Is Stripe Available in Nepal?
If you’re a business owner in Nepal looking to expand your online presence, you may wonder if Stripe is available in your country.
Unfortunately, the answer is no.
Stripe, a popular payment processing platform, is not supported in Nepal. While it’s disappointing that Stripe isn’t available in Nepal, you can still enjoy Stripe services from the comfort of your Nepalese location.
In this article, we’ll examine Stripe’s availability in Nepal, the requirements, and how to open a Stripe account for your business in Nepal.
Key Takeaways
- Stripe is currently unavailable in Nepal.
- Business owners in Nepal can still open a Stripe account by forming a US LLC and obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN), using a registered agent.
- Forming a US LLC for a Nepalese Stripe account can offer benefits such as increased credibility and access to the US market.
- Use Northwest’s registered agent service for seamless setup.
Does Stripe Work in Nepal?
If you are a business owner in Nepal, you might wonder if Stripe, the popular online payment processing platform, is available in your country.
Unfortunately, the answer is no. Nepal is not currently on the list of supported countries for Stripe.
Stripe is currently supported in 46 countries globally, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, and many European countries. However, Nepal is not one of them.
However, if you are looking to open a Stripe account in Nepal, follow 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 is a flexible global payment solution that facilitates businesses in accepting payments across more than 135 currencies worldwide.
Requirements To Open A Stripe Account from Nepal For Your Business
To access Stripe services from Nepal, you must meet specific requirements involving establishing a robust foundation in the United States.
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 towards accessing Stripe from Nepal involves forming a U.S.-based Limited Liability Company (LLC). This entity serves as the official vehicle for your Stripe account.
You can initiate this process by registering your LLC with any state government. Whether you prefer a hands-on approach or seek professional assistance, registered agent services like Northwest Registered Agent can expedite and streamline your LLC formation.
Northwest Registered Agent provides comprehensive support, including efficient handling of legal documents.
2. Obtain An Employer Identification Number (EIN) Or Tax ID
Securing an EIN or Tax ID from the IRS is crucial for activating your Stripe account. This unique identifier is obtained by submitting an application detailing your LLC’s particulars, such as its name, address, and the responsible party’s social security number.
Using services from third-party providers like Northwest Registered Agent can expedite this process, acquiring your EIN within 24 hours. However, the service costs $200.
You cannot open a Stripe account without an EIN.
3. A U.S. Business Address
A U.S. business address is necessary for LLC formation and obtaining an EIN or Tax ID.
Registered agents, such as Northwest, offer services such as providing a U.S. business address, mail forwarding, and managing legal documents.
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
Verification of your Stripe account requires a U.S. phone number.
This requirement can be simplified using virtual phone services like Skype or Dingtone. These services can generate a virtual U.S. phone number capable of receiving SMS messages, facilitating a smooth verification process.
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. A U.S Bank Account (To Be Linked To Stripe For Payouts)
Connecting a U.S. bank account to your Stripe account is essential for receiving payouts.
Stripe supports payouts exclusively to bank accounts in supported countries. Non-U.S. residents can leverage virtual bank account services such as Wise (formerly TransferWise) or Mercury.
Wise offers a borderless account with U.S. routing and account numbers, enabling seamless transactions with Stripe and other U.S.-based entities.
Mercury provides a dedicated U.S. bank account integrated seamlessly with Stripe and various payment processors, catering specifically to startups and entrepreneurs.
What’s the Best State to Form Your LLC as a Foreigner in Nepal?
If you’re a foreign entrepreneur considering establishing a U.S.-based LLC from Nepal, several states offer favorable conditions tailored for you.
Here’s an overview of the top states to consider:
New Mexico
New Mexico is an excellent choice for foreign entrepreneurs looking to set up an LLC. It offers a cost-effective option with a minimal filing fee of just $50 and no annual report fees.
Additionally, New Mexico provides enhanced privacy protection by not mandating the disclosure of member or manager names in the initial filing.
Delaware
Delaware is a global leader in LLC formation, thanks to its robust legal framework that prioritizes business owners.
The state boasts a low franchise tax, offering potential savings over the long term and attracting businesses seeking stability and reliability.
Wyoming
Wyoming presents another attractive option for foreign entrepreneurs seeking to establish an LLC. With no state income tax, franchise tax, or personal income tax, it provides a favorable tax environment.
Additionally, Wyoming’s stringent privacy protection laws ensure the confidentiality of your personal information, further bolstering its appeal.
California may not be the best choice for foreign entrepreneurs looking to establish an LLC. The state has high taxes and complex regulations, making it difficult for new businesses to thrive.
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 Nepal – Step-by-Step
To create a Stripe account in Nepal, 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 Nepal.
