Shopify is the world's leading e-commerce platform, but Stripe — its primary payment processor — requires a US entity and Tax ID. Bangladeshi Shopify store owners who want to accept US card payments directly need an ITIN and a US LLC. This guide explains exactly how to set up your Shopify store for success from Bangladesh.
Why Bangladeshi Shopify Stores Need an ITIN
Shopify itself doesn't require an ITIN, but Stripe does. Stripe is Shopify's native payment processor for accepting credit card payments from US customers. To create a Stripe account, you need a US LLC and a Tax ID (EIN for the LLC, ITIN for the owner).
Without Stripe, you're limited to payment gateways like PayPal, Payoneer, or 2Checkout — all of which have limitations in Bangladesh. Getting your ITIN and forming a US LLC unlocks Stripe, which processes 90% of US e-commerce transactions.
The Bangladeshi Shopify Entrepreneur Setup
Here's the recommended infrastructure for a Bangladeshi Shopify entrepreneur:
- ITIN — $99 from ITIN Plus (your personal US Tax ID)
- US LLC — Delaware or Wyoming (~$100–$200/year)
- EIN — Free from IRS (for the LLC)
- US Bank Account — Mercury Bank (free, remote opening)
- Stripe Account — linked to your LLC + US bank
- Shopify Store — connected to Stripe for payments
This entire setup can be done remotely from Bangladesh. ITIN Plus handles the ITIN and can guide you through each step.
US Tax Obligations for Your Shopify LLC
Once you have a US LLC with Stripe and a bank account, you have annual US tax obligations. As a single-member LLC owned by a Bangladeshi national, your LLC is a 'disregarded entity' for US tax purposes — meaning you file Form 5472 annually (informational return for foreign-owned LLCs) and pay no US income tax on foreign-derived income.
Your ITIN ties your personal identity to the LLC's tax filings. Without it, you cannot correctly complete the owner information on US tax forms.
Why ITIN Plus for Bangladeshi Entrepreneurs
ITIN Plus is an IRS Certified Acceptance Agent (CAA) — the highest level of IRS authorization for ITIN applications. We serve Bangladeshi clients daily, understand your documentation (NID, passport, address proof), and submit your application directly to the IRS. Processing: 8–14 weeks. Cost: $99. Contact: apply@itinplus.com or +1 (305) 216-6992.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Stripe in Bangladesh without a US LLC?
No. Stripe requires a US-based business entity (US LLC) with a US bank account and US Tax ID (EIN). You cannot open a Stripe account as a Bangladeshi individual without a US LLC.
What is the difference between ITIN and EIN?
An ITIN is for individuals — it's your personal US Tax ID. An EIN is for business entities like your US LLC. To run a Shopify store through a US LLC from Bangladesh, you need both: an ITIN for yourself and an EIN for the LLC.
How long does the ITIN process take?
8–14 weeks from the IRS submission date. ITIN Plus submits your application promptly after document verification.
Do I need to travel to the US?
No. ITIN Plus is an IRS Certified Acceptance Agent. We verify your documents remotely and submit directly to the IRS. You stay in Bangladesh.
What is the total cost to set up a Shopify store from Bangladesh?
Approximate costs: ITIN $99 (ITIN Plus) + US LLC formation $100–200 + Shopify plan from $29/month + Mercury bank (free) + Stripe (2.9% + $0.30 per transaction). The biggest upfront cost is the ITIN and LLC formation.