Is Stripe Available in Bahrain?

If you’re a Bahraini entrepreneur looking to expand your business internationally, you may wonder if Stripe is available in Bahrain.
Unfortunately, the answer is no. Stripe is not available in Bahrain.
Stripe is only supported in 46 countries, and Bahrain is not one of them. While this may be disappointing news for Bahraini business owners, you can still open a Stripe account in Bahrain.
In this article, we’ll explore the requirements for opening a Stripe account in Bahrain and the benefits of forming a US-based limited liability company (LLC) for your business.
Key Takeaways
- Stripe is not currently available in Bahrain.
- To open a Stripe account as a Bahraini entrepreneur, you must form a US-based LLC and obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Tax ID.
- Forming a US-based LLC can provide benefits such as increased credibility, liability protection, and access to US markets.
- Use Northwest’s registered agent service for seamless setup.
Does Stripe Work in Bahrain?
If you are a Bahraini business owner looking to expand your business globally, you may wonder if Stripe is available in Bahrain.
Stripe is currently supported in 46 countries and Bahrain is one of them.

However, there are other payment solutions available in Bahrain:
- BenefitPay
- CashU
- Sadad
If you are an entrepreneur from Bahrain looking to open a Stripe account, you can easily open one by following these steps:
- Create/form an LLC in the United States (use Northwest).
- Visit the Stripe website and create an account.
- Enter your business information, including your name, address, and phone number.
- Provide your EIN (with the help of Northwest).
- Provide your tax ID and government-issued ID.
- Verify your email address and phone number.
- Add a bank account where Stripe supports processing payments (Use Wise or Mercury).
- Start accepting payments.
Stripe serves as a flexible global payment solution that facilitates businesses in accepting payments across more than 135 currencies worldwide.
Requirements To Open A Stripe Account In Bahrain For Your Business
To open a Stripe account in Bahrain, you must fulfill specific requirements.
Requirement | Where To Get It |
---|---|
US-based LLC | Register with a registered agent (Northwest) |
EIN/Tax ID | Apply through the IRS website or use a registered agent |
US business address | Use a virtual mailbox service or a registered agent |
US-based phone number | Use virtual phone number service |
US-based bank account | Open a physical bank account in the US (Use Wise or Mercury) |
1. Establish a U.S.-based LLC
The first step to open a Stripe account in Bahrain is to form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in the United States. This LLC will be the foundation for your Stripe account setup.
You will need to register with the state government of your choice. You can opt for a hands-on approach or seek assistance from registered agent services like Northwest Registered Agent, which can streamline the process.
They offer swift LLC formation and act as your registered agent for receiving legal documents.
2. Acquire an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Tax ID
Once you have established your LLC, you must obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Tax ID. This unique identifier is crucial for activating your Stripe account.
You will need to provide details such as your LLC’s name, address, and the personal information of your LLC’s responsible party.
You can expedite the process with services like Northwest Registered Agent, which can secure your EIN within 24 hours, sparing you the complexities of direct IRS dealings.
3. Secure a U.S. Business Address
A U.S. business address is essential for LLC formation and obtaining your EIN or Tax ID.
You can use registered agent services like Northwest to get a U.S. address by mail forwarding and handling legal documents. It ensures your business maintains a professional presence in the U.S.
Having a U.S. business address does not mean you must be physically present in the U.S. to use Stripe.
4. Obtain a U.S. Phone Number
Stripe requires a U.S. phone number to verify your account.
You can simplify this with virtual phone services such as Skype or Dingtone, which offer virtual U.S. numbers capable of seamlessly receiving SMS messages.
Note that the phone number used to open your Stripe account must be a valid and active US-based phone number. But it doesn’t matter how you get as long as it can receive verification texts and calls.
5. Establish a U.S. Bank Account (To Be Linked To Stripe For Payouts)
Linking a U.S. bank account to your Stripe account is crucial for receiving payments. Stripe supports payouts only to bank accounts from supported countries.
As a non-U.S. resident, consider virtual bank account services like Wise or Mercury.
Wise provides a borderless account with U.S. routing and account numbers, facilitating payments from Stripe and other U.S.-based entities.
Alternatively, Mercury offers a dedicated U.S. bank account integrated smoothly with Stripe and various payment processors, ideal for startups and entrepreneurs.
What’s the Best State to Form Your LLC as a Foreigner in Sri Lanka?
If you’re a Bahraini entrepreneur considering setting up a US-based LLC, you may wonder which state is the best to form your LLC.
Here are the best states to consider:
Delaware
Delaware is a popular choice among entrepreneurs globally, and for good reason. It boasts a robust legal system that favors business owners.
Delaware has a low franchise tax, which means savings for your business in the long haul. The state has a Court of Chancery, a specialized court that deals with business disputes.
This court is reputable for being quick and efficient, which can be a significant business advantage.
Wyoming
Wyoming is a gem for LLC formation, especially for its tax benefits. Wyoming has no state income tax, no franchise tax, and no personal income tax, making it an attractive choice financially.
On top of that, it has stringent privacy laws to safeguard your personal information.
Wyoming has a reputation for being business-friendly, with a streamlined registration process and a helpful Secretary of State’s office.
New Mexico
Known for its friendly environment towards foreigners setting up LLCs, New Mexico has a low filing fee of just $50 and no annual report fees. The state doesn’t require disclosing the names of members or managers in the filing, offering extra privacy.
New Mexico has a unique feature called the Series LLC, which allows you to create multiple LLCs under one parent LLC, providing flexibility and cost savings.
California’s high franchise tax, filing fees, and complex regulations make it less suitable for foreign entrepreneurs looking to set up an LLC. Registering as a foreign entity in California is costly and time-consuming.
Steps On How To Form Your LLC & Open A Stripe Account
Here are the steps you need to follow to form your LLC and open a Stripe account.
Step 1. Sign up For Northwest Registered Agent
The first step in forming your LLC is to sign up for a registered agent service. I recommend Northwest Registered Agent. This registered agent can help you with the entire process of forming your LLC.
To sign up for their services, go to their website at: https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com
Then click on the “LET’S GET YOU STARTED” button.

