How to Open an Account and Buy US Stocks Without a Hong Kong Bank Card? Latest Compliant Methods in 2026

Image Source: pexels

You can smoothly open an account and buy US stocks without a Hong Kong bank card. In 2026, compliant account opening methods have become more diverse, such as online account opening, Hong Kong Stock Connect, overseas bank cards, and international brokers. These methods are simple to operate and compliant, meeting the actual needs of different investors. You can complete identity verification directly through online platforms or international brokerage firms, achieve efficient account opening, and enjoy investment opportunities in global markets.

Core Key Points

• In 2026, Chinese-speaking users can open accounts and buy US stocks through various compliant methods without needing a Hong Kong bank card.
• Choosing mainland brokers offers Chinese-language service and convenient fund transfers, but product selection is limited.
• Online brokers provide fully online account opening, simple operations, and support for multi-currency funding.
• Hong Kong Stock Connect and third-party witnessed account opening suit different needs, ensuring fund safety and compliance.
• Prepare valid materials when opening an account, pay attention to platform compliance, protect fund security, and avoid legal risks.

Main Compliant Methods to Open an Account and Buy US Stocks

Image Source: pexels

In 2026, Chinese-speaking users can open accounts and buy US stocks through multiple compliant methods. You don’t need a Hong Kong bank card to successfully enter the US market. The following details six mainstream methods and compares their pros and cons to help you choose the path that best suits you.

Opening an Account and Buying US Stocks via Mainland Brokers

You can choose US stock trading channels provided by licensed brokers in mainland China. Some brokers partner with international brokerage firms, allowing you to open an account and buy US stocks directly through local identity verification. The process typically involves submitting identity documents online, completing a risk assessment, and transferring funds.

• Advantages:
  • You can use Chinese-language services with barrier-free communication.
  • Fund transfers are convenient, supporting local bank transfers.
  • Strong compliance under Chinese regulation.
• Disadvantages:
  • Limited product selection; some US stock types cannot be traded.
  • Fee structures are relatively complex, with some brokers charging higher service fees.
  • Recently, some international brokers (such as Interactive Brokers) have tightened account opening policies, requiring proof of overseas residence or work, and apps have been removed from Chinese app stores.

Opening an Account and Buying US Stocks via Online Brokers

Online brokers such as iFAST, Futu, Xueying, Biyapay, etc., provide convenient account opening and US stock trading services for Chinese users. You can complete the account opening process via mobile app or website without a Hong Kong bank card. Some platforms support funding with international bank cards like Wise, N26, etc.

• Advantages:
  • Fully online account opening process, simple to operate.
  • Funds support multiple currencies with flexible remittance.
  • Rich variety of tradable products covering major US stock markets.
  • Emerging platforms like Biyapay provide dedicated services for Chinese-speaking users, improving fund circulation efficiency.
• Disadvantages:
  • Strict identity verification required; some platforms need video witnessing.
  • Fund security depends on platform compliance; it is recommended to choose licensed brokers.
  • Pay attention to platform service fees and exchange rate differences; some platforms charge USD 2-5 per deposit/withdrawal transaction.

Hong Kong Stock Connect Channel

You can indirectly participate in the US stock market through the Hong Kong Stock Connect channel. Some Hong Kong licensed banks and brokers provide Hong Kong Stock Connect accounts, supporting cross-border investment.

• Advantages:
  • Fund safety is guaranteed under Hong Kong financial regulation.
  • Mature account system supporting multi-currency settlement.
  • Suitable for users with some investment experience.
• Disadvantages:
  • Requires opening a Hong Kong stock account; the process is relatively complex.
  • Fund transfer cycles are longer, usually 2-3 business days.
  • Trading US stocks requires Hong Kong Stock Connect products; some varieties are restricted.

Third-Party Witnessed Account Opening

Some international brokers support third-party witnessed account opening. You can complete identity verification at designated witnessing institutions (such as law firms or accounting firms), then submit the account opening application remotely.

• Advantages:
  • No need to travel abroad, saving time and costs.
  • Suitable for users unable to provide overseas residence proof.
  • Strong compliance with transparent process.
• Disadvantages:
  • Witnessing service fees usually USD 50-100 per session.
  • Limited coverage of witnessing institutions; advance booking required.
  • Longer account opening cycle, usually 1-2 weeks.

