Yes, but Bank of America requires an ITIN or passport and proof of U.S. address

Bank of America will open a checking or savings account for a non-U.S. citizen, but you need to meet specific requirements. You must have either a U.S. tax ID number (called an ITIN, or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) or a valid passport, plus proof that you have a physical address in the United States. You cannot open an account using only a foreign address or a foreign ID.

The rules differ slightly depending on whether you are a temporary resident (like a student or work visa holder), a permanent resident, or someone in the U.S. without immigration status. Bank of America's compliance team verifies your identity against federal databases, so the documents you bring must match what the bank can confirm.

Key Takeaways

  • You need either a U.S. ITIN, a valid passport, or both, plus a U.S. street address to open an account.
  • Bank of America accepts accounts from visa holders, permanent residents, and people with ITINs, but not from people with only foreign addresses.
  • Bring original documents to a branch in person; you cannot open an account online as a foreigner without a U.S. address already on file.
  • If you do not yet have an ITIN, you can apply through the IRS before opening the account, or ask the branch whether they will accept your passport alone.

What documents you need to bring to the branch

Bank of America requires two forms of identification. One must be a government-issued photo ID—your passport works for this. The second can be a state driver's license, a state ID card, or a foreign national ID card. If you have neither, bring a second document that shows your name and address, such as a utility bill, lease agreement, or mail from a government agency.

You also need proof of your U.S. address. A utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government mail dated within the last 60 days will work. If you are staying with someone else, a notarized letter from that person stating you live there, plus a utility bill in their name, may be accepted—but call your local branch first to confirm, because policies vary by location.

If you have an ITIN, bring the letter from the IRS that shows your number. If you do not have one yet, bring your passport and ask whether the branch will open the account using your passport number instead. Some branches will; others will ask you to obtain an ITIN first.

How to get an ITIN if you do not have one

An ITIN is a nine-digit number the IRS issues to people who need to file taxes but do not have a Social Security number. You apply by filing Form W-7 with the IRS, either by mail or in person at an IRS office. The process takes four to six weeks by mail, or sometimes faster if you apply in person at an IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center.

You do not need an ITIN to open a bank account—Bank of America will accept a passport alone—but having one makes the process smoother and is required if you plan to earn income in the U.S. or file taxes. If you are a student or work visa holder, your employer or school may help you apply for an ITIN.

Visa status and permanent resident accounts

Bank of America does not ask about your immigration status when you open an account. The bank verifies your identity and address; it does not run immigration checks. This means visa holders (F-1 students, H-1B workers, tourists, and others), permanent residents, and people without legal status can all open accounts using the same process.

If you are on a visa, bring your passport and your visa stamp or I-94 arrival record as proof of your current status. If you are a permanent resident, bring your green card. Neither is required to open the account, but both help the bank verify your identity faster.

Opening an account in person at a branch

You must visit a Bank of America branch in person to open an account as a foreigner. The bank does not allow online account opening for non-citizens without a U.S. address already verified in its system. Bring all your documents, your passport, proof of address, and your ITIN letter (if you have one). The process takes 15 to 30 minutes.

The branch will ask you to sign signature cards and choose your account type. Bank of America offers basic checking accounts, savings accounts, and money market accounts. Ask about any minimum balance requirements or monthly fees—these vary by account type and change over time. The branch can also explain options for depositing money from abroad if you plan to transfer funds from another country.

What happens if you move or your visa expires

Your account remains open as long as you keep it active and follow Bank of America's rules. If you move to a different U.S. address, update your address online or at a branch. If your visa expires or you leave the country, you can keep the account open and continue to use it remotely—many people do. You can deposit checks by phone or mail, transfer money online, and pay bills from anywhere.

Bank of America may close your account if it detects no activity for a long period (usually 12 months or more) or if you violate the bank's terms of service. If you plan to leave the U.S., tell the bank your new address and keep your account active by making at least one transaction per year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a Bank of America account online if I am a foreigner?

No. Bank of America requires you to visit a branch in person and bring original documents. Online account opening is not available for non-citizens without a U.S. address already on file in the bank's system.

Do I need a Social Security number to open an account?

No. Bank of America will open an account using your ITIN, passport number, or foreign ID number. A Social Security number is not required. If you plan to earn income in the U.S., you will need an ITIN for tax purposes, but not for the bank account itself.

What if I do not have a U.S. address yet?

You cannot open an account without a U.S. street address. If you are arriving soon, ask a friend or family member if you can use their address temporarily, or provide your hotel or temporary housing address. Once you have a permanent address, you can update it with the bank.

Can I open an account if I am in the U.S. on a tourist visa?

Yes. Bank of America does not distinguish between visa types. Bring your passport, proof of U.S. address, and a second form of ID. The process is the same as for any other foreigner.

How long does it take to open an account?

The in-person process at a branch takes 15 to 30 minutes. Your account is usually active the same day, though some transactions may take one to two business days to process.