Step 2. Choose Your Business Entity and State
Choose your business entity and state once you’ve signed up for a registered agent service. This will determine the type of LLC you’ll be forming and the location.

The total amount will depend on your chosen state and the processing time. For instance, forming an LLC in Alabama costs $334, while New Mexico costs $98.
Step 3. Enter Your New/Existing Details
Enter your new or existing details after selecting your business entity and state. This includes your name, address, and other essential information.

You can choose the physical and mailing addresses you want for the business.

Northwest Registered Agents provides the convenience of using their address as your business address, eliminating the hassle of securing a separate US address for your company.
Step 4. Enter The Management For Your LLC
You’ll need to enter the management for your LLC. This includes the members or managers who will run your business.

If you’re a one-person show in your business, stick with one member and use your name.
Step 5. Fill in Your Contact Details
Next, you’ll need to fill in your contact details, including your email address, phone number, and other information.

You don’t have to scramble for a U.S. contact detail to create your Northwest account. Your local details will work just fine as your point of contact with Northwest.
Step 6. Setup Your Account with Northwest Registered Agent
After entering all your information, you must set up your account with Northwest Registered Agent using your email and preferred password. This will allow you to access their services and complete the following steps to form your LLC.

Step 7. Get Your Business Identity (Optional)
You can toggle this on to add the Northwest Business Identity option for your LLC. It includes the following, free for 90 days:
- Domain name registration – 1 Free Year
- Website – hosted by us, owned by you
- Business email address
- Business phone

Step 8. Getting Your Tax ID or EIN (Optional)
If you want your LLC’s tax ID (EIN), you can do so through Northwest Registered Agent. They will help you complete and submit the necessary forms to the IRS.
It’s pretty easy to get this on your own, but if you’d like to include it in your order, that’s also great!

Step 9. Checkout/Payment (Congratulations!)
Finally, you’ll need to check and make payment to complete the process of forming your LLC.
Congratulations! You can now open a Stripe account and start accepting payments.

Finally, Create Your Stripe Account (With Your EIN & LLC Information)
To start accepting payments through Stripe, you must create a Stripe account. The process is straightforward and can be completed in a few simple steps.
Basic Requirements for Creating A Stripe Account
Before you start creating your Stripe account, ensure you have the following basic requirements ready:
- Your business name and email address
- Your government-issued ID
- Your Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Your Limited Liability Company (LLC) information
Creating a Stripe Account in Bahrain – Step-by-Step

