The table below compares major US stockbrokers who can buy foreign shares. If you haven’t already done so, you may want to begin by reading the US international stockbrokers guide for an overview of what’s available and then using this table to compare firms.
Further details of fees and services are listed on each stockbroker’s individual page. To find a stock broker that can trade a specific international market, use the search function in the international stockbrokers directory.
If you’re simply looking for the cheapest stockbrokers registered in the US for buying US stocks and options only, see the US online discount brokerage fees comparison table instead.
Looking for US stockbrokers to buy US-listed shares instead? Try the US online brokerage fee comparison table.[table id=4 /]
Notes on the US international stockbrokers comparison table
Some US international stockbrokers will accept non-resident retail investors, although the number of firms that do so has shrunk in recent years. Interactive Brokers, EverTrade and Charles Schwab have all confirmed that they will, although this does not apply to the relatively new Schwab Global Account. Interactive Brokers has offices in several countries and may choose to accept foreign clients through those instead of the US office.
Be aware that some US stockbrokers will claim that they ‘can buy stocks from 80 countries’ or something similar. What this means is that they can deal in ADRs or in international stocks traded over-the-counter in the US. This is not the same thing as being able to buy all or even most stocks from these countries – the range of companies available will be limited, liquidity may be poor and prices will usually be higher than you’d pay buying directly.
Firm that can only do this are not international stockbrokers in any real sense and such a service is of limited use to any investor who wants more flexibility in their international investing. Instead, look for a stockbroker that deals directly in the foreign stocks, not their US listings – either through a local presence in the country or through intermediaries that will buy and sell a comprehensive range of shares from that market.
Information in the US international stockbrokers comparison table comes from the stockbrokers’ websites, conversations with stockbroker staff members and conversations with investors who use the services. While I try to ensure it is accurate and up-to-date, I cannot guarantee that. You should always check current terms and conditions before opening an account. If you identify any errors or omissions, please email me using the contact form.