How to Open a U.S. Bank Account as a Non-Resident

Can a non-resident open a U.S. bank account?

Yes. Many guides on this topic assume you can walk into a U.S. branch. This one is written for people who live outside the United States and want to set everything up remotely.

With a U.S. bank account you can:

• Hold USD
• Send and receive ACH and wire transfers
• Invoice U.S. clients and receive ACH payments
• Connect payment processors such as Stripe and PayPal
• Manage your money through FDIC-insured U.S. banks

The key is the structure behind the application. A non-resident opening a business account applies through a U.S. LLC with its own EIN. A personal account needs an ITIN.

U.S. business vs. personal bank account: which do you need?

Our setup covers both. The business account receives client payments; you then move profits to your personal account as an owner distribution.

Which U.S. banks open accounts for non-residents remotely?

We pre-qualify you and guide you through remote business bank account opening with fintech and traditional U.S. institutions:

Most clients are well served by the remote options and never need a U.S. trip. Traditional banks remain available if you want them and are willing to visit a branch.

What documents do you need to open a U.S. bank account as a non-resident?

Typical documentation requirements include:

• LLC formation documents (Articles of Organization, Operating Agreement)
• IRS EIN confirmation letter (CP575 / 147C)
• Valid passport and proof of address
• Business description and website
• ITIN (required for personal bank accounts)
• A complete application package

If you do not have a website yet, our integration service includes a basic business website (with 3 months of hosting) and a business email, so your application looks complete.

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

Yes. The entire process can be completed remotely with Mercury, Relay and other fintech banks. Only traditional banks such as Wells Fargo and Chase require an in-person visit.

In our setup, account opening happens 1-on-1 on a Zoom call with Osher or a trained representative. We prepare the application package with you beforehand, so the session is about submitting a clean, consistent application rather than filling forms for the first time.

Why do non-resident bank applications get declined, and how do you avoid it?

Opening a U.S. business bank account remotely is often the most challenging part of the whole setup. Banks look for consistency and legitimacy, and applications without a clear residency and tax profile run into trouble.

• Weak address evidence. In 2026, simple virtual mailboxes are often flagged. We guide clients on securing an address that ensures card delivery and approval.
• No tax substance. Banks want to see where you are a tax resident. A Paraguayan Cédula and local proof of address help satisfy KYC/AML requirements.
• Gaps in structure or documents. Banks review the whole application package, and improper structure or documentation is a common reason for denials.

We pre-qualify clients and prepare complete application packages. If a denial still occurs, we have backup options and guide you through appeals or alternative banks.

How does the remote U.S. bank account setup work, step by step?

1. Free consultation. We review your business, your residency and what you need the accounts for.
2. Form the U.S. LLC. Wyoming or Delaware, with Operating Agreement and registered agent. See U.S. LLC for non-residents.
3. Get the EIN. Required for the business account and for payment processors.
4. Apply for the ITIN. Required for the personal account and for credit cards.
5. Prepare the application package. Documents, address, business description and website.
6. Open the accounts on Zoom. Business and personal accounts, 1-on-1 with Osher or a trained representative.
7. Connect payments and cards. Payment processor setup guidance (Stripe, PayPal) and access to business and personal debit and credit cards.

How does Paraguay tax residency help with U.S. banking?

Banks want to know where you live and pay tax. Paraguay residency gives you a Cédula (ID card), a local proof of address and an RUC (tax ID). Monthly filings with the Paraguayan tax authority (DNIT) create a documented paper trail of your tax residence.

On the tax side, Paraguay follows a territorial system where only Paraguay-sourced income is taxed. When structured correctly, Paraguay residency alongside a U.S. LLC may support tax efficiency, depending on individual circumstances.

• One trip to Asunción of 5–7 business days on the Gold and VIP plans
• Residency packages: Silver $2,200, Gold $2,850, VIP $4,500
• The VIP plan includes the optional U.S. Business & Personal Integration Service

See all plans on Paraguay residency packages and pricing. If you also want local accounts in Paraguay, read our Paraguay banking guide for new residents.

What comes next: U.S. debit cards, credit cards and credit history

With your U.S. LLC, ITIN and U.S. bank account established, you can start building a U.S. credit profile and apply for U.S. credit cards. Our integration service includes access to business and personal debit and credit cards and ongoing help building your U.S. credit history and score.

Read which cards make sense and in what order in our guide to U.S. credit cards for non-residents.

Frequently asked questions