Can non-residents open a US bank account online in 2026?

If we give you the short answer, you have to make a pinky promise that you read this article to the end. Trust us, we have more to tell you than just ‘yes, non-residents can open a US bank account online in 2026.’ For the longer answer, there are many other things to consider. Stick with us and let’s go through this together by answering a few questions to give you a clear picture.

Can non-residents open a traditional US bank account online in 2026?

Opening a traditional US bank account, such as a Chase or Wells Fargo account, might be difficult due to their requirements. Here are the key reasons why this is next to impossible:

• Requires your physical presence: Major traditional banks often require you visit a US branch to verify your identity and complete the process.
• Requires Social Security Number (SSN): While some banks may allow an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) in place of an SSN, many automated online systems strictly require an SSN, which you might not have as a non-resident.
• Proof of US address: A physical US address is almost always required to open a traditional bank account in compliance with "Know Your Customer" (KYC) regulations.
• Traditional banks are strict on compliance: They adhere to strict regulations (KYC/AML) and find it easier to reject international applications than to verify their legitimacy remotely.

In summary, you cannot open a traditional bank account online as a non-resident living abroad. Even if a bank’s website says “open online,” the system usually blocks or flags non-US residents during the SSN/address checks.

Also read: Best banks for non-residents to open UK and US accounts

Why do non-residents open US bank accounts?

If opening a traditional US bank account can be difficult, who do people bother?

• Protects against local inflation: Keeping your earnings in USD protects against the volatility of your local currency.
• Easier international payments: A USD account lets you receive USD and make international payments with ease. Whether you are a freelancer with international clients or paying for global subscriptions or tools, a USD account makes it more straightforward.
• Reduces losses: When you receive international payments with your local account, the conversion is often done at unfavourable rates. Using a USD account help you time your conversion better and avoid losses.

How can non-residents open a US bank account online in 2026?

While non-US residents cannot open a traditional US bank account, they can still manage USD transactions seamlessly with fintech payment solutions that let you create an account from anywhere, without a physical visit. While these USD accounts might have some limitations, they are reliable and secure for receiving USD payments. They also let you keep USD, make international payments, and withdraw to your local bank account.

Which USD online banking options can non-residents use?

If you want to manage USD with ease, these are some of your best options.

Grey

This offers multicurrency accounts supporting USD, EUR, and GBP, allowing you to manage USD transactions as you would with a traditional USD account. It also seamlessly integrates with freelancing platforms like Upwork and Fiverr to withdraw your earnings. Grey offers you US banking details to receive USD with ease. It is pretty straightforward to create an account, and you can get started with Grey within minutes.

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Wise

Wise provides USD accounts with US routing and account numbers. Wise is known for transparent fees and mid-market exchange rates. It works well for freelancers and remote workers, though some features may vary depending on your country of residence.

Payoneer

Payoneer is widely used on global freelancing marketplaces. It provides USD receiving accounts and allows withdrawals to local banks. While reliable, its fees and exchange rates are generally higher and less transparent than those of newer fintechs.

PayPal

PayPal allows you to receive USD payments, but you cannot truly hold USD long-term in many countries. Withdrawals often force conversion to local currency at unfavourable rates. It works for occasional payments, but not as a long-term USD banking solution.

Why do people open US bank accounts online with Grey?

Grey remains a favourite among frequent international travellers, freelancers with global clients, and everyone managing multiple currencies. Here are the reasons non-residents open a US bank account online in 2026.

• Low fees: Grey offers a transparent fee structure with low transaction fees.
• Competitive exchange rates: Convert fees at market rates, with no hidden markups.
• Swift transactions: Transactions are processed and completed within minutes to a few hours.
• Virtual cards: Access multiple virtual cards for your international payments without requiring top-ups. These cards also work with Apple Pay and Google Pay for contactless payment.

Also read: How freelancers choose the right platform to work with

How do you open a US bank account online with Grey?

Opening a US bank account with Grey is straightforward. Follow these steps and your USD accounts will be up and running within minutes.

• Sign up on Grey’s website or on the mobile app
• Complete your ‘Know Your Customer’ verification by uploading a valid ID, a selfie, and proof of address.
• Once verified, request your USD account details.
• Share the details with clients, employers, or platforms and start receiving USD payments.

While non-residents cannot open traditional US bank accounts online from abroad, global payment solutions like Grey offer multicurrency accounts that support USD transactions without physically visiting a bank or wading through paperwork. Manage your USD at low cost and withdraw to your local accounts at competitive exchange rates.

Download the app and sign up on Grey today to manage USD transactions without breaking a sweat.

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