For non-residents looking to accept payments online, having a US Stripe account is a must. However, unlike setting up a personal Stripe account, a business Stripe account requires proper documentation, verification, and a structured process. Whether you already have a US-registered company or need one formed first, Business Globalizer makes the process easier. Below is a step-by-step breakdown of how long it takes and what to expect.
Step 1: Placing an Order for a US Stripe Account
The process officially starts when the client selects a package—either a standalone US Stripe account service or a company formation package that includes Stripe setup. Once the order is confirmed and payment is processed, the client must submit the necessary documents.
Scenario 1: Getting a US Stripe Account as a Non-Resident (With an Existing US Company)
If the client already owns a US-registered business, they can apply for a Stripe account separately. The required documents include:
- Certificate of Incorporation (Official proof of company registration)
- Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Photo ID (Clear picture of Passport, NID smart card, or Driving License)
- Bank Statement (Used for address verification)
- Business Email (Must be professional and accessible)
- Valid and Working Business Website
- US Phone Number (A real, working number—virtual numbers are often rejected)
- US Business Bank Account Details (Required for receiving Stripe payouts)
Scenario 2: Getting a US Stripe Account with a US Company Formation Package
If the client does not have a US company yet, the process starts with company formation. To proceed, the following documents are required:
- Personal Identification Document (Clear photo of Passport, NID, or Driving License)
- Proof of Residential Address (Recent bank statement or utility bill)
Other Required Information:
- Proposed Company Name
- Company Type/Structure (LLC, Corporation, etc.)
- Business Description
- Phone Number for Communication
- Email Address for Communication
- Organizer Name of the Company
Additional Requirements for Multi-Member Businesses
- Ownership Details (Information on Owners/Shareholders/Members)
- EIN Responsible Party Details
Note: When submitting a passport photo, place it on a flat white surface with even lighting to avoid glare. Use a high-resolution camera, keep your hands steady, and make sure no fingers, shadows, or reflections obscure the details.
Step 2: Document Verification
Once all documents are submitted, Business Globalizer carefully reviews each one. If anything is missing, unclear, or incorrect, the client will be asked to provide the correct details. This is a crucial step, as even a small mistake can delay the entire process.
Step 3: Stripe Account Setup or Company Formation Process
If the client already has a US company, Business Globalizer proceeds with creating the Stripe account.
For those who need a company formed first, the process follows these steps:
- Company Formation: The business is officially registered in the US.
- EIN Issuance: An EIN (Employer Identification Number) will be issued from the IRS.
- Bank Account Setup: A US business bank account is opened to receive payouts.
- Stripe Account Creation: Once all requirements are met, the Stripe account is set up.
Processing Time
Scenario 1: With an Existing US Company
2-4 business days (varies depending on ID verifying, business bank account linking, etc.).
Scenario 2: With Company Formation Package
Processing time depends on:
- Company formation (2-15 days)
- EIN issuance (20-25 business days)
- Business Bank account opening (4-6 business days)
- Stripe account setup (2-4 business days)
What Causes Delays?
Even though Business Globalizer follows a structured step-by-step process, delays happen—usually due to factors outside our control:
- Stripe’s Internal Review Process: Sometimes Stripe places applications under manual review for additional verification.
- Photo ID Verification Delay: Sometimes, photo ID verification takes a lot of time; hence the delay.
- Issues with Adding a Phone Number: If the client uses a virtual number that doesn’t work for verification, it causes delays.
- Bank Account Linking Fails: If the US bank account doesn’t meet Stripe’s requirements, the process stalls.
- Delays in EIN Issuance: The IRS sometimes takes longer than expected to process EIN applications.
- Mismatched Business Information: If company details don’t match across all documents, Stripe flags the account.
Common Mistakes That Cause Delays
Many delays happen because clients submit incorrect or incomplete information. Here are the most common mistakes:
- Blurry or Expired Passport Copies: Stripe requires a clear, valid passport photo.
- Using a Free or Temporary Email Address: Business emails must be professional and accessible.
- Providing an Invalid US Phone Number: The phone number must be real and able to receive SMS verification.
- Website Looks Unprofessional or Is Missing: Stripe checks if the business looks legitimate, so a fully functioning website is essential.
Reasons for Stripe Application Rejection
If a Stripe account application is rejected, it’s usually because of one of these reasons:
- Business Type Not Supported by Stripe: Some industries are considered high-risk and won’t be approved.
- Mismatch in Business Details: All details must match across company formation, EIN, bank, and Stripe applications.
- Previously Suspended Stripe Account: If the client had a prior Stripe account that was suspended, they may get rejected.
- Bank Account Not Compatible: Some US banks don’t support Stripe payouts.
- Stripe Considers the Business High Risk: Certain types of businesses are automatically flagged for compliance issues.
Important Disclaimer: Business Globalizer’s Role in the Process
Business Globalizer assists clients in obtaining a US Stripe account by ensuring that all required documents are in order, guiding them through the setup process, and troubleshooting issues. However, we do not control Stripe’s internal review process, approval timelines, or compliance decisions.
While we provide full support, we cannot:
- Speed up Stripe’s verification process.
- Guarantee approval if Stripe determines an issue.
- Override Stripe’s compliance decisions.
If Stripe requests additional documentation or verification, the client must comply.
Refund Policy
Once the Stripe account setup process has started, refunds are generally not available, as third-party services (banks, Stripe, and the IRS) incur fees immediately.
Refunds may be considered if:
- The client cancels before processing begins (case-by-case basis).
- Business Globalizer is unable to proceed due to internal issues.
No refunds will be issued if:
- The Stripe application has already been submitted.
- Delays occur due to bank verification, company formation, or Stripe’s internal review.
- The client submits incorrect, incomplete, or fraudulent information.
- Stripe rejects the application based on their own risk policies.
To learn more about refunds, check our refund policy page. For refund concerns, clients can contact support to review their case.
How to Contact Us?
- Existing Clients: Get support effortlessly by accessing your dashboard for direct assistance.
- New Clients: Interested in company formation or other services? Connect with our support team through official channels or schedule a consultation for professional guidance.
Final Thoughts
Getting a US Stripe account as a non-resident requires proper documentation and patience. Business Globalizer ensures that everything is handled efficiently, but final approval depends on Stripe, banks, and government agencies.
If you want a smooth setup process, let us handle the details so you can focus on growing your business.
Need help? Contact Business Globalizer today to get started.