Opening an Overseas Bank Account

You can choose to open an overseas bank account in places like Singapore or Hong Kong, then use that account for US stock investment. Some banks support remote account opening, while others require in-person visits.

• Advantages:
  • Global fund circulation, convenient for asset allocation.
  • Rich account functions supporting multi-currency wealth management.
  • High fund security under international regulation.
• Disadvantages:
  • High account opening threshold; some banks require higher deposits (e.g., starting from USD 10,000).
  • Need to prepare detailed materials such as passport, address proof, and income source explanation.
  • Remote account opening has strict approval and longer cycles.

Opening an Account with International Brokerage Firms

International brokerage firms such as Interactive Brokers, Charles Schwab, etc., allow you to directly open an account and buy US stocks. You need to submit a passport, tax information (such as the W-8BEN form), and complete identity verification. Some companies require proof of overseas residence or work.

• Advantages:
  • Most complete range of tradable products, supporting US stocks, Hong Kong stocks, ETFs, etc.
  • Transparent fees; some platforms offer trading commissions as low as USD 0.5 per trade.
  • Accounts regulated in the US with guaranteed fund safety.
• Disadvantages:
  • More complex account opening process requiring English materials.
  • Must comply with US FATCA regulations; tax status must be truthfully declared.
  • Recently some platforms have tightened account opening policies for Chinese users; stay updated on the latest requirements.

Tip: When choosing a method to open an account and buy US stocks, combine your fund size, investment needs, and compliance requirements, prioritizing fund safety and platform compliance. Without a Hong Kong bank card, various new pathways in 2026 (such as Biyapay, iFAST, Wise, N26, Singapore bank accounts) have provided more flexible options for Chinese-speaking users.

Mainland Broker Account Opening Process

Operation Steps

You can complete account opening and buy US stocks through the online platforms of mainland Chinese brokers. First, visit the broker’s official website or download the official app. On the platform, select the US stock account type and fill in personal information. The system will require you to upload identity documents and complete a risk assessment. You need to link a mainland Chinese bank account for fund transfers. Some brokers may require proof of overseas residence or work. After submitting materials, the broker will conduct review. Once approved, you can activate the account and start trading US stocks.

Required Materials

During the account opening process, you need to prepare the following documents. Please refer to the table below:

Some brokers may require additional tax information or completion of the W-8BEN form. You need to ensure all materials are authentic and valid to avoid review delays due to incomplete documents.

Pros and Cons

When choosing mainland Chinese brokers to open an account and buy US stocks, you can enjoy Chinese-language services and convenient fund transfers. Accounts are regulated in China with relatively high fund security. You can complete account opening without a Hong Kong bank card. You will find that some brokers have limited product coverage and certain US stock varieties cannot be traded. The account opening process has strict material requirements, especially proof of overseas residence or work. Some brokers charge higher service fees, usually priced in USD. You need to monitor the latest policy changes and prepare relevant materials promptly.

Online Broker Account Opening Process

Platform Introduction

You can choose from multiple online brokers to open an account and buy US stocks. Platforms such as Biyapay, iFAST, Futu, Xueying, Wise, N26, etc., provide diverse services for Chinese-speaking users. Biyapay focuses on improving fund circulation efficiency, supporting multi-currency funding and flexible deposits/withdrawals. iFAST and Futu offer rich US stock products with user-friendly interfaces, suitable for beginners and experienced investors. Xueying Securities emphasizes trading experience and supports various investment tools. Wise and N26 provide international bank card solutions, facilitating cross-border fund transfers and account management.

Process Steps

You can complete the online broker account opening process through the following steps:

1. Visit the broker’s official website or download the official app and select account opening to buy US stocks.
2. Fill in basic personal information, including name, contact details, and tax information.
3. Upload identity documents; some platforms require real-time selfies or video witnessing.
4. Complete risk assessment and confirm investment preferences.
5. Link an international bank card (such as Wise, N26) or select a platform-supported funding method.
6. Wait for platform review; once approved, activate the account to start trading.

Materials and Verification

During the account opening process, you need to prepare the following materials and equipment:

• Valid government-issued ID, such as passport or driver’s license
• Tax information (such as Social Security Number or W-8BEN form)
• Smartphone with camera for taking selfies or participating in video witnessing
• Stable internet connection
• Well-lit environment with dark background for clear ID photos

Some platforms may require additional address proof or income source explanation. You need to ensure all materials are authentic and valid to avoid review delays due to material issues.

