Must-Read: Complete Guide to Opening a Stripe Account (Updated May 2025)
In the global cross-border e-commerce and overseas marketing landscape, having a reliable payment processing system is essential. Stripe, as a leading global payment gateway, has become the preferred choice for many merchants due to its efficiency, security, and flexibility. However, due to policy differences across countries and regions, many businesses still face challenges when opening a Stripe account.
This guide, based on the latest policies as of May 2025, provides a detailed walkthrough on how to successfully open your merchant account, covering special requirements for accounts in regions like the US, Spain, and Romania. Additionally, we’ll introduce the latest facial recognition verification process to help you complete account approval smoothly.
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1. Why Choose Stripe?
Before diving into the setup process, let’s explore why Stripe is so popular:
1. Global Coverage: Supports payments in over 45 countries and regions, including the US, UK, and EU nations. 2. High Security: Complies with PCI DSS Level 1 security standards, reducing fraud risks. 3. Flexible API: Easily integrates with your website or app, supporting customizable payment workflows. 4. Multiple Payment Methods: Accepts credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and more.
For cross-border e-commerce and overseas marketing professionals, a stable Stripe account can significantly boost transaction conversion rates and reduce payment failures.
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2. Preparing to Open a Stripe Account
Before registering, ensure you meet the following requirements to avoid rejection:
1. Business Requirements
- Company business license (if applicable)
- Bank account details (must match the company’s registered address)
- Tax registration number (e.g., EIN for the US, VAT for Europe)
2. Identity Verification
- Passport, ID card, or driver’s license (notarization may be required in some regions)
- Proof of address (e.g., utility bill, bank statement)
- Facial recognition verification is now mandatory in some countries
3. Website or Business Information
- Company website (must use HTTPS encryption)
- Clear business description (avoid high-risk industry restrictions)
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3. Step-by-Step Guide to Opening a Stripe Account (2025 Edition)
Step 1: Visit Stripe’s Website and Register Go to [Stripe’s official site](https://stripe.com/), click "Sign Up," and select either an individual or company account based on your business type.
Step 2: Enter Basic Information
- Full name, email, and phone number (an international number is recommended)
- Company registered address (affects available payment processing features)
Step 3: Select Account Type (Special Requirements by Country) Stripe accounts vary slightly by region:
1. US Account: Requires SSN or EIN and supports local ACH transfers. 2. Spanish Account: Requires a local tax ID (NIF) and may involve facial recognition verification. 3. Romanian Account: Requires an EU VAT number and a local Romanian bank account.
Step 4: Business Verification and Document Upload Upload the following as prompted:
- Business license
- Legal representative’s ID (passport or ID card)
- Proof of address (dated within the last 3 months)
Note: Starting in 2025, facial recognition verification is mandatory in some countries (e.g., Spain, Italy), and the system will guide you through the process.
Step 5: Set Up Payment Gateway and Link Bank Account
- Select supported currencies (e.g., USD, EUR)
- Add your business bank account (ensure accuracy to avoid payout issues)
Step 6: Submit for Review and Wait for Approval Approval typically takes 1-3 business days. Additional documents may be requested. Check progress via the Stripe Dashboard.
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4. FAQs and Solutions
1. Why Was My Account Rejected? Possible reasons include:
- Operating in a high-risk industry (e.g., cryptocurrency, adult content)
- Unclear or expired documents
- Failed facial recognition verification (retry required)
2. How Can Chinese Users Open a Stripe Account? Stripe doesn’t support direct registration in mainland China, but alternatives include:
- Registering a company in Hong Kong or the US first
- Using third-party services (e.g., Payoneer)
3. How to Enhance Account Security?
- Enable 2FA (two-factor authentication)
- Monitor transaction history regularly to prevent fraud
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5. Summary and Next Steps
This guide has walked you through the entire process of opening a Stripe account, including specific requirements for US, Spanish, and Romanian accounts. The 2025 update introduces facial recognition verification for enhanced security, so prepare your documents in advance.
If you encounter issues during registration or need professional overseas payment solutions, visit [Quark-Hub’s official website](https://www.quark-hub.com/) or contact our support team for tailored payment gateway optimization.
Take action now to streamline your global payments! 🚀