What you need to open a bank account as a foreigner

Most US banks will open an account for you if you have a valid passport or national ID, proof of a US address, and a way to verify your identity. The US address does not have to be permanent—a hotel, temporary rental, or even a friend's address works for many banks. You will also need either a Social Security Number (SSN), an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), or in some cases just your passport number.

The easiest path is to walk into a branch of a large national bank like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, or Citibank with your passport and proof of address. Smaller regional banks and credit unions often have stricter rules and may turn you away. Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Wise are sometimes more flexible, but they require a US address and a phone number that can receive SMS verification.

If you do not yet have a US address, you can use a mail forwarding service, a temporary address from an Airbnb or hotel booking confirmation, or ask an employer or school to provide one. Some banks will accept a lease agreement or utility bill in your name; others will not. Calling the bank's customer service line before you visit saves a wasted trip.

Key Takeaways

  • Large national banks are more likely to open accounts for foreigners than small regional banks or credit unions.
  • You will need a valid passport, proof of a US address (temporary addresses count), and either an SSN, ITIN, or passport number for identity verification.
  • If you do not have an SSN or ITIN yet, bring your passport and ask the bank whether they can open an account using your passport number alone.
  • Online-only banks are sometimes more flexible but require a US address and a working phone number for SMS verification.
  • Calling ahead to confirm what documents the specific branch accepts prevents wasted trips and clarifies whether you need an appointment.

Getting an SSN or ITIN before you open an account

A Social Security Number (SSN) is easier to get if you have a job offer or are enrolled in a US school. You can request one at your local Social Security Administration office with your passport, visa, and proof of US address. Processing takes about two weeks. If you are not working or studying, you may not be able to get an SSN.

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is available to anyone, regardless of immigration status or work authorization. You request one from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) by mail using Form W-7, along with your passport and proof of US address. Processing takes four to six weeks. Some banks accept an ITIN in place of an SSN; others do not. Call the bank first to confirm.

Many banks will open an account without an SSN or ITIN if you show your passport and explain you are in the process of getting one. They may place limits on the account—lower withdrawal limits, no debit card, or a hold on deposits—until you provide a tax ID number. Ask what restrictions apply before you open the account.

Documents to bring to the bank

Bring your passport (original, not a copy) and at least one proof of your US address. Acceptable proofs include a lease or rental agreement, a utility bill, a bank statement from another US bank, a government-issued ID with a US address, or a mail forwarding service letter. If you do not have any of these yet, a hotel or Airbnb booking confirmation with your name and the address usually works.

Bring your SSN or ITIN if you have one. If you do not, bring documentation showing you have requested one—a receipt from the Social Security Administration or the IRS—or simply tell the bank you are in the process. Some banks will ask for a second form of ID, such as a driver's license from your home country or an international student ID.

Bring a phone number where the bank can reach you. This should be a US phone number if possible, though some banks will accept an international number. If you do not have a US phone yet, you can get a prepaid SIM card from any convenience store or phone retailer for $20 to $40.

Differences between banks for foreign account holders

Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank typically require a passport, US address, and SSN or ITIN (or will accept your passport number). They open accounts the same day or next day and have branches everywhere, making them the best choice for foreigners with or without a tax ID number. Regional or local banks have similar timelines but may have stricter rules about which documents they accept.

Online-only banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Wise are sometimes more flexible about tax ID requirements but demand a US address and a US phone number for SMS verification. Accounts open within 3 to 5 business days. Credit unions usually require membership (through an employer, school, or family member) and often insist on an SSN or ITIN, making them harder for new foreigners to join. If a large national bank turns you down, try an online bank or a smaller bank that specializes in serving immigrants.

What happens after you open the account

The bank will give you a debit card, usually within 7 to 10 business days. You can start using your account immediately for transfers and bill payments, but you may not be able to use the debit card until it arrives. Some banks send the card to your US address; others allow you to pick it up at the branch.

Set up online banking and mobile banking right away so you can monitor your account and transfer money. Most banks offer these services free. You will need to create a username and password and set up two-factor authentication, usually through SMS or an authenticator app.

If you plan to send money to or receive money from your home country, ask the bank about wire transfer fees and international transfer options. Large banks typically charge $15 to $50 per outgoing wire transfer. Services like Wise, OFX, or your bank's own international transfer service may be cheaper for regular transfers.

Common reasons banks refuse to open accounts for foreigners

Banks may refuse if you cannot provide proof of a US address. If this happens, use a mail forwarding service, ask your employer or school for a letter confirming your address, or book a short-term rental and use that address. Some banks will accept a letter from your employer or school on letterhead instead of a utility bill.

Banks may also refuse if they cannot verify your identity through their systems. This is more common for people from countries with limited banking records or those who have recently arrived. Ask whether the bank can use your passport number and a video call with a bank officer instead of an in-person visit. Some banks have processes for this; others do not.

If a bank refuses you, try a different bank. Large national banks are more likely to say yes than small regional banks. If you are turned away by multiple banks, contact a bank that specializes in serving immigrants or international students—some exist in most major cities and have streamlined processes for foreigners.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a US phone number to open a bank account?

Most banks prefer a US phone number but will accept an international number if necessary. If you do not have a US phone yet, you can buy a prepaid SIM card at any convenience store for $20 to $40 and activate it in minutes. Online banks are more likely to require a US number for SMS verification.

Can I open an account if I am here on a tourist visa?

Yes. Banks do not check your visa status. You will need a valid passport, proof of a US address, and either an SSN, ITIN, or passport number. If you are staying short-term, use your hotel or Airbnb address as your proof of address.

What if the bank asks for a minimum deposit?

Most checking accounts require a minimum opening deposit of $0 to $100. Some banks waive the minimum if you set up direct deposit. Ask the bank about their minimum before you open the account. If the minimum is too high, try an online bank or a different branch.

Can I open a savings account instead of a checking account?

Yes, though checking accounts are more useful for daily payments and bill payments. Many banks let you open both at the same time. Savings accounts typically earn interest but have limits on how many withdrawals you can make per month.

What if I move to a different state after I open my account?

Your account stays open and active. You do not need to close it or open a new one. Update your address with the bank through online banking or by calling customer service. If your bank has no branches in your new state, you can still use ATMs and online banking, though you may pay out-of-network ATM fees.