If you own or plan to form a US LLC while living outside the United States, the first question that probably comes to mind is: “How do I open a bank account for my company?”
With the complications of traditional banks, two options stand out as among the most popular and widespread: Mercury andWise (formerly known as TransferWise).
But what is the difference between them? Are both suitable for US companies owned by foreigners? And which is better in terms of services, cost, and support?
In this long article we will take you on a detailed journey explaining every aspect of these two digital banks, and help you make the best decision for your company. At the end of the article, you will find how we can personally help you open the company and the US bank account easily.
First: A Complete Introduction to Mercury
Mercury It is a US online bank designed specifically for startup owners and tech projects, but in recent years it has also become an ideal haven for owners of foreign LLCs who want to open a US bank account.
✅ Its key features:
- An official US account with a Routing Number andAccount Number.
- Compatible with Stripe andPayPal andShopify andAmazon.
- Offers Visa virtual and physical cards.
- Does not require an SSN (Social Security Number) for foreigners.
- Supports companies registered in Delaware, Wyoming, and others.
- A professional, easy interface.
Is it safe?
Yes. Mercury is not a traditional bank, but it works with Evolve Bank & Trust, an FDIC-insured US bank, meaning your accounts are insured up to $250,000.
Fees:
- Opening an account: free
- Monthly fees: zero
- Transfers inside America: free
- International wire transfers: starting at around $20
Second: What Is Wise?
Wise It is a digital bank of British origin, formerly named TransferWise, but it expanded globally and now offers banking services to business owners from everywhere, even those without residency or a physical presence inside America.
✅ Its features:
- Opening a multi-currency account (USD, EUR, GBP, and others).
- Getting US account details (such as a routing number and account number).
- Transferring money internationally at very low fees.
- A card Visa virtual and physical cards.
- Excellent support for companies that work online.
Important note:
A Wise bank account is not a real US bank, but a financial front end operated through partnerships with real banks.
Third: A Detailed Comparison Between Mercury and Wise
| Factor | Mercury | Wise |
|---|---|---|
| Type of bank account | Official US | Semi-official |
| Routing and account number | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Bank card | ✅ Virtual and physical Visa | ✅ Virtual and physical Visa |
| Supported currencies | US dollar only | More than 50 currencies |
| Stripe support | ✅ Supported | ❌ Limited |
| PayPal support | ✅ Supported | ❌ Sometimes does not work |
| Domestic transfer fees | ❌ Free | ❌ Very low |
| International transfer fees | ❌ Relatively high | ✅ Very low |
| Account opening requirements | A US company + an EIN only | A US company + personal documents |
| Multi-currency support | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Security and protection | ✅ FDIC insured | ❌ Not covered by FDIC |
Fourth: Who Do We Recommend Mercury For?
- If your company is LLC inside America.
- Targets customers from America.
- Needs to receive payments from Stripe and PayPal.
- Wants an official, professional account with protection.
- Wants to expand inside the US market.
And Who Do We Recommend Wise For?
- If you deal in multiple currencies around the world.
- Your company relies on international invoices.
- You use global platforms outside America.
- You do not need Stripe or PayPal much.
- You want a quick, temporary solution or support for international transfers.
Fifth: The Most Important Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I open the account from my country? Yes. Whether you are in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, Turkey... you can open a Mercury or Wise account entirely remotely.
2. Do I need a Social Security Number? No. If your company is registered as a US LLC, you can apply using an EIN only.
3. Does Mercury accept new companies? Yes. Once you register your company and get an EIN, you can apply.
4. Is Wise safe? Yes. Although it is not a US bank in the traditional sense, it is licensed by European and American financial authorities.
Sixth: How Can We Help You?
We provide a complete service for registering a US company and opening an online bank account without the need to travel. Our services include:
✅ Forming a US LLC (in Delaware or Wyoming) ✅ Getting the EIN tax number from the IRS ✅ Opening a bank account at Mercury andWise ✅ Setting up your account at Stripe andPayPal ✅ Connecting your website or online store to payment accounts ✅ Ongoing support and free consultations
Seventh: Summary, Which Bank Should I Choose?
If you are looking for an official US bank account and want to work with US payment platforms such as Stripe and PayPal, we recommend Mercury.
But if you focus on international transfers and work with clients from Europe and Asia, Wise is also a suitable choice.
But the best option? Have both accounts together! Use Mercury as your official domestic account, and Wise as a smart tool for money transfers.
Contact Us Now
If you are serious about building your US company and opening a strong bank account, we are here to help you step by step. Do not waste your time on trial and error.
Book your free consultation now, and we will do everything for you within a few days.
WhatsApp: +905372851589
