an EIN directly through the IRS, even without a Social Security Number (SSN)
- Approval typically takes a few business days, though paper applications may take longer
US Business Address (Physical or Registered Agent)
Banks need a physical mailing address in the United States — this doesn’t have to be a traditional office space. Acceptable options include:
- Your registered agent’s address (used during incorporation)
- A virtual business address or office provider
- Your physical warehouse, branch, or partner location (if applicable)
Note: A P.O. Box is not usually accepted for banking purposes.
Passport or Government-Issued ID of Owner
Banks must verify the identity of the business’s authorized signatory and beneficial owners. Most will require:
- A valid passport
- Secondary ID (driver’s license, national ID, etc.)
- Potential proof of residency (e.g., utility bill or lease agreement — depending on the bank)
US Phone Number (Optional, but Helpful)
While not always mandatory, having a US-based phone number:
- Helps with bank communication and verification steps
- Is often required for online banking platforms and fraud detection systems
- May be needed to register for multi-factor authentication
Meeting these requirements not only streamlines your account opening but also builds credibility with US partners and institutions. In the next section, we’ll look at whether you can open a US business bank account remotely — and what banks or fintech alternatives support that.
Remote vs. In-Person Account Opening
One of the biggest questions for non-US residents looking to open a US business bank account is whether it can be done remotely — without physically visiting the United States. The answer largely depends on the type of financial institution you choose and their compliance requirements.
Remote Onboarding: Fintech Banks and Digital-First Platforms
A growing number of digital banking platforms now offer remote US business banking for non-residents. These providers cater specifically to startups, international businesses, and e-commerce sellers, and they often streamline KYC (Know Your Customer) processes through online verification.
Popular remote options include:
- Mercury: A US-based fintech offering business bank accounts for startups and foreign-owned LLCs. Requires EIN, US entity, and passport.
- Relay: Offers multi-user accounts and seamless integrations for small businesses. Supports non-US owners if all compliance requirements are met.
- Kanzum: Not a full US bank account, but offers USD account details for receiving and sending payments globally.
Pros of remote onboarding:
- No travel required — ideal for global founders
- Faster setup (some approvals within days)
- Integrated features like virtual cards, invoicing, and FX transfers
Cons:
- Limited to fintech platforms (not traditional banks)
- No physical banking services (e.g., cash deposits)
- May lack support for large-scale enterprise needs
In-Person Account Opening: Traditional US Banks
Major US banks like Chase, Bank of America, Citi, and Wells Fargo typically require in-person visits to a US branch to verify identity and business documentation.
Why in-person is still required:
- Strict compliance with US banking laws and anti-money laundering (AML) rules
- Banks want to establish personal relationships with business clients
- Physical signature verification and onboarding protocols
Pros of in-person banking:
- Access to a wider range of services (e.g., loans, credit lines)
- Better support for high-volume or enterprise transactions
- Stronger reputation with US-based clients and vendors
Cons:
- Travel costs and visa requirements for non-residents
- Longer setup times due to manual verification
- Complex documentation processes
What’s Right for You?
If you're a small to midsize international trading business, a remote-first fintech platform may be the quickest way to start receiving USD and managing transactions. But for larger enterprises or companies seeking long-term growth in the US market, it may be worth scheduling a US visit to open a traditional bank account.
Coming up next, we’ll break down how Kanzum can support your international banking needs — with faster, more flexible global payment infrastructure.
How Kanzum Helps International Traders Simplify Global Banking
For international trading businesses, managing cross-border payments and navigating global banking requirements can be a complex and time-consuming challenge. That’s where Kanzum comes in — a fintech platform purpose-built to simplify USD banking for non-residents and streamline global B2B transactions.
What Is Kanzum?
Kanzum is a next-generation cross-border payments and business banking platform designed specifically for trading companies that operate across international markets. Whether you're exporting from Asia, importing into the Middle East, or settling suppliers in Europe, Kanzum provides the infrastructure to move money faster, more securely, and with greater control.
Why Kanzum Stands Out for International Businesses
Here’s how Kanzum helps global traders overcome the traditional hurdles of banking and payments:
1. Simplified USD Banking for Non-Residents
- Open a virtual USD business account without setting foot in the United States
- No need for a personal visit to a US bank branch
- Designed for non-US residents and foreign-owned companies
- Fully compliant with US banking and AML/KYC regulations
2. Fast, Low-Cost Cross-Border B2B Transfers
- Send and receive funds globally — with near-instant settlement times
- Avoid traditional SWIFT delays and hidden intermediary fees
- Enjoy transparent pricing and competitive FX rates
3. Built-In FX and Multi-Currency Support
- Hold, convert, and settle in multiple currencies including USD, AED, EUR, and CNY
- Lock in favorable exchange rates to reduce FX risk
- Ideal for trading businesses with global suppliers and buyers
4. Streamlined Onboarding & Business-Centric Design
- No long forms or branch appointments — get started quickly with digital onboarding
- Tailored for the needs of international traders and supply chain businesses
- 24/7 support and built-in tools for compliance, reporting, and reconciliation
Trusted by Trading Businesses Worldwide
From wholesalers in Dubai to exporters in Southeast Asia, Kanzum is helping global businesses break free from traditional banking limitations — and scale cross-border trade with confidence.
Conclusion: Make Global Business Banking Simpler
Opening a US business bank account as a non-resident is entirely possible — but it does require planning, the right documentation, and an understanding of both legal and banking requirements. From forming a US-based entity and obtaining an EIN to choosing between remote or in-person onboarding, the process can vary depending on the institution and your business model.
For international trading businesses, simplifying your global banking setup isn’t just a convenience — it’s a competitive edge. With the right infrastructure, you can access USD accounts, streamline cross-border payments, manage FX exposure, and boost credibility with US suppliers and customers.
Platforms like Kanzum are redefining how global businesses access international trade finance by making it easier than ever to open US business accounts easily, manage multi-currency flows, and stay fully compliant — all without the headaches of traditional banking.
Plan ahead, choose smart, and empower your business to trade globally without borders.