How to Sell on Amazon Outside US: A Guide for Non-US Residents

The customer journey on Amazon is as diverse as the world around us. Equally diverse are its marketplaces.

Amazon's international marketplaces are a bustling phenomenon, estimated at over $127 billion in 2021. Yet that’s still only a small fraction of Amazon’s total third-party sales.

Selling on Amazon as a non-U.S. resident offers immense growth potential for international sellers. The Amazon seller registration USA process is straightforward for approved countries, enabling sellers from various regions to join the platform. Setting up an amazon account is the first step for non-US residents who want to sell internationally. For those wondering, “does Amazon FBA ship internationally?”—yes, it does! Through Amazon FBA, sellers can reach global markets with streamlined logistics, provided they are from Amazon FBA approved countries. Additionally, using FBA allows sellers to speed up the shipping time, making their products more competitive in the global marketplace.

Operating an Amazon store means the ability to attract new customers worldwide, whether in continent countries Africa like Algeria, or regions like Oceania, including Australia and the United States. Expanding into these territories allows Amazon stores to tap into diverse markets, significantly increasing a brand’s visibility and customer base.

With Amazon’s established infrastructure and wide-reaching network, sellers from outside the U.S. can easily reach customers across borders and continents. Global amazon stores and other global amazon stores enable sellers to reach customers in multiple countries and manage listings, pricing, and translations across different regions using tools like Build International Listings. This tool simplifies the translation process for product detail pages, ensuring that listings are accessible and appealing to customers in various languages.

For non-U.S. sellers interested in international shipping, Amazon provides reliable logistics solutions for shipping globally. When sellers opt for FBA, Amazon handles storage, shipping, and even customer service, making it simpler for Amazon sellers to ship internationally.

Why Sell on Amazon as a Non-US Resident

Amazon’s online sales in 2021 were nearly $470 billion, with close to 60% being the direct result of third-party sellers. Global online marketplaces may come and go, but few have the staying power quite like Amazon. If you’re a non-US resident interested in selling on Amazon, there are some basic steps you’ll need to follow to get started.

But one of the more common questions we hear from international small businesses is whether or not they can sell on Amazon’s US online marketplace. The answer is yes, Amazon does allow international sellers to sell in the US, and you can also expand your business to other countries using Amazon’s global platform.

It’s not even a complicated process to apply for an Amazon international seller account. Amazon knows that it’s an international marketplace, and makes the process of seller registration relatively simple.

What can get complicated is the paperwork that follows.

Because tax laws and regulations vary dramatically in international markets, it can seem hard to keep track. As a result, we see many potential online sellers get discouraged and actively avoid selling on Amazon.

Don’t be. We may not be able to provide specific tax advice about your country, but we can recommend some tools to help you begin selling products on Amazon.

Understanding Amazon’s Global Marketplaces

Amazon’s global marketplaces open the door for international business growth, allowing sellers to reach new customers in every corner of the world. With over 300 million active customer accounts, Amazon’s international marketplaces—spanning North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, and the Middle East—offer unparalleled opportunities to sell globally and boost international sales. Each marketplace has its own unique characteristics, from local shopping habits to regulatory requirements, so it’s essential for Amazon sellers to tailor their approach for each region.

To succeed in selling internationally on Amazon, sellers should familiarize themselves with the specific features and expectations of each international marketplace. Providing customer support in the local language, understanding cultural preferences, and adapting product listings can help sellers connect with new customers and build trust. Whether you’re looking to start selling in North America, expand into the Asia Pacific region, or tap into emerging markets in the Middle East, Amazon’s infrastructure makes it easier than ever to sell internationally and grow your business. By leveraging Amazon’s global reach and logistics, sellers can efficiently manage international sales and establish a strong presence in multiple countries.

Requirements for Selling Internationally on Amazonelling Internationally on Amazon

To open an Amazon seller account, you’ll need a valid business entity, a bank account, and tax identification information. In many cases, sellers expanding internationally may need to set up multiple Amazon accounts or country-specific accounts to comply with local regulations and optimize sales in different regions. Establishing additional regional accounts may also be necessary for selling in certain countries, as each marketplace can have unique requirements for registration, tax, and payment setup. To sell in the US and other countries, you need a Professional North America and Brazil unified account, which streamlines operations across these regions.

When it comes to payment processing, Amazon allows sellers to receive payments in different currencies depending on the marketplace. Managing currency conversion and using local currency accounts can help sellers optimize earnings and reduce costs when selling internationally. To avoid currency conversion fees, you should find the best method to get paid in the local currency of your sales, ensuring maximum profitability.

A bank account in a country supported by Amazon

Many sellers use a separate business account specifically for Amazon global selling. While Amazon does permit international sales using a local bank account in a country that's supported by Amazon, global sellers may find they can maintain more control and flexibility selling internationally by opening up a US bank account.

The process can be complex, however. You may need to create a legal business entity by incorporating it in the US, so we recommend speaking with a banking, legal, and tax specialist who can advise you on the best course of action for selling internationally.

