If you're selling on Amazon from outside the US, you've likely encountered several challenges, such as delayed payments, limited access to seller tools, or difficulties verifying your account. That's because Amazon US still favors businesses with a US presence.
Increasingly, international sellers are recognizing this and opting to register a US business, obtain a US address, and establish a US account.
Why? Because it works.
In this guide, we’ll break down why having a US business setup matters, what countries most foreign sellers come from, and the key tools and programs you unlock when you operate like a local. We’ll also show you how to set everything up, even if you’re not a US citizen.
Why US Business Details Matter for Foreign Amazon Sellers
Running an Amazon store from outside the US? You might still be able to sell, but you’ll soon realize that not having US business credentials puts you at a big disadvantage.
Here’s why having a US business address and a US account can change the game:
Faster and Easier Payouts
Amazon prefers to deposit earnings into a US-based bank account. Without one, foreign sellers often deal with currency conversion delays, additional transfer fees, or payout hold times. A US checking account solves this.
Access to US-Only Seller Programs
Programs like Amazon Lending, which offers lines of credit or cash advances, Launchpad, and brand registry benefits on Amazon.com are only available to sellers with a US-registered business and a US address. Without those, you’re left out of powerful growth opportunities.
Smoother Account Verification
Amazon has been tightening its Know Your Customer (KYC) checks. Having a US LLC, a valid EIN, and a real US address makes it far easier to pass verification and avoid unnecessary account suspension or re-verification requests.
Unlock US-Only Tools and Payment Processors
Tools like Stripe US, Plaid, and some ad platforms won’t approve accounts tied to foreign businesses. A US setup allows you to use these tools confidently and scale faster.
Setting up a US-based Stripe account can be highly beneficial for non-US business owners, particularly if Stripe isn’t available in their home country. By forming a US LLC, obtaining an EIN, and opening a US bank account, entrepreneurs can legally access Stripe and enjoy a fully functional payment gateway.
This setup also allows access to more payment options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, ACH, and Buy Now, Pay Later services, features often limited or unavailable in non-US Stripe accounts.
Beyond technical perks, a US Stripe account can enhance business credibility, especially with American customers who tend to trust businesses with a US presence. It may also offer lower transaction fees, more flexible currency options, and easier integration with US-centric platforms like Amazon and Shopify.
Altogether, this makes the US Stripe account a strategic move for global business growth.
Build Trust With US Customers
Having a US business address listed on your Amazon profile can add credibility. Shoppers often feel more secure buying from a seller that appears local, even if they’re shipping from overseas.
The bottom line here is that you can sell on Amazon without US business credentials, but you’ll likely face more friction. With a US setup, you’ll run your store smoothly, get paid faster, and have access to growth tools that most global sellers miss out on.
Where Are These Amazon Sellers From?
You might be surprised to know that a huge chunk of Amazon sellers aren’t based in the United States. Amazon has become a global platform, attracting entrepreneurs from all over the world.
Here are some of the most common countries where foreign Amazon sellers are based:
China
Chinese sellers make up a large portion of Amazon’s third-party marketplace. Many are manufacturers or wholesalers who sell directly to global buyers, including US customers.
United Kingdom
UK-based sellers often use Amazon.com to reach the US market, especially when their home market becomes saturated. They usually already understand Western business culture and e-commerce standards.
India
India is a growing hotspot for Amazon entrepreneurs, particularly in private-label and handmade goods. Many use the platform to scale their products globally.
Canada
Canadian sellers naturally gravitate toward the US marketplace due to proximity, shared language, and higher customer volume.
Germany, Australia, and the UAE
These countries are rising fast in the Amazon world. Sellers here often expand to the US after building a strong foundation in their local marketplaces.
Benefits of Having a US Business Address and Account
If you're selling on Amazon.com from outside the US, having a US business address and bank account is always a game-changer if you’re planning to expand your business.
Here’s why it matters:
Smoother Amazon Seller Registration
Amazon may ask for a US address and bank account during account setup or verification. Having both ready speeds up the process and avoids back-and-forth delays.
Access to US-Only Tools and Programs
Some Amazon programs, like Amazon Lending or Amazon Brand Registry, are only available to US-registered businesses. The same goes for certain beta features and marketing tools that roll out in the US first.
Easier Payment Setup
With a US business bank account, you avoid expensive international transfer fees. It’s also easier to integrate with US-based platforms like:
- Stripe (US version only available to US businesses)
- Shopify Payments
- Payoneer (with better rates for US accounts)
Better Trust and Legitimacy
Having a US business address can help your Amazon store (and other online platforms) look more credible to customers, banks, and partners. It shows that you’re serious and established.
