The problem
Stripe is the default way for online businesses to take card payments, subscriptions and invoices. But Stripe only opens accounts for businesses registered in a limited list of countries. If your company is in the Caribbean, most of Africa, the Middle East, South Asia or Latin America, the sign-up form simply does not offer your country.
The same wall shows up elsewhere: Shopify Payments, many app store and marketplace payouts, and some PayPal features are only available to businesses in certain countries. Founders end up with expensive workarounds, payment links from resellers, or no online payments at all.
Why a US LLC solves it
Stripe looks at where the business is registered, not where the owner lives. A US LLC is a US business. With the company's EIN and a US business bank account, you apply for a US Stripe account like any American company, and you can then accept cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay from customers in almost every country.
The owner does not need to be American or live in the United States. Stripe verifies who you are with your passport and asks about the business, its website and what it sells.
What you need before applying
- A US LLC, approved by the state.
- The EIN of the LLC, the IRS tax number. You do not need an SSN or ITIN to get one.
- A US business bank account in the name of the LLC, for payouts. Fintech banks such as Mercury open accounts for non-resident founders remotely.
- A website or online presence that shows what you sell, with prices, terms and contact details.
- Your passport, for the identity check of the owner.
With startyour.llc the first two are part of the package, the operating agreement that banks ask for is included, and your order page points you to Mercury for the bank account.
What Stripe checks
Stripe reviews every account. It looks at the business model, the website, the products and the person behind it, and it has a list of businesses it does not support, such as certain financial services, adult content and gambling. A clear website and an honest description of what you sell make approval much more likely. No formation service can guarantee a Stripe account, and you should be wary of anyone who promises one.
The same LLC opens other doors
- PayPal Business and Wise Business accounts in the name of a US company.
- Shopify Payments for a store run by a US company with a US bank account.
- Amazon US seller accounts and US app store payouts.
- Invoicing American clients from a US company, paid in dollars to a US account.
Do not forget the yearly filings
A US LLC owned by a foreign person has to file Form 5472 with the IRS every year, even when it makes no profit, and payment providers may send US tax forms about your sales. Keep the books from day one. CORA, the bookkeeping tool we work with, was built for exactly this.
Frequently asked
Can I open a Stripe account if I am not American?
Yes, through a US company. Stripe opens accounts for US businesses whose owners live abroad, after checking the owner's passport and the business.
How long does it take before I can accept payments?
The state usually approves the LLC within a few business days, the EIN follows within a few business days after that, and a fintech bank account takes a few days more. Stripe usually decides on a complete application within a day or two.
Do I pay US tax on my Stripe income?
Not automatically. A foreign-owned LLC with no office, staff or agent in the US often owes no US income tax, but it must still file Form 5472 every year. This depends on your situation; ask a tax adviser.
This guide is general information, not legal or tax advice. Rules and fees change; check your own situation with a professional.