If you own or plan to establish a US LLC and live outside the United States, the first question that comes to mind is likely: “How do I open a bank account for my company?”
Given the complexities of traditional banks, two options stand out as the most popular and widespread: Mercury andWise (Formerly known as TransferWise).
But what's the difference between them? Are both suitable for foreign-owned US companies? And which one offers better services, cost, and support?
In this extensive article, we'll take you on a detailed journey, explaining every aspect of these two digital banks and helping you make the best decision for your business. At the end of the article, you'll discover how we can personally help you open a company and US bank account with ease.
First: A comprehensive definition of Mercury
Mercury It's an American online bank designed specifically for startups and tech entrepreneurs, but in recent years it has also become an ideal haven for foreign LLC owners looking to open a US bank account.
✅ Its most prominent features:
- Official US account with Routing Number andAccount Number.
- Compatible with Stripe andPayPal andShopify andAmazon.
- Offers cards Visa Virtual and physical.
- Does not require SSN (Social Security Number) for foreigners.
- Supports companies registered in Delaware، Wyoming, and others.
- Professional and easy interface.
️Is it safe?
Yes. Mercury is not a traditional bank, but it deals with Evolve Bank & Trust, a US bank chartered by the FDIC, meaning your accounts are insured up to $250,000.
Fees:
- Account opening: Free
- Monthly fees: zero
- Transfer fees within the US: Free
- International Wire transfer fees: starting at approximately $20
Second: What is Wise?
Wise It is a British digital bank, its previous name is TransferWiseBut it has expanded globally and now provides banking services to business owners everywhere, even those who do not have a physical presence or residence in America.
✅ Its features:
- Open a multi-currency account (USD, EUR, GBP, etc.).
- Get US account details (such as routing and account number).
- Transfer money internationally with very low fees.
- card Visa Virtual and physical.
- Excellent support for online businesses.
Important note:
A Wise bank account is not a real US bank, but rather a financial interface operated through partnerships with real banks.
Third: A detailed comparison between Mercury and Wise
| The worker | Mercury | Wise |
|---|---|---|
| Bank account type | Official American | semi-formal |
| Routing and account number | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| bank card | ✅ Virtual and physical visa | ✅ Virtual and physical visa |
| Supported currencies | US Dollars only | More than 50 currencies |
| Stripe platform support | ✅ Supported | ❌ Limited |
| PayPal Support | ✅ Supported | ❌ Sometimes it doesn't work |
| Internal transfer fees | ❌ Free | ❌ Very low |
| International transfer fees | ❌ Relatively high | ✅ Very low |
| Account opening requirements | US company + EIN only | US company + personal documents |
| Multi-currency support | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Security and Protection | ✅ Under FDIC | ❌ Not covered by FDIC |
Fourth: Who do we recommend Mercury for?
- If your company LLC Inside America.
- Targeting customers from America.
- You need to receive payments from Stripe and PayPal.
- Want a professional official account with protection?
- You want to expand into the US market.
Who do we recommend Wise to?
- If you deal in multiple currencies around the world.
- Your company relies on international invoices.
- Global platforms are used outside of America.
- You don't need Stripe or PayPal much.
- Want a quick, temporary solution or support for international transfers?
Fifth: The most important frequently asked questions
1. Can I open an account from my country? Yes. Whether you're in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, or Türkiye, you can open a Mercury or Wise account completely remotely.
2. Do I need a Social Security number? No, if your company is registered as a US LLC, you can apply using only the EIN.
3. Does Mercury accept new companies? Yes, once you register your company and obtain an EIN, you can apply.
4. Is Wise safe? Yes, although it is not an American bank in the traditional sense, it is licensed by European and American financial authorities.
Sixth: How can we help you?
We provide a comprehensive service for registering a US company and opening an online bank account without the need to travel. Our services include:
✅ Form a US LLC (in Delaware or Wyoming) ✅ Obtain an EIN from the IRS ✅ Open a bank account in Mercury andWise ✅ Prepare your account in Stripe andPayPal ✅ Linking the website or online store to payment accounts ✅ Continuous support and free consultations
Seventh: Conclusion - Which bank should I choose?
If you are looking for an official US bank account and want to deal with US payment platforms such as Stripe and PayPal, we recommend: Mercury.
If you focus on international transfers, and work with clients from Europe and Asia, then Wise Also a good option.
But the best? To have both accounts! Mercury is used as an internal account manager, and Wise as a smart money transfer tool.
Contact us now
If you're serious about building your US business and opening a strong bank account, we're here to help you step by step. Don't waste your time with trial and error.
Book your free consultation now, and we'll do everything for you within a few days.
WhatsApp: +905372851589
