Is Stripe Available in Colombia?

If you’re a business owner in Colombia looking to expand your online payment options, you may wonder if Stripe is available in your country.
The answer is no; Stripe is not currently available in Colombia.
While it may be disappointing to learn that Stripe is not available in Colombia, you can use Stripe in Colombia through a simple and legal process.
In this article, we’ll explore whether Stripe is available in Colombia, the requirements for opening a Stripe account in Colombia, and the benefits of forming a US Limited Liability Company (LLC) for a Colombia Stripe account.
Key Takeaways
- Stripe is not available in Colombia.
- There are ways to work around the limitations of using Stripe in Colombia, such as forming a US LLC and obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN), using a registered agent.
- Use Northwest’s registered agent service for seamless setup.
Does Stripe Work in Colombia?
Unfortunately, Stripe is not currently available in Colombia. While Stripe is supported in 46 countries globally, but Colombia isn’t one of them.
Stripe is available in several South American countries, including Brazil. It is also available in Japan, Canada, the United Kingdom, the United States, and some Caribbean countries. However, Colombia is not yet on the list of supported countries.

However, if you are an entrepreneur from Colombia 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 Colombia For Your Business
You must fulfill certain requirements to set up a Stripe account in Colombia.
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. A Business Formation In The U.S (LLC)
The first step is to create a U.S.-based Limited Liability Company (LLC) to set up a Stripe account in Colombia. This LLC will serve as the official entity for your Stripe account.
Forming an LLC involves registering it with the state government of your choice. You can handle this process directly or hire a registered agent.
Registered agent services such as Northwest Registered Agent can assist you in setting up your LLC efficiently. They offer a fast and easy way to form your LLC and provide a registered agent service to receive legal documents.
2. Obtaining An Employer Identification Number (EIN) Or Tax ID
Next, you’ll need an Employer Identification Number (EIN) or Tax ID.
To obtain one, you need to fill out an application with the IRS, which can be done online, by mail, by fax, or through a registered agent.
You’ll need to provide information such as your LLC’s name, address, and the name and social security number of your LLC’s responsible party.
If you use a third-party service like Northwest Registered Agent, you can get an EIN swiftly, typically within 24 hours. This option offers a convenient and expedited way to obtain your EIN without the hassle of dealing directly with the IRS.
3. A U.S. Business Address
A U.S. business address is necessary for forming an LLC and obtaining an EIN or Tax ID.
Use a registered agent service to provide a U.S. address for your LLC. NorthWest provides a U.S. business address, mail forwarding, and legal document handling services.
Having a U.S. business address does not mean you must be physically present in the U.S. to use Stripe.
4. A U.S. Phone Number
To verify your Stripe account, you’ll need a U.S. phone number.
You can use a virtual phone service like Skype and Dingtone to get a U.S. phone number. These platforms allow you to create a virtual U.S. phone number to receive SMS messages, making the verification process seamless.
Note that the phone number used to open your Stripe account must be a valid and active US-based phone number.
5. A U.S. Bank Account (To Be Linked to Stripe for Payouts)
Linking a U.S. bank account to your Stripe account for payouts is essential. Stripe only supports payouts to bank accounts from supported countries. As a non-U.S. resident, use a virtual bank account service to get a U.S. bank account.
Two popular options are Wise (formerly TransferWise) and Mercury.
Wise offers a borderless account providing U.S. routing and account numbers, allowing you to receive payments from Stripe and other U.S.-based companies.
Mercury offers a dedicated U.S. bank account that integrates smoothly with Stripe and various payment processors, making it a great option for startups and entrepreneurs.
What’s the Best State to Form Your LLC as a Foreigner in Colombia?
If you are a Colombian entrepreneur looking to form a US-based LLC, there are several states you can choose from.
Here are the best states for you to form your LLC as a foreigner in Colombia:
Delaware
Delaware is a popular state for entrepreneurs to form an LLC, and for good reason.
Delaware has a well-established legal system that is favorable to business owners. It has a low franchise tax, saving you money in the long run.
New Mexico
New Mexico is one of the best states for foreigners to form an LLC. It has a low filing fee of $50 with no annual report fees.
Additionally, New Mexico does not require the name of the member or manager to be included in the filing of the certificate of formation, which can provide greater privacy protection.
Wyoming
Wyoming is another great state for foreigners to form an LLC. It has no state income tax, franchise tax, or personal income tax.
Additionally, Wyoming has strong privacy protection laws that can help keep your personal information confidential.
California is not a recommended state for foreign entrepreneurs forming an LLC due to high taxes, complex regulations, and a legal system that is not always favorable to business owners.
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 it’s also great if you include it in your order!

