US business accounts for non‑residents: how to choose
Key takeaways
- Start with one question: does the provider accept companies whose owners live abroad?
- Fintech accounts open online; traditional banks often ask for a visit to a branch.
- Compare fees, cards, currencies and integrations with the tools you already use.
Two kinds of accounts
Traditional banks offer the full range of products, but many require the owner in person. Fintech business accounts open 100% online and are usually the first choice for founders abroad, with partner banks holding the money.
What to compare
| Criteria | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Accepts non‑resident owners | The first filter — many providers don’t |
| Documents required | EIN letter, formation documents, passport, proof of address |
| Monthly and transfer fees | International wires can cost more than the plan |
| Cards | Physical and virtual debit cards for the team |
| Currencies | Receiving and holding USD, EUR or BRL |
| Integrations | Stripe, Amazon, Shopify and your accounting software |
Documents you will need
- Articles of Organization or Incorporation
- EIN confirmation letter from the IRS
- Operating Agreement or bylaws
- Passport and proof of address of each owner
Tips to get approved faster
- Describe your business clearly, with a website that matches what you sell.
- Keep the same company name and address on every document.
- Apply to more than one provider: approval criteria vary.
Bottom line: choose the account by what your company does every day — receiving from clients, paying suppliers or selling on marketplaces.