Incorporation

Many global sellers find it much easier to sell internationally on Amazon by incorporating in the US; particularly as an LLC, even if you're the sole proprietor of your eCommerce business. To do so, you will need a separate business name and a US Employer Identification Number, and both can be easily obtained by contacting the IRS.

Depending on the type of entity you'll be incorporating, both tax benefits and drawbacks can vary from state to state. We recommend speaking with a tax adviser specializing in international incorporation to discuss your best options.

Taxes

You will need US taxpayer status if you plan on conducting more than 50 transactions a year — which you likely will. Amazon requires you to go through an online step-by-step interview to determine whether you'll need to complete a W-9 form (as a US taxpayer) or a W-8BEN (as a non-US taxpayer.)

Payment processing services

Amazon has recently centralized payment processing services through Amazon Payment Services. In addition to standard international credit cards such as American Express, Mastercard, and Visa, Amazon currently accepts multiple international payment options including KNET, Mada, MEEZA, NAPS, and Sadad, as well as digital wallets including Apple Pay, Master pass, and Visa Checkout.

Other requirements for Amazon global selling

• Customer support in the local language of your residence

• A valid phone number, including Viber and Skype

• A valid credit card that can be charged by the country you reside in

Amazon Individual and Professional Seller Accounts

Another common dilemma for non-US residents is registering either with an Individual or Professional seller account with Amazon. The type of seller account can be largely dependent on the number of transactions you plan on conducting in a year.

While both are available at a corresponding monthly subscription fee, it's important to note that the Professional seller account requires a monthly fee to maintain active status. We always like to recommend that new sellers opt for the latter service.

In our experience, the additional benefits of Professional services (including bulk listing, customizable international shipping rates, and top product placement eligibility) can be fundamental to your business as a seller, especially if you plan on conducting more than 40 transactions a month (and you should!). A Professional account also provides immediate access to advanced selling tools and features, allowing you to start selling and managing your listings without delay.

Product Selection and Pricing for International Sellers

Choosing the right products and setting competitive prices are critical steps for anyone looking to sell globally on Amazon. International sellers must research demand in different countries, taking into account local trends, customer preferences, and seasonality. It’s also important to factor in shipping costs, import duties, and value added tax (VAT) when pricing products for international markets. These additional expenses can vary widely between countries and can significantly impact your margins.

Amazon’s marketplace product guidance tools can help sellers identify high-potential products and optimize their product listings for different international markets. By using features like Build International Listings, sellers can efficiently list products in multiple countries and manage global inventory from a single dashboard. Compliance is also key—ensure your products meet all local regulations and legal requirements in each destination country to avoid costly delays or penalties. Additionally, using Amazon's Best Sellers tool can help identify popular products in various markets, allowing sellers to make informed decisions about their inventory.

When selling internationally on Amazon, regularly review your pricing strategy to stay competitive and account for fluctuations in shipping costs, taxes, and import duties. By staying informed and proactive, you can maximize your international sales and build a sustainable business across multiple countries.

Order Fulfillment for International Sellers on Amazon

Eventually, you’re going to find that merchant fulfillment as an Amazon seller can be a logistics nightmare if you’re not a US resident. Efficiently being able to fulfill orders for international customers is crucial to ensure timely delivery and a positive customer experience.

While you’re not required to use Fulfillment By Amazon services, you’ll find order processing will be much more effective with a qualified fulfillment center. Inventory storage, order fulfillment, international shipping, customer service, and returns should be the last thing on your mind when operating an international business.

Amazon FBA is one of the most cost-effective and trusted services for global sellers. Using FBA can significantly reduce shipping time, making your products eligible for Amazon Prime and improving customer satisfaction. Amazon’s global shipping network allows you to reach customers worldwide while navigating customs and import/export regulations. Amazon and its partners may also offer discounted rates for international shipping and fulfillment services, helping to reduce your overall costs. Local language customer service is included as part of your monthly fees, so Amazon will provide customer service for your international orders, including handling returns and inquiries. Keep in mind that FBA fees vary by region and are an important consideration for international sellers. In addition, Amazon FBA Export offers export-eligible inventory to international customers at no extra cost, and donating excess inventory through Amazon is also an option to consider for managing your unsold stock.

Product Approval for International Amazon Sellers

Product approval isn’t automatic and is subject to both Amazon’s internal requirements as well as the laws and regulations of your country, including popular product categories such as:

• Beauty, Health, and Personal Care

• Clothing and Apparel

• Grocery and Gourmet Food

• Jewelry and Watches

• Luggage, Shoes, Handbags, and Sunglasses

• Automotive and Powersports

• Collectibles

• Entertainment

• Industrial and Scientific

• Jewelry

• Luggage and Travel Accessories

• Major Appliances

• Sporting Goods

• Toys, Games, and Baby Products

• Watches

Note: Certain products may not be allowed to be sold in specific countries due to local regulations or restrictions.