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 Colombia – Step-by-Step

To create a Stripe account in Colombia, 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 Colombia.
Why You Should Choose Northwest Registered Agent For Your LLC Formation
If you’re planning to set up a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in the United States, you’ll want to consider Northwest Registered Agent.
Here are some reasons Northwest is a great pick for setting up an LLC in the U.S.
Transparent Pricing
Northwest offers affordable pricing for its LLC formation packages, with no hidden fees or upsells. You can see the exact price for each package on its website and customize your package to fit your specific needs.
Free One-Year Registered Agent Service
When you form an LLC with Northwest, you get a free year of registered agent service. This means they’ll handle legal documents and important mail for your LLC.
After the first year, you can renew the service for a reasonable fee.
Free Operating Agreement
Northwest provides a free operating agreement when you form an LLC with them.
This essential document outlines the ownership and operating procedures of your LLC, protecting your personal assets and ensuring smooth operations.
Tax Flexibility
With Northwest, you get tax flexibility for your LLC. You can choose to have your LLC taxed as a sole proprietorship, partnership, S corporation, or C corporation. This allows you to pick the tax structure that suits your business.
Affordable Pricing
Northwest offers several different LLC formation packages to suit your needs and budget. You can get started for just $39, a bargain compared to other registered agents that charge over $1000.
Free Domain, Website, Email & Business Phone
Starting a small business and need an online presence? Northwest has you covered with a free domain, website, email, and business phone when you form an LLC with them.
Privacy by Default
Worried about privacy? Northwest keeps your personal information private and off public records, offering peace of mind from day one.
What Are The Benefits Of Forming A US Limited Liability Company (LLC) For a Colombian Stripe Account?
Here are some of the benefits of forming a US LLC for a Colombian Stripe account:
Limited Liability Protection
One of the most significant benefits of forming an LLC is that it provides limited liability protection. This means that the personal assets of the LLC’s owners, also known as members, are protected from business debts and lawsuits.
In other words, if your business runs into financial trouble or faces legal action, your personal assets such as your car, home, and bank accounts are safe.
Tax Flexibility
Another significant benefit of forming an LLC is tax flexibility. By default, an LLC is considered a pass-through entity, which means that the business’s profits and losses pass through to the members’ personal tax returns.
This can be advantageous, as it allows the members to avoid paying double taxation, which is common in corporations.
LLCs can elect to be taxed as a corporation, beneficial for some businesses. For example, if your business has a high income, you may benefit from being taxed as a corporation, as the corporate tax rate is often lower than the individual tax rate.
Credibility
Forming an LLC can also help establish credibility for your business. It shows that you have taken the necessary steps to protect your personal assets and are committed to running a legitimate business.
This can be particularly important if you are looking to attract investors or partners.
Easier Access to Funding
Forming an LLC can make it easier to access funding. Banks and other financial institutions are often more willing to lend to LLCs than sole proprietorships or partnerships.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stripe available in Colombia?
As of this writing, Stripe is not available in Colombia. However, Stripe is constantly expanding its reach and may become available in Colombia.
Which countries are currently supported by Stripe?
Stripe is currently available in over 46 countries worldwide, including the United States, Canada, Australia, many European countries, and some in Asia and Africa. The Stripe website provides a full list of supported countries.
Are there any South American countries where Stripe operates?
Yes, Stripe currently operates in Brazil, the sole country in South America where it is supported.
What payment methods can be processed through Stripe in Latin America?
Stripe supports a variety of payment methods in Latin America. The payment methods include credit and debit cards, bank transfers, and digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay. The specific payment methods available may vary depending on the country.
Can businesses in Colombia integrate Stripe as their payment gateway?
While Stripe is not available in Colombia, businesses in other countries can integrate Stripe as their payment gateway. Integrating Stripe allows businesses to accept a variety of payment methods and provides a secure and reliable payment processing solution.
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Disclosure: We may earn commissions if you buy via links on our website. Commissions don’t affect our opinions or evaluations. We’re also an independent affiliate of many platforms, including ClickFunnels, Kartra, GoHighLevel, Podia, Northwest Registered Agent, and others. We’re not employees of these services. We receive referral payments from them, and the opinions expressed here are our own and are not official statements of these companies.