Forming the LLC is usually the easy part; opening the account is where many get stuck. Here are the options that accept LLCs with foreign owners, who doesn't ask for an SSN and what requirements each one looks at — so you apply to the one that fits your case.
General market practices as of 2026. Requirements change often — always confirm on each provider's site before applying.
| Provider | Asks for SSN/ITIN? | Address | What it is | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mercury | No | Requires a U.S. address (no longer accepts the registered agent's) | Banking platform (fintech) | The favorite of non-residents with a digital business; integrates with Stripe |
| Wise Business | No | Usually accepts the agent's address | Electronic money institution (not a bank) | The easiest to get approved; multi-currency to get paid in several currencies |
| Lili | No | 100% remote opening; asks for a passport and a second foreign document | Banking platform (fintech) | Freelancers and sole owners; its basic plan has no monthly fee |
| Relay | Yes | Requires a physical U.S. address | Banking platform (fintech) | Those who already have an ITIN/SSN and real U.S. operations |
| Payoneer | Varies | Flexible | Receiving account | Receiving payments from marketplaces and international clients |
| Brex | Depends on profile | U.S. | Corporate fintech | Startups with capital or high revenue (asks for ~$50k+ in cash or VC) |
Mercury is usually the first attempt (no SSN, integrates with Stripe). If you're rejected or want to get paid in several currencies, Wise Business is the most accessible plan B. Many open both: Mercury to operate and Wise for multi-currency.
Lili is designed precisely for that profile: remote opening, no SSN and no monthly fee on its basic plan. It's often a good first account when volume is still small and you don't need the features of a bigger platform.
Add Payoneer or Wise as the platform's receiving account, in addition to your operating account. Each layer serves a different function.
That's where Brex starts to make sense for its limits and corporate card. For the rest of bootstrapped founders, it usually doesn't qualify.
Does your LLC already have an EIN and everything ready to apply?
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And after you calculate?
LLC + EIN, annual compliance (Form 5472, state report), Florida apostilles and online notarization — with a CPA who works with you in English or Spanish.
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