Yes, non-US citizens can open a bank account in the United States, but the process and requirements depend on your immigration status and which bank you choose.
Most major US banks will open accounts for non-citizens, though they require more documentation than they ask from citizens. What you'll need varies: a valid passport or national ID, an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or Social Security Number (SSN), and proof of a US address. Some banks have specific programs for non-citizens; others treat all applicants the same way but enforce stricter identity verification.
The real barrier is not citizenship but documentation. Banks must comply with federal anti-money-laundering rules, which means they verify your identity more thoroughly than they would for a US citizen. This takes longer and sometimes requires documents that are harder to obtain if you're outside the country or new to the US.
Key Takeaways
- You do not need to be a US citizen to open a bank account, but you do need a valid ID, proof of address, and either an ITIN or SSN.
- Banks verify non-citizens' identities more strictly than citizens' because of federal anti-money-laundering requirements, which can add time to the process.
- Some banks have dedicated programs for non-citizens and immigrants; others will open accounts but may ask more questions.
- Your immigration status (visa holder, permanent resident, undocumented) affects which documents you can provide and which banks will work with you.
What documentation you need to bring
Every bank requires proof of identity and proof of address. For identity, bring a valid passport, national ID card, or visa. A US driver's license or state ID works if you already have one, but most non-citizens don't yet.
For proof of address, banks accept utility bills, lease agreements, or mail from a government agency. The document must show your name and a current US address. If you just arrived and don't have a utility bill yet, a lease or rental agreement usually works. Some banks accept a letter from your employer or school on letterhead confirming your address.
You will also need either a Social Security Number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If you have a work visa or permanent residency, you likely have an SSN already. If you don't work and aren't a permanent resident, you can request an ITIN from the IRS using Form W-7. The ITIN process takes several weeks by mail, so plan ahead if you don't have one yet.
Which banks accept non-citizens and how long it takes
Major national banks like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all open accounts for non-citizens, though their processes vary. Chase and Citibank have explicit programs for international customers and visa holders. Regional banks and credit unions sometimes have stricter rules and may require you to visit a branch in person.
Opening an account typically takes one to three business days if you do it in person at a branch with all documents ready. Online applications take longer because the bank must verify your identity remotely, which can add five to ten business days. Some banks will place a hold on your account during verification, meaning you can't withdraw money until they confirm your identity.
If you apply online and the bank cannot verify your information automatically, they will contact you by phone or email to ask follow-up questions. This is normal and does not mean you've been denied. Respond promptly so the process doesn't stall.
How immigration status affects your options
Your visa type or immigration status determines which documents you can show and sometimes which banks will work with you. Visa holders (F-1 students, H-1B workers, L-1 transfers) can open accounts at any major bank using their passport and visa. You'll need an SSN if you work or study; if you don't have one, an ITIN works at most banks.
Permanent residents (green card holders) have the easiest path because you have an SSN and can show a green card as proof of identity and status. The process is nearly identical to opening an account as a citizen.
Undocumented immigrants face the most restrictions. Some states and cities have passed laws requiring banks to open accounts for undocumented residents, but this is not federal law. California, Illinois, New York, and a few others have such laws; most states do not. In states without these protections, some credit unions and smaller banks will open accounts using an ITIN and a combination of other documents (lease, utility bill, school ID), but major national banks often decline. Call ahead to ask whether the bank will work with you before you visit.
Getting an ITIN if you don't have a Social Security Number
An ITIN is a nine-digit number the IRS issues to people who need to file taxes but don't have an SSN. You request one using IRS Form W-7, which you can mail to the IRS or submit in person at an IRS office or authorized acceptance agent.
By mail, the process takes four to six weeks. You must include your completed Form W-7, a valid passport or national ID, and proof of your US address. The IRS will mail your ITIN to you once approved. In person, the process is faster—sometimes same-day—but you need to find an IRS office or authorized agent near you, which is not available in all areas.
Once you have an ITIN, most banks will accept it in place of an SSN. Write it on the account application where it asks for an SSN or tax ID. Some banks ask why you have an ITIN instead of an SSN; this is routine and not a problem.
What happens after you open the account
Once your account is open, you can deposit money, write checks, and use a debit card like any other account holder. Some banks place a temporary hold on large deposits while they verify the source of funds, especially for non-citizens. This is normal and usually lifts within a few business days.
You may also be asked to maintain a minimum balance or pay monthly fees. Non-citizens are not exempt from these rules. Compare account types before you open—some banks offer no-fee checking for students or people under 25, which can save you money.
If you later move to a different state or change your immigration status, notify your bank. You don't need to close the account, but the bank may ask for updated address or status information to stay compliant with federal rules.
Alternatives if a bank won't open an account for you
If major banks decline, try credit unions. Many credit unions have looser rules than banks and will open accounts for non-citizens using an ITIN and proof of address. You usually need to be a member of the credit union first, which sometimes requires living or working in a specific area or having a family member who is already a member.
Some online banks and fintech companies (like Wise, Revolut, or Chime) offer accounts to non-US residents, though their rules vary by immigration status. Read the terms carefully—some require an SSN or won't serve undocumented immigrants. These accounts are often easier to open than traditional banks but may have lower deposit limits or fewer features.
If you're waiting for an ITIN or SSN, some banks will open a basic savings account using just a passport and proof of address, then upgrade it once you have a tax ID. Ask the bank whether this is an option.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a US address to open a bank account?
Yes, banks require proof of a US address. If you're staying with family or friends, a lease agreement or utility bill in their name with your name added, or a letter from them on their letterhead confirming you live there, usually works. Some banks accept a letter from your employer or school instead.
Can I open an account if I'm here on a tourist visa?
Most major banks will open an account for a tourist visa holder, but you'll need a US address and either an SSN or ITIN. If you're only visiting short-term, some banks may decline because they can't verify your long-term ties to the US. Credit unions are sometimes more flexible for short-term visitors.
What if the bank asks why I have an ITIN instead of an SSN?
This is a routine question and not a red flag. Simply explain that you're not yet may be able to access for an SSN but need a tax ID to open an account. Banks are familiar with ITINs and accept them regularly. You don't need to provide details about your immigration status unless the bank specifically asks.
How long does it take to get an ITIN?
By mail, four to six weeks. In person at an IRS office or authorized agent, sometimes same-day or within a few days. Check the IRS website to find an authorized agent near you if you want to apply in person.
Can I open a joint account with someone who is a US citizen?
Yes. The US citizen co-owner can simplify the process because banks may require less documentation from them. Both of you will need to provide ID and sign the account agreement. The bank will still verify your identity as the non-citizen account holder.