Why You Should Choose Northwest Registered Agent for Your LLC Formation
If you plan to launch a Limited Liability Company (LLC) in the United States, you need a reliable partner to help you navigate the complex formation process.
Northwest Registered Agent is a top choice for many entrepreneurs, and here’s why.
Transparent Pricing
One of the standout features of Northwest Registered Agent is their transparent pricing.
You won’t have to worry about hidden fees or surprises since you can easily see and customize the exact cost of their LLC formation packages right on their website.
This level of transparency is a refreshing change from other services that may try to upsell you or hide costs until after you’ve committed.
Local Office as Your Business Address
Need a business address but don’t have a physical office or want to keep your home address private?
Northwest Registered Agent allows you to use one of their local offices as your business address. They handle your mail forwarding, so you can stay focused on your business without worrying about missing important documents.
This is a great option for those who want to maintain a professional image without the added expense of renting an office.
Free One-Year Registered Agent Service
When you form an LLC with Northwest Registered Agent, you get a free one-year registered agent service included.
This means they’ll receive all your legal documents and important mail on your behalf. After the first year, you can renew this service at an affordable rate.
Free Operating Agreement
Northwest Registered Agent also provides a free operating agreement—a critical document outlining your LLC’s ownership and operational procedures.
This is a valuable document that can help you avoid legal issues down the road.
Tax Flexibility
With Northwest Registered Agent, you can choose how your LLC is taxed—whether as a sole proprietorship, partnership, S corporation, or C corporation—tailoring it to what suits your business best.
This level of flexibility is important since different tax structures can have a significant impact on your bottom line.
Affordable Starting Point
Starting your LLC won’t break the bank with Northwest Registered Agent. For just $39, you can get everything set up, unlike other services that charge significantly more for similar offerings.
This is a great starting point for entrepreneurs who are just getting started and don’t want to spend much money upfront.
Free Domain, Website, Email & Business Phone
As a bonus, Northwest Registered Agent throws in a free domain, website, email, and business phone when you form your LLC with them.
This is perfect for small business owners starting and needing a professional online presence from day one.
Privacy by Default
Rest assured, your privacy is a priority with Northwest Registered Agent. They keep your personal information private and off public records by default. This is important since it can help protect you from identity theft and other privacy concerns.
Related Post: How to Create a Stripe Account for Non-US
What Are The Benefits Of Forming A US Limited Liability Company (LLC) For a Nepalese Stripe Account?
If you are a Nepalese entrepreneur looking to expand your business globally, forming a US Limited Liability Company (LLC) can be a wise decision.
Here are some of the benefits of forming a US LLC for your Nepalese Stripe account:
Limited Liability Protection
One of the most significant benefits of forming a US LLC is limited liability protection.
This means that the personal assets of the LLC owners are separate from the company’s assets. In case of any legal disputes or debts, the personal assets of the LLC owners are protected.
US Market Access
By forming a US LLC, you can gain access to the world’s largest economy.
The US market offers a vast customer base, and forming a US LLC can help you tap into this market. This can lead to increased revenue and growth opportunities for your business.
Credibility and Professionalism
Forming a US LLC can add credibility and professionalism to your business.
Many customers and investors prefer to do business with companies registered in the US. This can help you gain the trust of your customers and attract more investors.
Simplified Taxation
US LLCs have a simplified taxation system. They are not subject to double taxation, which means that the company’s profits are only taxed once.
Moreover, the LLC owners can choose to be taxed either as a partnership or a corporation, depending on their preference.
Ease of Formation
Forming a US LLC is relatively straightforward. The process can be completed online, and the required paperwork is minimal. Moreover, the registration fees are affordable, making it an attractive option for Nepalese entrepreneurs.
Payment Processors
Finally, forming a US LLC can help you access payment processors like Stripe, which are unavailable in Nepal.
Stripe is a popular payment processor used by businesses worldwide, and forming a US LLC can help you gain access to this platform.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Stripe available in Nepal?
No, Stripe is currently unavailable in Nepal. However, you can use Stripe for non-supported countries by establishing a U.S.-based LLC and obtaining an EIN.
What are the limitations and restrictions of using Stripe in Nepal?
As Stripe is not available in Nepal, you cannot use it to process payments directly from Nepal.
What are the countries that support Stripe services?
Stripe is supported in less than 50 countries, including the US, UK, Australia, Belgium, and Bulgaria. The full list of supported countries is on the Stripe website.
What alternatives to Stripe are available in Nepal?
PayPal, Payoneer, and Skrill are alternatives to Stripe in Nepal. However, each service has limitations and restrictions. Research and compare different payment gateway options before choosing one that best suits your needs.
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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.