Depending on your location and preferences, most of the banks that I mention are available internationally. Here is a quick suggestion of some of my favorite banks and payment processing providers. You may also want to check out our Best Credit Cards Recommendations. For Canadians, check this out.
Best Banks (Travelers)
Since it’s mostly for travelers, I mainly focus on speed, ease of use, and low fees, and you can see most results here are virtual banks.
- Charles Schwab (U.S./International): Known for its investor-friendly banking services, Charles Schwab offers a checking account with no ATM fees worldwide, making it suitable for frequent travelers and individuals with investment interests. International accounts are subject to countries and may require a min. $25,000 deposit.
- Wise (formerly Transferwise)(International): Wise provides a global money transfer platform with low fees, competitive exchange rates, and multi-currency accounts, making it popular among digital nomads and businesses with international operations. It’s also one of the fastest and cheapest international money transfer platforms out there.
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- Revolut (International): Known for its multi-currency accounts, low fees, and convenient mobile app, Revolut offers borderless banking solutions for international travelers and businesses.
- N26 (E.U.): N26 is a mobile bank that offers flexible banking features, international money transfers, and seamless integration with digital wallets, catering to the needs of frequent travelers and digital nomads.
Best Banks (Expats / PR)
For this, we’re looking for something more secure since this focuses on longer-term usage. That’s why traditional banks are more beneficial here.
- Charles Schwab (U.S./International): Still highly recommended as it also can be treated as a broker for your investment, as well as a great offshore bank option if you’re not American.
- Citibank (U.S./International): Citibank has a global network and provides various banking services designed for international travelers, expats, and businesses operating across borders. Most importantly, great credit card options.
- HSBC (U.K./Asia): With its international presence and extensive range of services, HSBC is often chosen by expats and entrepreneurs for its global banking capabilities and support. Competitive credit card options as well if you’re based in Asia.
- Barclays (U.K./International): Great offshore bank option as well if you’re not British.
- Local Banks: Ultimately, you may still need a local bank to live in that particular country for tax and other related expenses.
Best Banks (Business)
Here, I’m assuming you have a US LLC, so I’m just going to list a bunch of great options depending on the stage and size of your business.
- Wise: Needless to say, just the easiest, simple, and most convenient out there.
- Mercury: Mercury is a modern online banking platform for startups and small businesses. It offers digital banking services, integrations with financial tools, collaboration features, and expense tracking. No monthly fees.
- Chase Bank: Chase offers a range of business banking solutions, including business checking and savings accounts, business credit cards, and merchant services. They also provide online and mobile banking platforms for easy account management.