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Direct-Merchant.Org

Offshore merchant accounts

Sell to US customers, wherever you're based.

Not a US citizen? An offshore merchant account lets international businesses accept payments from US and global customers, with multi-currency support, global gateways and strong fraud protection.

Multi-currency · Global gateways · Fraud prevention · High-risk friendly

Selling to the US as a non-US businessHow offshore merchant accounts work, in a few minutes.
Why offshore

Built for international businesses.

Secure, efficient payment processing for entrepreneurs outside the US.

Reach US & global customers

Accept payments from customers around the world, not just your home market.

Multi-currency payments

Let international customers pay in their own currency, for a smoother checkout.

Diversify your processing

Don't rely on a single processor. A second account keeps you selling if one is reviewed or disrupted.

Industry fit

Offshore acquirers often accept business models that domestic banks decline, for high-risk and low-risk businesses alike.

High-risk accounts →

Limits that fit your volume

Processing limits can be set for larger volumes, based on your history and underwriting.

Fraud prevention & support

Robust fraud screening on every transaction, and a dedicated team to help you at every step.

Choose your route

Two ways to sell to the US from abroad.

The right one depends on your business, industry and where you're based. We'll tell you which fits.

Route 1

Offshore merchant account

Your business stays where it is, and an international acquirer processes your payments.

  • No US company needed
  • Good fit for high-risk models
  • Rates and reserves are usually higher
Apply for offshore
Route 2

US company + US processing

Form a US LLC with an EIN and a US bank account, then apply to US gateways like Stripe US, Authorize.net and NMI.

  • Often lower rates
  • Domestic checkout US customers trust
  • Takes longer to set up, with US filings
US company setup →
How to apply

Quick and straightforward.

Fill in the application and our team reviews it promptly.

Step 1

Apply online

Tell us about your business, country, website, monthly volume and where your customers are.

Step 2

We prepare your file

We check your documents and website against acquirer rules and submit to acquirers that fit your model.

Step 3

Start accepting payments

Once approved, your gateway is connected and you can take payments from US and global customers.

FAQ

Offshore accounts, explained.

Still have a question? Ask us on WhatsApp.

Is it legal to have an offshore merchant account?
Yes. An offshore merchant account is legal as long as your business follows the laws of the acquirer's jurisdiction and your home country, including tax and foreign exchange reporting. Speak to your accountant about what applies to you.
Will I face currency conversion issues?
Usually not. Most offshore accounts support multiple currencies, so customers can pay in theirs. Conversion fees may apply when funds settle in a different currency.
Can I bring funds back to my home country?
Yes, most offshore accounts let you transfer funds to your domestic bank account. Rules depend on the jurisdiction and your home country, for example foreign exchange rules for businesses in India.
Are offshore accounts only for high-risk businesses?
No. They're common for high-risk businesses because offshore acquirers accept a wider range of industries, but low-risk businesses use them too, for global reach and as a backup to a domestic processor.
How long does setup take?
It varies by jurisdiction and acquirer, from a few days to a couple of weeks. A complete application with all documents ready is the fastest route.
What fees should I expect?
Typically an application or setup fee, transaction fees, monthly fees and sometimes currency conversion or rolling reserve terms. We'll show you the full fee picture before you commit, so you can compare.

Success knows no borders.

Apply for an offshore merchant account today and start selling to US and global customers with confidence.

Direct-Merchant.org provides consulting and application support only. We are not a bank, payment processor or acquirer, and we do not hold or move funds. Approval, pricing, processing limits, reserves and account terms are decided solely by the acquirer, and approval is never guaranteed. Every applicant goes through full identity and business verification. You are responsible for complying with the laws of your home country, including tax, foreign exchange and reporting obligations; nothing on this page is tax or legal advice. We work only with lawful businesses.