Country guide
US Banking for Indian Founders: Mercury, Wise and Payoneer
Quick answer
Mercury is available for India (verify at application), and Wise Business and Payoneer also work for receiving USD. You'll generally need your US LLC and EIN first. No provider approval is guaranteed. HIGH, Mercury policy; India not on the prohibited list
Key facts
- Mercury is available for India (not on its prohibited list as of 2026-06-16. Verify at application). HIGH
- Wise Business gives real US routing/account numbers; Payoneer is widely used by Indian freelancers. MEDIUM
- You typically need a US entity + EIN to apply. MEDIUM
- Moving funds to India intersects with RBI/FEMA rules. Confirm with a CA. NEEDS LOCAL EXPERT REVIEW
What this means for you (India)
Mercury is a realistic option here, but compare it with Wise/Payoneer on fees and on what your clients can pay through. Keep documentation consistent, and confirm with an Indian CA how repatriating USD to India works under FEMA.
Frequently asked questions
Can Indian founders open Mercury?
India isn't on Mercury's prohibited list; many do. Verify at application. HIGH
Do I need a US company?
Yes, with an EIN and formation documents. MEDIUM
Is approval guaranteed?
No. Rule
Sources used
- Mercury, Prohibited countries (India absent): support.mercury.com (verified 2026-06-16)
- Wise / Payoneer help centers · RBI/FEMA (local block, reviewed by a CA)
Related
- US LLC for Founders in India: Formation, EIN and Banking (2026)The full country guide
- Open a U.S. Business Bank Account From AbroadThe general guide on this topic
Provider lists change. Verify at application; no approval guaranteed. FEMA/repatriation: confirm with an Indian CA. See the India guide and banking guide.
Last updated: September 1, 2026.
Next step
Check the banking-eligibility tool, then start your US LLC with Prolify.