What Non-US Citizens Need to Know About US Bank Checking Accounts

US Bank will open a checking account for non-US citizens, but the process is more involved than for US citizens. You will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a valid passport, proof of a US address, and an initial deposit. US Bank does not require citizenship, but it does require you to establish a tax identity with the IRS and prove you have a physical location in the United States where mail can reach you.

The account itself works the same way once it is open — you get a debit card, online access, and the ability to receive direct deposits and transfers. The main difference is in the paperwork and verification steps before the account is created. Some branches are more experienced with non-citizen accounts than others, so calling ahead to confirm they handle ITIN applications can save you a trip.

Key Takeaways

  • US Bank requires either an ITIN, valid passport, or state ID to open a checking account as a non-US citizen.
  • You must provide proof of a US address — a lease, utility bill, or bank statement showing your name and current location.
  • An initial deposit is required, typically $25 to $100 depending on the account type.
  • The verification process can take several business days to a week because US Bank must confirm your identity and tax status with the IRS.
  • Not all branches handle ITIN accounts regularly, so contacting your local branch before visiting can speed up the process.

Documents You Will Need to Bring

Bring a government-issued photo ID — a valid passport works best for non-US citizens, though some branches also accept a national ID card from your home country. If you have already obtained an ITIN, bring the letter from the IRS that shows your ITIN number. If you do not have an ITIN yet, US Bank can help you start the application process during your visit, though you may need to return once the IRS issues your number.

You also need proof of your US address. A lease agreement, utility bill, or bank statement with your name and current address will work. The document must be recent — usually dated within the last 60 to 90 days. If you are staying with someone else and do not have a document in your name, a notarized letter from the person whose name is on the lease or utility bill, combined with your ID, may be accepted, but call your branch first to confirm.

Bring your initial deposit in cash, a check, or be prepared to transfer funds from another account. Most US Bank checking accounts require a minimum opening deposit of $25 to $100.

Getting an ITIN Before You Open the Account

An ITIN is a nine-digit number issued by the IRS to non-US citizens who need to file taxes or open financial accounts. You do not need to be working to get one — the IRS issues ITINs to anyone with a legitimate reason to have a US tax identity. If you plan to work, receive income, or maintain a US bank account, an ITIN makes the process smoother.

You can apply for an ITIN by filing Form W-7 with the IRS. You will need to include your passport or national ID, proof of your US address, and a completed Form W-7. The IRS processes ITIN applications by mail, and it typically takes four to six weeks. Some tax preparation services and immigration attorneys can also help you file Form W-7, which may speed up the process.

If you do not have an ITIN yet, you can still open a US Bank account in some cases — the bank may issue you a temporary account number while your ITIN application is pending, though this varies by branch. Ask your branch whether they offer this option.

What Happens During the Account Opening Process

When you visit the branch with your documents, a banker will verify your identity, check your address, and confirm your tax status. They will run a background check through ChexSystems, a banking history database, to see whether you have had problems with previous accounts. This check does not affect your credit score.

If you have an ITIN, the process usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. If you do not have an ITIN yet, the banker will help you complete Form W-7 and explain what happens next. You will receive a receipt showing your application was submitted, and the IRS will mail your ITIN to the address you provided — typically within four to six weeks.

Once your account is open, you will receive your debit card by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Your online banking access is usually available immediately, so you can check your balance and set up transfers right away.

Online-Only Accounts vs. In-Person Accounts

US Bank does not currently offer a fully online account opening process for non-US citizens without a US address already on file. You will need to visit a physical branch to open your first account. However, once your account is open, you can manage everything online — deposits, transfers, bill pay, and account changes.

Some online banks and fintech companies do offer accounts to non-US citizens with an ITIN, but they typically require you to have already established a US address and may have stricter verification requirements. US Bank's in-person process, while requiring a branch visit, is often faster and more straightforward because the banker can verify your documents on the spot.

What to Do If Your Branch Turns You Away

If your local US Bank branch says they cannot open an account for you, ask to speak with a manager and explain that you have an ITIN or valid passport and proof of address. Some branches have less experience with non-citizen accounts and may incorrectly assume they cannot help you. US Bank's official policy allows non-citizen accounts, so escalating the request usually resolves the issue.

If the branch still declines, you can visit a different US Bank location or call US Bank's customer service line to ask which branches in your area handle ITIN accounts regularly. You can also contact US Bank's main office to file a complaint if you believe you were denied service unfairly.

As an alternative, other major US banks — including Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo — also open accounts for non-US citizens with an ITIN. If US Bank is not working out, these banks may have branches near you with more experience in this area.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a Social Security number to open a US Bank checking account?

No. An ITIN or valid passport is sufficient. US Bank uses the ITIN or passport number to verify your identity with the IRS and confirm you are not on any sanctions lists. A Social Security number is only required if you are a US citizen or permanent resident.

Can I open an account if I am in the US on a visa?

Yes. Visa status does not prevent you from opening a checking account. You will still need an ITIN or valid passport, proof of your US address, and an initial deposit. Your visa itself is not a substitute for these documents, but it can help prove your legal presence if questions arise.

How long does it take to get an ITIN if I do not have one yet?

The IRS typically processes ITIN applications by mail within four to six weeks. Some tax preparation services offer expedited processing for a fee, which can reduce the timeline to two to three weeks. You can open a temporary account at some US Bank branches while your ITIN is pending, though this varies by location.

What if I do not have a US address yet?

You cannot open a US Bank account without a US address on file. If you are moving to the US soon, you can use a temporary address — such as a hotel, Airbnb, or the address of someone you will be staying with — as long as you can provide proof of that address. Once you move to a permanent address, you can update your account information online.

Will opening a US bank account affect my immigration status?

No. Opening a bank account is a routine financial transaction and does not affect your visa status or immigration proceedings. Banks do not report account openings to immigration authorities. However, if you are required to file US taxes because you earned income in the US, having a bank account makes it easier to file your tax return and receive any refund.