In addition, there are intellectual property, copyright, legal, product safety, and environmental regulations which differ dramatically from country to country. The regulations of your own country may not only differ from the US but may be entirely contrary to the terms of service on Amazon’s online marketplace. When entering a new country, it is crucial to understand local requirements, including taxes, compliance, and registration, to ensure a successful market entry. Regions like North Africa may have specific compliance and registration steps for Amazon sellers, such as regional account setup and language considerations. It’s your responsibility to understand these distinctions. If you have any questions, contact a legal specialist or Amazon’s customer service for further clarification.

Disbursement and Taxes as an International Amazon Seller

Disbursement through Amazon’s Currency Convertor Services is one of the fastest ways to receive payment through Amazon — even if your account is with a supported bank. However, you do have to reside in a supported country or region and you may need to register for an additional Hyper wallet account to be eligible for payment. In addition to payment eligibility, sellers should also account for referral fees, which vary by marketplace and are an important part of the total cost of selling on Amazon.

Most US states require a sales tax for goods held in inventory storage, including Amazon fulfillment centers, even if your merchandise is being held in multiple states. Many states will only accept tax payments using Automated Clearing House (ACH) transfers from a US bank, which means you’re required to open a US bank account.

Contact a trusted tax adviser if you plan on conducting business in the US. States can be notoriously complicated when it comes to business tax issues and this is one area you simply can’t afford to overlook.

Customs And Selling Internationally On Amazon

When navigating customs and duty taxes for international sales, there are several factors that sellers must consider. Being familiar with US Customs and subsequent duty taxes is another burden we frequently hear about from international sellers.

Unfortunately, this can also vary from state to state and may require manual approval for many of the more popular items on Amazon. However, most customs brokers and freight carriers will consider this service as part of your fees. The CBP has provided a convenient Ports of Entry guide to help you choose the most appropriate one.

Import restrictions may require an additional permit from federal agencies, including the US Department of Agriculture, the US Food and Drug Administration, and the US Consumer Product Safety Commission. For a list of prohibited and restricted items, please review the US Customs and Border Protection guide.

Global Expansion Strategies for Non-US Amazon Sellers

For non-US Amazon sellers, global expansion is more accessible than ever thanks to Amazon’s international marketplaces and unified account features. To start selling internationally on Amazon, begin by registering for a seller account and ensuring you have a valid credit card. With a unified account, you can manage product listings and sales across multiple countries, including key markets in North America, Europe, and Asia Pacific.

Successful global expansion requires thorough research into each target market. Analyze local trends, customer preferences, and regulatory requirements to tailor your offerings and marketing strategies. Consider partnering with local suppliers to streamline logistics and reduce shipping times, and take advantage of Amazon’s discounted shipping rates to keep costs competitive. Providing customer support in the local language can also enhance the buying experience and help you build loyalty with international customers.

Utilizing Amazon’s fulfillment centers allows you to efficiently process international orders and maintain high service standards. By combining these strategies, non-US sellers can accelerate their global expansion, reach new customers, and grow their business internationally on Amazon.

Managing Your Amazon Business as a Non-US Resident

Given the amount of paperwork and effort you’re going to be putting in as an international seller, managing your business on Amazon can seem like just as hard of a task as selling on Amazon — if not harder. If you want to sell on Amazon and expand your business internationally, it's crucial to understand the requirements and opportunities in different Amazon marketplaces.

The last thing you need to worry about is losing potential customers. That’s why working with an account management company that knows Amazon inside and out can be invaluable. They don’t just know how to manage your account, they maximize it — based on experience, know-how, and a proven track record of providing both success and security. Choosing the right Amazon marketplace and effectively managing your listings across multiple Amazon marketplaces is essential for international growth.

Amazon can be, quite literally, a jungle for new domestic businesses in the US. But internationally, it can be just as bewildering as it is intimidating. Optimizing your product listings ensures that shoppers find your sell products more easily in each region, helping you reach more customers and comply with local requirements.

The good news?

You don’t have to go it alone.

Color More Lines knows Amazon’s US online marketplace and what it takes to make your business thrive. Find out more at Color More Lines.

Amazon Seller Support and Resources

Amazon offers a comprehensive suite of support and resources to help sellers succeed in their international business ventures. Through Seller Central, sellers can access tools to manage global inventory, track international orders, and provide customer support across different countries. Amazon’s fulfillment services, including Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA), simplify international shipping and logistics, allowing sellers to focus on growing their business.

To help sellers navigate the complexities of selling internationally on Amazon, the platform provides detailed guides and resources covering local regulations, taxes, and compliance requirements. Amazon’s customer service team is available to assist with any issues related to international orders, ensuring sellers can provide reliable support to their customers worldwide.

Additionally, Amazon’s community forums and seller groups offer a valuable space for international sellers to connect, share experiences, and learn best practices for selling internationally on Amazon. By leveraging these resources, sellers can overcome challenges, stay informed about changes in international markets, and drive sustainable growth in their global Amazon business.