Pros and Cons

When choosing online brokers to open an account and buy US stocks, you can refer to the following comparison:

You can select the appropriate platform based on your needs. Online brokers provide convenient account opening experiences and rich investment options, but you need to pay attention to platform compliance and fund safety and plan your investment path reasonably.

Hong Kong Stock Connect and Third-Party Witnessed Account Opening Process

Hong Kong Stock Connect Account Opening Process

You can apply for a Hong Kong Stock Connect account through major mainland Chinese banks or brokers. First, submit the account opening application online and fill in basic personal information. The system will require you to upload identity proof and address proof. Some banks arrange video witnessing to verify identity. Once approved, you will receive a Hong Kong Stock Connect account. You can invest in Hong Kong Stock Connect products through this account; some platforms support indirect investment in US stock ETFs. Fund transfers are usually completed through mainland Chinese bank accounts, with settlement mainly in USD.

Third-Party Witnessed Account Opening Process

You can choose third-party witnessed account opening services provided by international brokers. You need to book a witnessing institution such as a law firm or accounting firm. During the witnessing process, staff will verify your passport, address proof, and tax information. After witnessing is complete, you need to scan and upload all materials to the broker’s platform. The broker will conduct compliance review; once approved, the account is activated. The entire process does not require traveling abroad, suitable for users unable to provide overseas residence proof.

Materials and Notes

When opening an account, you need to prepare the following materials:

• Valid passport
• Address proof for the last three months (such as utility bills or bank statements)
• Tax information (such as W-8BEN form)
• Witnessing service receipt (if applicable)

You need to ensure all materials are authentic and valid. Some platforms have strict address proof requirements; prepare in advance. Witnessing services usually charge USD 50-100, paid by yourself. You should monitor the platform’s latest policies to avoid review delays due to mismatched materials.

Pros and Cons

You can choose the appropriate method based on your material preparation and investment needs. It is recommended to prioritize fund safety and compliance and plan the account opening path reasonably.

Overseas Bank Account and International Brokerage Firm Account Opening

Image Source: pexels

Singapore Bank Account Opening Process

You can open an account remotely or in person at Singapore banks. First, visit the bank’s official website and select a personal account application. You need to fill in basic information including name, nationality, and contact details. The bank will require you to upload passport, address proof, and income source explanation. Some banks support video witnessing to verify identity authenticity. Once approved, you will receive a Singapore bank account. The account supports multi-currency wealth management and global fund circulation, suitable for Chinese-speaking users for asset allocation. Fund transfers are usually settled in USD, convenient for investing in US stocks. Some banks require initial deposits, generally above USD 10,000.

International Brokerage Firm Account Opening Process

You can choose international brokerage firms such as Biyapay, Interactive Brokers, Charles Schwab, etc., to open US stock accounts. The process is as follows:

• Visit the brokerage firm’s official website and select the account opening type.
• Fill in personal information including passport number and tax information.
• Upload identity documents; some platforms require real-time selfies or video witnessing.
• Non-US taxpayers can open non-US resident accounts, without needing a Social Security Number (SSN).
• Confirm the selected services are available in your country of residence and prepare tax documents such as the W-8BEN form.
• Wait for platform review; once approved, activate the account.

Biyapay provides multi-currency funding, flexible deposits/withdrawals, and dedicated services for Chinese-speaking users, improving fund circulation efficiency. You can fund through international bank cards or overseas bank accounts to trade US stocks, ETFs, and other products.

Materials and Compliance

During the account opening process, you need to prepare the following materials:

• Valid passport
• Address proof (such as bank statements, utility bills)
• Income source explanation
• Tax documents (such as W-8BEN form)

You need to understand tax implications. When opening an overseas bank account, pay attention to tax obligations in the US and the account-holding country. Many people with overseas assets must file a Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts Report (FBAR), detailing overseas assets. Some overseas assets are still taxable in the US; staying informed about legal and tax obligations is crucial.

Pros and Cons

You can choose the optimal method based on fund size, investment needs, and material preparation. It is recommended to prioritize fund safety and compliance and plan your US stock investment path reasonably.

