how easy is it to open a US bank account from a foreign land? anyone done it before? wats involved? whos cheapest in terms of fees etc

i'm based in australia and am planning to accept US$ payments and want to try and avoid conversions of currencies

Many had tried to get a bank account in the US through online mean. So far, the only guarantee way of getting an US account is fly over there and sign up for one.

My guess is it would be rather difficult to online; actually it would be difficult even if you flew over here, probably a few hoops to jump through as a foreign national.

To get a bank account, there is the YKYC (you know your customer regulation). It is very easy to satisify this regulation: you walk into the bank. You don't need a SSN either to get one unless the account is interest bearing.

Some banks overseas will have a relationship with some banks in the United States, especially Bank of America since it is a world bank. Even check with some of the smaller banks. They might be able to help satisfy this YKYC regulation.

Yes with the "patriot act" banks are required to submit everything they know about you to the government. With that being said, opening an account isn't as easy as it once was.

Basically, there is no restriction to open US bank account even you are non US resident. In fact, there are many people already have it even more than one.
Yes, every one is correct, after 9/11 it is getting harder to get it and the federal Law, PATRIOT Act, requires YKYC rule to all financial institutions. Still there is no restriction.

There are many ways to get US bank account:
1. You can apply thru brokerage firm. But you have to add a brokerage code/number before or after your bank account when you fill in to Paypal or merchant payment processing. You can withdraw up to $1000/day but you have to send all papers in physical. I also heard that right now, this firm is no longer serving Asian to get US bank account. So don't use this!
2. You can have someone or agent to represent you before the bank to open an account. You will need to have an agreement with this agent which requires you to send it physical.
3. This one I would like to recommend it to you. Use debit card. When you apply for a debit card meaning you will get also a bank account. It is very easy to apply and you can do it ONLINE even when you send your papers. You will get your account at around 2 weeks and follow the next few days with the card. You can withdraw money $1500./day and it works with Paypal. No initial deposit is need you can even activate it without sending any cents into it. For more information you can refer to this usbankaccount4nonresident dot marketingpowerpoints dot com
Goodluck

I did this a few years ago, I searched for ages looking for an account online but they all looked a bit dodgy. Trying to get me to incorporate business etc...

in the end I filled out a load of forms and brought them with me to Chase, they have international bank accounts

me to, I have been searching around also, and find this is the most convenience way to me, may be to you also.
I confirm you this is not E****or V**, or V****.
One of them has just event disappointed me. I got rejection because they no longer in services opening US account for Asian thru H*******.
It is up to you...I am just giving anyone a light.

hsbc has branches all over the world including australia...see if they can help you

Bank Of America would be fine for you. Or you can forma company in USA for a cheaper price and get EIN, then open a business US Bank account. Thats pretty easy..