Opening Stripe, Wise and Mercury as a Southeast Asia Founder (2026 Guide)

Unlocking Global Digital Payments

For founders in Southeast Asia (SEA), getting paid in USD or EUR can be a challenge. Local versions of Stripe or PayPal often have limited features, and local banks can be slow and expensive for international transfers.

1. Stripe UK Setup

A UK Ltd opens full Stripe UK access. This includes advanced features like subscription models, multi-currency payouts, and easy integration with major e-commerce platforms.

2. Wise Business Business

Wise is the go-to for many SEA founders. A UK Ltd allows you to open a Wise Business account with a local UK sort code and account number, facilitating easy GBP, USD, and EUR collections.

3. Mercury for US Integration

If you're targeting the US market, a UK Ltd can be used to open a Mercury account. This provides a US bank account for seamless integration with US-based platforms and clients.

4. Summary

Combining a UK Ltd with Stripe, Wise, and Mercury provides a powerful, global digital payment stack for any SEA founder.

[!NOTE] Ensure your UK Ltd is properly registered and your identity is verified through an ACSP to smooth the account opening process.