Common Questions and Notes for Opening an Account and Buying US Stocks

Compliance Risks

When opening an account and buying US stocks, you must pay attention to compliance risks. The US securities market has strict requirements for identity verification and fund sources. You need to ensure all materials are authentic and valid to avoid account freezing due to false information. Some international brokerage firms require submission of overseas residence proof or tax documents. You should regularly monitor platform policy changes and supplement required materials promptly. Compliant operations not only protect account safety but also avoid future legal disputes.

Fund Safety

Fund safety is one of your top concerns. You should choose licensed brokers or banks regulated by the US or Hong Kong financial authorities. Platforms need robust fund segregation mechanisms to ensure client funds are separated from company operating funds. You can achieve global fund circulation through multi-currency accounts. It is recommended to regularly check account balances and monitor deposit/withdrawal records. Some platforms charge deposit/withdrawal service fees, usually USD 2-5 per transaction. You need to understand fund transfer cycles and plan investment schedules reasonably.

Identity Verification

Identity verification is a core part of the account opening process. You need to prepare a valid passport, address proof, and tax information. Some platforms require real-time selfies or video witnessing to ensure identity authenticity. When opening an account, you need to submit the IRS W-8BEN form to declare non-US resident status. The platform will review based on your materials, with review cycles generally 1-2 weeks. You need to ensure all documents are clear and authentic to avoid review delays due to mismatched materials.

Tax Reporting

Tax reporting is an important part of US stock investment. As a non-US resident, when receiving certain US-sourced income (such as dividends), you need to pay US withholding tax. Banks do not provide tax treaty benefits application services; all US-sourced income will not enjoy tax treaty preferences. You need to understand US tax policies and plan investment returns reasonably. It is recommended to retain all transaction records for subsequent tax reporting and compliance verification.

Other Questions

You may also encounter the following common questions:

• How to choose a compliant platform? It is recommended to prioritize licensed institutions regulated by the US or Hong Kong financial authorities.
• How long is the deposit/withdrawal cycle? Generally 1-3 business days, subject to the platform’s announcement.
• Is a US Social Security Number (SSN) required? Non-US residents do not need to provide an SSN; tax declaration can be completed via the W-8BEN form.
• How to handle account freezing? Contact platform customer service promptly, supplement materials, and cooperate with investigations.

Tip: During the process of opening an account and buying US stocks, pay attention to compliance risks, fund safety, identity verification, and tax reporting. Plan material preparation reasonably, choose compliant platforms, protect fund safety, and avoid legal risks.

You can compliantly open an account and buy US stocks without a Hong Kong bank card through mainland Chinese brokers, online brokers, Hong Kong Stock Connect, third-party witnessing, overseas bank accounts, and international brokerage firms. You should select the optimal method based on your fund size and investment needs. Prepare materials in advance, pay attention to platform compliance and fund safety. You can take advantage of new policies in 2026 and plan your global investment path reasonably.

FAQ

How to choose a compliant US stock account opening platform?

You can prioritize licensed institutions regulated by the US or Hong Kong financial authorities. You should verify the platform’s qualifications, fund segregation mechanisms, and customer service quality. You can refer to the platform’s historical operation data and user reviews to ensure fund safety and trading compliance.

What main materials need to be prepared during account opening?

You need to prepare a valid passport, address proof, tax documents (such as W-8BEN form), and income source explanation. You should ensure all materials are authentic and clear. Some platforms may require video witnessing or real-time ID photography.

How long is the typical deposit/withdrawal cycle for a US stock account?

You usually encounter a fund transfer cycle of 1 to 3 business days. You can fund and withdraw through international bank cards or Hong Kong licensed bank accounts. You need to monitor platform announcements to stay informed about deposit/withdrawal service fees (such as USD 2-5 per transaction).

Do non-US residents need to provide a Social Security Number (SSN)?

As a non-US resident, you do not need to provide a Social Security Number. You can complete tax identity verification by submitting the W-8BEN form. You need to truthfully declare tax information to ensure compliant operations.

How to ensure the safety of funds in a US stock account?

You can choose licensed brokers or banks regulated by the US or Hong Kong financial authorities. You should regularly check account balances and transaction records. You need to pay attention to the platform’s fund segregation mechanisms to ensure client funds are separated from company operating funds.