How Non-Residents Can Open a U.S. Bank Account Without Visiting the United States

Opening a U.S. bank account used to require traveling to the United States and visiting a bank branch in person. Today, many financial institutions—including traditional banks and modern fintech companies—allow eligible non-U.S. residents to open accounts remotely.

Whether you are an entrepreneur, Amazon seller, freelancer, investor, or owner of a U.S. LLC, having a U.S. bank account makes it easier to receive payments, pay suppliers, manage business expenses, and establish a financial presence in the United States.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explain:

  • Who can open a U.S. bank account remotely
  • Whether you need an ITIN or EIN
  • Which banks require an in-person visit
  • Which fintech companies allow online applications
  • Required documents
  • The best options for non-U.S. residents
Disclaimer: Banking policies change frequently. Although every effort has been made to keep this guide accurate, individual banks may change their eligibility requirements without prior notice. Always verify the latest requirements on the bank's official website before applying.

Can Non-U.S. Residents Open a U.S. Bank Account?

Yes.

Many U.S. banks and financial technology companies allow non-U.S. residents to open checking or business bank accounts.

However, eligibility depends on several factors, including:

  • Your country of residence
  • Your immigration status
  • Whether you are opening a personal or business account
  • Whether you have a U.S. LLC
  • Whether you have an EIN or ITIN
  • The bank's internal compliance policies

Traditional banks generally have stricter requirements than fintech companies.

Do You Need an ITIN to Open a U.S. Bank Account?

Not always.

Some banks accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security Number (SSN), while others allow business account applications using only an Employer Identification Number (EIN).

Many fintech companies focus primarily on business accounts and may not require an ITIN if the business already has a valid EIN and formation documents.

For personal accounts, traditional banks are more likely to request:

  • ITIN or SSN
  • Valid Passport
  • Proof of Residential Address
  • Additional identity verification

Documents Commonly Required

Although every financial institution has its own policies, most require some combination of the following documents.

Document Personal Account Business Account
Valid Passport ✔ ✔
ITIN Usually Required Sometimes
Employer Identification Number (EIN) No Usually Required
LLC Formation Documents No ✔
Operating Agreement No Sometimes
Proof of Residential Address Usually Required Usually Required
Initial Deposit Varies Varies

Traditional U.S. Banks

Traditional banks generally provide a full range of financial services, including checking accounts, savings accounts, debit cards, credit cards, mortgages, loans, and investment products.

Many traditional banks accept ITIN holders, but non-U.S. residents are often required to visit a branch in person.

1. Bank of America

Official Website:
https://www.bankofamerica.com

Remote Application: Limited

In-Person Application: Yes

Accepts ITIN: Yes

Typical Requirements:

  • Valid Passport
  • ITIN or SSN
  • Proof of Address
  • Initial Deposit

Best For: Personal banking, business banking, international customers, credit cards.

2. Chase Bank

Official Website:
https://www.chase.com

Remote Application: Limited

In-Person Application: Usually Required

Accepts ITIN: Yes

Typical Requirements:

  • Passport
  • ITIN
  • Proof of Address
  • Identity Verification

Best For: Business owners, travelers, premium banking services.

3. Wells Fargo

Official Website:
https://www.wellsfargo.com

Remote Application: Limited

In-Person Application: Usually Required

Accepts ITIN: Yes

Typical Requirements:

  • Passport
  • ITIN or SSN
  • Proof of Address

Best For: Personal banking, business accounts, nationwide branch access.

4. Citibank

Official Website:
https://www.citi.com

Remote Application: Limited

In-Person Application: Often Required

Accepts ITIN: Yes

Typical Requirements:

  • Passport
  • ITIN
  • Proof of Address

Best For: International banking, global transfers, multi-currency services.

5. Capital One

Official Website:
https://www.capitalone.com

Remote Application: Available for some account types

In-Person Application: May be Required

Accepts ITIN: Yes

Typical Requirements:

  • Passport
  • ITIN
  • Address Verification

Best For: Online banking, checking accounts, savings accounts, credit cards.

Continue to Part 2: We'll cover TD Bank, PNC Bank, U.S. Bank, Santander, BMO, Truist, Regions Bank, Huntington Bank, Citizens Bank, Fifth Third Bank, and the best fintech companies—including Mercury, Relay, Wise, Novo, Brex, and Airwallex—for non-U.S. residents.