Faster Payouts
With a US bank account, Amazon can process and send your payouts faster than routing funds internationally. That means quicker access to cash for restocking or advertising.
Seamless Tax Compliance
Even as a non-resident, having a US entity and bank account can make it easier to track and report income properly, especially if you're using tax professionals or automated tools that prefer US banking info.
US-Only or US-Preferred Tools and Programs
Once you're set up with a US business address and bank account, you can unlock a whole toolbox of resources that aren’t available to non-US businesses—or are much harder to access without one.
Here are some of the most useful ones:
Stripe (US-based)
Stripe is one of the most popular payment processors for e-commerce businesses. But here’s the catch: the US version of Stripe is only available to businesses with a US EIN and US bank account. That’s why many foreign sellers choose to register their LLCs in the US just to access Stripe.
Amazon Brand Registry
If you're serious about building a brand, this is a must. Amazon Brand Registry gives you access to tools like A+ content, better brand protection, and advertising insights. But it’s only available if your brand is registered in the US (or specific other countries) and linked to a US business entity.
Amazon Lending
Need a loan to restock or expand? Amazon Lending offers financing, but it’s only available to sellers with US-registered businesses and US bank accounts.
Shopify Payments (US)
While Shopify is global, Shopify Payments in the US has lower fees and fewer payout delays than what’s offered in other regions. Again, you’ll need a US business to access this.
Easier Access to US-Based SaaS Tools
Some US-based business tools, like QuickBooks Online (US version), Gusto (for payroll), or Mercury (for banking), work best or only with US business information.
How to Get a US Business Address and Account as a Foreign Seller
You don’t have to live in the US to start a US business. Thousands of international Amazon sellers do it every year. Here's how you can do it too, step by step.
Step 1: Form a US LLC
First, you’ll need to set up a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in the US You can choose any state, but most foreign sellers go for states like Wyoming, Delaware, or Florida due to lower fees and business-friendly rules.
To form your LLC, you’ll typically need:
- A business name
- A registered agent in the US
- Articles of Incorporation
Pro tip: If you're unsure how to do this, Adro offers help with LLC formation for non-residents. You can read more about their business registration service here.
Step 2: Get Your EIN from the IRS
Once your LLC is set up, you’ll need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS. This is like your business’s tax ID.
You can apply for it even without a Social Security Number (SSN), and once approved, this EIN is what you’ll use to open your US business bank account and register for platforms like Stripe and Amazon.
Step 3: Set Up a US Business Address
A US address is necessary for opening accounts and receiving business mail. You can get one by:
- Using a registered agent’s mailing service
- Signing up for a virtual business address
- Renting a physical mailbox from companies like USPS or iPostal1
Make sure your chosen address looks professional and is accepted by financial institutions.
Step 4: Open a US Business Account
Finally, with your LLC and EIN ready, you can open a US business checking account. Some banks may require you to show up in person, but not all.
Adro makes it easy for non-residents to open a business bank account. If you already have your LLC and EIN, you can open an account online with Adro right away.
If you’re just getting started, you can sign up on Adro and get help with every step, from forming your LLC to getting your EIN.
How Adro Can Help
If all of this sounds a bit overwhelming, don’t worry, Adro is here to make things easier. Whether you’ve already set up your US business or you’re just getting started, Adro is built specifically for global entrepreneurs like you.
Here’s how Adro helps at every step:
Already Have a US Business?
If your LLC is already formed and you’ve got your EIN:
- Open a US business checking account online — no need to fly to the US
- Enjoy no monthly fees, easy transfers, and tools designed for e-commerce and Amazon sellers
- Get a US business address, so you look professional and meet platform requirements
- You can skip the hassle and start using your US account right away
Still Need to Set Up Your Business?
No problem. Adro can help you from the very beginning:
- LLC Formation: We’ll help you register your US company, even if you’re outside the US
- EIN Application: We’ll walk you through the process, or apply on your behalf
- Full Business Setup: You can get everything done in one place, fast and correctly
Everything in One Dashboard
With Adro, you’ll have one simple dashboard to:
- View and manage your US business checking account
- Access your EIN and formation documents
- Use other business tools built for global business owners
Final Thoughts
Selling on Amazon from outside the US comes with its hurdles, but with the right tools, they’re easy to overcome. A US business address and bank account don’t just make you look more professional, they open doors to better payment options, trusted tools, and exclusive programs that help your business grow faster.
If you're ready to take the next step, Adro makes it simple. Whether you’re forming a new LLC or need a US checking account, we’re here to help you launch and scale with confidence.
Get started with your US business account at Adro today.
