How to Open a Virtual Bank Account in the U.S. Without Being a Resident

Access to a U.S. bank account is no longer a privilege reserved for citizens or residents. Thanks to virtual bank accounts, anyone —regardless of their country of origin— can now manage money in U.S. dollars, send remittances, shop online, or even invest, all without ever setting foot in a traditional bank branch.

In this guide, we’ll explain what a virtual bank account in the U.S. is, how to open one from your home country, and the benefits it offers for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to expand their financial access.

What Is a Virtual Bank Account in the U.S.?

A virtual bank account in the U.S. is an account that you can open and manage 100% online, without needing to reside in the country or visit a bank office. These accounts offer many of the same features as traditional bank accounts: receive payments, make transfers, get a debit card, pay bills, and more.

They’re usually backed by regulated financial institutions in the U.S., meaning your money may be protected by the FDIC, just like a U.S. citizen’s.

Who Can Open a Virtual Bank Account?

Virtual accounts are especially designed for people who:

• Don’t live in the U.S. but need to operate in U.S. dollars
• Are newcomers to the U.S. and don’t have a Social Security Number (SSN) yet
• Work remotely for U.S.-based clients
• Sell products or services on platforms like Amazon, Shopify, or Fiverr
• Want to send money to their families in Latin America quickly and with low fees

In most cases, you don’t need a visa, SSN, or a physical address in the U.S. to access these financial solutions.

Benefits of Having a Virtual Bank Account in the U.S.

• Borderless access: Open your account from anywhere in the world
• Operate in USD: Save and invest in a strong, stable currency
• Physical and digital debit cards: Many platforms offer VISA or Mastercard options usable globally
• Lower international transfer fees: Cheaper than traditional banks
• No hidden charges: Some platforms have no fees for maintenance, overdrafts, or minimum balances
• More financial opportunities: Build credit history, pay for subscriptions, receive payments, and more

Recommended Platforms to Open a U.S. Virtual Bank Account

Here are some of the most trusted solutions to open a U.S. bank account without being a resident:

MyBambu

A platform built for Latin American migrants. You can open an account in minutes using only a valid ID from your country. Highlights include:

• Physical and digital VISA® card
• Send money to over 17 countries in Latin America
• Free transfers between users
• Rewards and referral bonuses

Zenus Bank

A U.S. bank with global coverage. Open a full-featured bank account from anywhere in the world:

• Full checking account (not prepaid)
• International transfers (SWIFT, Wire, Zenus)
• 100% reserve bank (they don’t lend or invest your money)
• Secure, modern app

Wise

Not a bank, but Wise offers a multi-currency account with U.S. bank details (account number and routing number):

• No maintenance fees
• Currency exchange at real market rates
• International debit card
• Manage funds in over 40 currencies

DolarApp

A fintech designed for Latin American users who want to operate in U.S. dollars:

• U.S. account with real banking details (Bangor Savings Bank, FDIC-insured)
• International Mastercard (physical and digital)
• Automatic currency conversion between pesos and dollars for local payments
• Ideal for freelancers, migrants, and anyone receiving USD payments

Each platform has its strengths, and the right choice depends on your goals: saving, getting paid, investing, or sending money.

What Documents Do You Need?

Requirements vary by platform, but generally include:

• Official ID (passport, national ID, or driver’s license)
• Facial verification (real-time selfie)
• Phone number and email address
• In some cases, proof of address or an ITIN

The best part: you don’t need a visa or Social Security Number to get started.

What Can You Use a Virtual Bank Account For?

These accounts are flexible and can fit a variety of use cases:

• Digital entrepreneurs: To get paid in dollars and pay for international tools
• Freelancers: To receive payments from U.S. clients with no costly intermediaries
• Migrants: To send remittances or receive local payments
• Latin American users: To save in USD, shop online, or subscribe to digital services

FAQs About Virtual Bank Accounts in the U.S.

Do I need to live in the U.S. to open a virtual account?
No. You can open it from your country, as long as you have a valid ID.

How safe are these accounts?
They are as safe as traditional banks, provided the platform is backed by a regulated U.S. institution, like MyBambu, Zenus, or DolarApp.

Can I receive payments in my virtual account?
Yes. You can use your account to receive payments from platforms like PayPal, Stripe, Upwork, and others, thanks to having a valid U.S. account and routing number.

Can I use the debit card in my country?
Yes. Both physical and digital cards work in physical stores and online, and some even allow payments in your local currency.

Take the First Step Toward Your U.S. Dollar Account

Having a virtual bank account in the U.S. unlocks a world of financial opportunities. You don’t need to be a resident or hold a visa — just the right guidance and tools.

At Openbiz, we help you identify the best option based on your profile and financial goals.

Contact us today and start managing your money in dollars with confidence and professional support.

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