To create a Stripe account in Bahrain, follow these simple steps:
- Go to the Stripe registration page at https://dashboard.stripe.com/register and click the “Sign Up” button.
- Enter your email address and create a password.
- Click on “Create your Stripe account” to proceed.
- Fill in your business information, including your name, address, and phone number, and click “Continue”.
- Enter your personal information, including your name and date of birth. Click on “Continue” to proceed.
- Verify your email address by clicking on the link sent to your email.
- Provide your government-issued ID for verification purposes.
- Provide your EIN and LLC information.
- Connect your bank account to your Stripe account to receive payments.
Once you have completed these steps, you can start accepting payments through Stripe.
Please ensure the country you selected where your business is incorporated, is the United States, not Bahrain.
Why You Should Consider Northwest Registered Agent For Your LLC Formation
If you’re thinking about setting up a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in the United States, Northwest Registered Agent is a great option to consider.
Here are the reasons I prefer Northwest Registered Agent for LLC formation.
Transparent Pricing
One of the best things about Northwest Registered Agent is their transparent pricing. You won’t have to worry about any hidden fees or surprises when you choose their LLC formation packages.
Northwest offers clear, affordable pricing for their services, and you can see exactly what you’ll pay upfront. You can customize your package to suit your needs.
Free One-Year Registered Agent
When you form your LLC with Northwest Registered Agent, you get a whole year of registered agent service for free.
This means that they will handle important documents and mail on behalf of your LLC. Plus, you can renew the service at a reasonable cost after the first year.
Free Operating Agreement
Northwest Registered Agent offers a free operating agreement with your LLC formation. This legal document outlines ownership and operating procedures, protecting your personal assets and keeping your LLC running smoothly.
Tax Flexibility
Choose the tax structure that fits your business best. Whether it’s as a sole proprietorship, partnership, S corporation, or C corporation, Northwest Registered Agent has you covered.
This means that you can save money on taxes and maximize your profits.
Affordable Pricing
Starting at just $39, Northwest’s LLC formation services won’t break the bank.
It’s a budget-friendly option compared to others that charge over $1000, making it perfect for small business owners looking to save.
Free Domain, Website, Email & Business Phone
Need an online presence? Northwest Registered Agent offers a complimentary domain, website setup, email, and business phone. They’ve got your digital needs covered so you can focus on your business.
Privacy by Default
Your personal information stays private with Northwest Registered Agent. They prioritize your privacy, keeping your details off public records for added security.
What Are The Benefits Of Forming A US Limited Liability Company (LLC) For a Bahraini Stripe Account?
If you’re a business owner from Bahrain considering Stripe as your payment solution, forming a US Limited Liability Company (LLC) could be a smart move.
Here’s why:
Limited Liability Protection
Protect your personal assets, such as your home, car, and savings, by forming an LLC.
With an LLC, your business debts and legal liabilities are separate from your personal finances. If your business faces tough times or legal issues, only your LLC’s assets are at risk, not your personal belongings.
Tax Benefits
Enjoy tax advantages as an LLC. The business’s profits and losses pass through to you, the owner, and are reported on your personal tax return.
This setup often leads to lower overall taxes, especially beneficial if your LLC has multiple owners.
Ease of Formation
Forming an LLC is relatively straightforward.
You can form an LLC online or through a registered agent. The process typically involves filing articles of organization with the state, paying a fee, and creating an operating agreement.
Easier Access to Funding
LLCs often have an easier time accessing funding than other business structures. This is because LLCs are considered more credible and professional, making them more attractive to investors and lenders.
Credibility and Professionalism
Boost your business’s credibility, especially if you aim to work with US-based companies or customers.
Many US businesses prefer dealing with LLCs due to their established legal protections and professional reputation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stripe available in Bahrain?
No, Stripe is not available in Bahrain. However, businesses in Bahrain can integrate Stripe for payment processing and accept payments in various currencies by forming a U.S.-based LLC and obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN).
What currencies does Stripe support for transactions in Bahrain?
Stripe supports transactions in multiple currencies, including Bahraini Dinar, US Dollar, Euro, British Pound, and many more. Businesses can choose the currency they want to accept payments in and Stripe will automatically convert the payment to the currency of their choice.
Does Stripe Atlas support the incorporation of businesses in Bahrain?
Currently, Stripe Atlas does not support the incorporation of businesses in Bahrain. However, Bahraini businesses can create a Stripe account and start accepting payments by establishing a U.S.-based LLC and obtaining an EIN.
Are there any specific requirements for Bahrain-based businesses to use Stripe?
To use Stripe, businesses in Bahrain must have a registered business entity (U.S-based LLC), Employer Identification Number (EIN), U.S. business address, U.S. phone number, and U.S. bank account.
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