Why Open a US Brokerage Account?
US brokerages offer direct access to the world's deepest capital markets. ETFs, stocks, bonds, and options at lower costs than most non-US platforms.
Note for U.S. citizens: If you are a US citizen or green card holder, you are subject to worldwide US tax reporting. All brokerage account activity will be reportable to the IRS.
Open your US brokerage account with full support.
100% Remote Opening - No US visit required, open from anywhere
World-Class Brokerages - Schwab, Fidelity, Interactive Brokers
SIPC Protection - US investor protection up to $500,000
USD Accounts - Hold and invest in US dollars
Low Fees - Commission-free trading on most US stocks and ETFs
Global Access - Trade US markets from anywhere
Tax Treaty Benefits - W-8BEN reduces dividend withholding for eligible countries
Who Is This For?
Non-US residents with an ITIN who want direct access to US equity and ETF markets
International entrepreneurs and investors who have established a US business or tax presence
Clients who have completed our ITIN service and are ready to build a US financial footprint
High-net-worth individuals seeking USD-denominated assets held at a reputable US custodian
Digital nomads and location-independent professionals who maintain a US address
The Process
Step 1: Initial Consultation
We review your current situation including ITIN status, US address, tax residency, and investment goals to confirm eligibility and identify the most suitable brokerage.
Step 2: Brokerage Selection
We advise on the best fit between Charles Schwab International, Fidelity, and Interactive Brokers based on your country of residence, investment objectives, and account minimums.
Step 3: Document Preparation
We prepare and review your full application package including identity documents, ITIN documentation, proof of US address, and any additional forms required.
Step 4: Application Submission
We guide you through the application process step by step. Where required, we coordinate notarization, apostille, or certified translation of supporting documents.
Step 5: Follow-Up and Approval
We liaise with the brokerage compliance team on your behalf, respond to additional information requests, and keep you updated throughout the review process.
Step 6: Account Activation
Once approved, we walk you through funding your account, platform navigation, and initial setup steps.
Requirements
The following are mandatory requirements to open a US brokerage account as a non-US resident:
ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) - All major US brokerages require a valid ITIN for non-US persons. If you do not yet have an ITIN, we can assist. See our ITIN service.
US physical address - A valid US street address is required. PO boxes are not accepted. This can be a registered address associated with a US LLC or a personal address.
In addition, you will typically need:
Valid passport (government-issued photo ID)
Proof of US address (utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement dated within 90 days)
Source of funds documentation (depending on account size and brokerage requirements)
Completed W-8BEN form (certifies foreign status for tax withholding purposes)
What's Included
Initial eligibility review and brokerage recommendation
Full application preparation and document review
Step-by-step guidance through the application process
Coordination of any additional compliance or KYC requests from the brokerage
W-8BEN preparation and review
Post-approval onboarding walkthrough
Direct access to your Jerz Group advisor throughout the process
Timeline
| Milestone | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Document preparation and application submission | 3-7 business days |
| Brokerage review and compliance processing | 2-6 weeks |
| Account approval and activation | 1-3 business days after approval |
Total time from engagement to an active, funded account is typically 4-8 weeks. Interactive Brokers tends to process non-US applications faster than Schwab or Fidelity.
Important Notes
Not all nationalities are eligible - US brokerages maintain restricted country lists that change periodically. We confirm eligibility before you engage.
Account minimums vary - Some brokerages require an initial deposit to activate the account.
Tax reporting obligations apply - As an ITIN holder investing through a US brokerage, you may have annual US tax filing obligations (Form 1040-NR).
W-8BEN and treaty benefits - Properly completing the W-8BEN can reduce withholding tax on dividends and interest for residents of countries with a US tax treaty.
This is not investment advice - The Jerz Group assists with account opening and structuring. We do not provide investment advice or manage assets.
ITIN and US address must be in place before we begin - If you need either of these, contact us to discuss a combined engagement.
Need an ITIN? See our ITIN service.