Hey Guys, We'll be visiting US in November and we would like to open a bank account while we are there as most companies such as Paypal require you to have a US bank account if you would like to transact/withdraw with them. I would like to get some information on what the requirements would be for a foreigner/tourist to open a bank account. Which bank would be the most flexible in terms of opening accounts for non-us residents ? Are laws/rules regarding this more relaxed in some of the states ? If so which ? Thanks in advance for your time and assistance. Regards,
You will need to make an initial deposit when you open a bank account in US. You will also need to do somepaper work. The best way to do it, is to search for a bank, and ask them by phone/email, what you need in order to open an account.
As a foreigner if you are able to get to U.S. then it is possible to open a personal account for a foreigner. First you'll pay your plane ticket, then you'll need to find a bank account who will open an account for you. You'll need your passport, typically a drivers license or other photo id, one or two bank references from your bank in your country of origin, many will ask you for a U.S. address, and your basic deposit. For a business account you'll need your certificate of incorporation and an EIN which is extremely difficult to get unless you have a social security number. Some banks refuse to open accounts for foreigners even with a U.S. based company which is really ridiculous in my opinion. If you are interested in a U.S. business account we should be able to help you. I say should because there is always the possibility you're in a red flag country, but otherwise it's possible. We can handle opening your company, obtaining your EIN number and getting a business account with a major U.S. bank that is very business friendly and has branches throughout the U.S. It includes checking, ATM/debit card, online access and is completely in your name. We speak English, French, and Spanish. Let me know if you would like more information.