How to Open a US Bank Account from India — Without Travelling
A US bank account is what makes your LLC real. It lets you receive USD, connect Stripe, and pay US vendors. Here is how Indian founders open one remotely, without a single flight.
Why a US Bank Account Matters
Your US LLC is registered. Your EIN is filed. But without a US bank account, the setup is incomplete. A US bank account is what allows you to actually receive money — from Stripe, PayPal, your US clients, or Amazon. It is the last piece that makes your US business operational.
The good news is that Indian founders can open a US business bank account without visiting the US. The less obvious news is that not all US banks offer this. Here is exactly how it works.
Digital Banking vs Traditional Banking
Digital Business Banks — Remote, Fast, Recommended
Digital-first US banks like Mercury and Relay are specifically designed for founders and small businesses. They accept non-US resident applicants, the application is done entirely online, and approval typically takes 7 to 14 days. You get a full US business account with a routing number, account number, USD debit card, and the ability to send ACH and wire transfers.
Mercury is our most recommended option for Indian founders. It has a clean interface, integrates with Stripe and PayPal instantly, and has no monthly fees.
Full US routing and account number. USD debit card. ACH and wire transfer. Stripe and PayPal connection. No monthly fees. Remote application from India. Approval in 1 to 2 weeks.
Traditional Banks — For Later, With ITIN
Banks like Chase, Bank of America, or Wells Fargo offer traditional US business bank accounts. These come with a larger branch network and additional services. However, they require an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), a physical US address, and an in-person branch visit. This means you need to travel to the US to open the account.
We provide full guidance and document preparation if you want to pursue a traditional bank account, but the branch visit must be managed by you. Most Indian founders start with a digital bank account and move to a traditional one only if their business requires it.
What You Need to Open a Digital US Bank Account
To apply for Mercury or Relay as an Indian founder, you need your US LLC formation documents, your EIN confirmation letter from the IRS, your passport, and a valid Indian residential address. The bank may also ask for a brief description of your business. That is it.
How Long Does Approval Take
Digital bank account approval typically takes 7 to 14 business days after application. Some accounts are approved faster. During this time, the bank does its due diligence on your business. We submit your application on your behalf and follow up if there are any questions.
Once the Account Is Live
The moment your account is approved, you can connect it to Stripe for payment settlements, connect it to PayPal as your USD payout destination, share your routing and account number with US clients for direct bank transfers, and start receiving USD from Amazon FBA if applicable.
Transferring funds from your US Mercury account to your Indian bank account is done via international wire transfer. This is subject to FEMA regulations and applicable taxes in India. Consult your CA for the India-side compliance of transferring funds.
