Yes, foreigners can open a US bank account, but the process and requirements depend on your visa status and the bank you choose
A foreign national can open a checking or savings account at a US bank without being a citizen or permanent resident. However, you will need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a valid US visa, a government-issued ID from your home country, and proof of a US address. Some banks make this straightforward; others treat foreign applicants as higher risk and may refuse or require additional documentation.
The real barrier is not citizenship—it is the bank's own policy. Large national banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo have varying rules. Some accept ITINs; others require a Social Security Number (SSN) or visa. Smaller regional banks and online banks sometimes have clearer paths for foreigners. The fastest approach is to call the bank's customer service line and ask directly whether they accept your type of ID before you spend time in a branch.
Key Takeaways
- You do not need to be a US citizen or green card holder to open a bank account, but you do need an ITIN, SSN, or valid US visa.
- Proof of a US address is required; a hotel address, temporary rental, or address of a friend or family member you are staying with can work.
- Different banks have different rules—call ahead to confirm the bank accepts your ID type before visiting a branch or applying online.
- Online banks often have simpler processes for foreign nationals than large brick-and-mortar banks, though some still require an SSN.
- Once your account is open, you can receive direct deposits, send wire transfers, and use a debit card the same way a US citizen would.
What ID and tax number you will need
The most common path is an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). You apply for an ITIN through the IRS if you do not have a Social Security Number but need to file taxes or open a bank account. The application (Form W-7) can be filed by mail or in person at an IRS office, and processing takes roughly four to six weeks by mail. You will need your passport and proof of your reason for needing an ITIN—opening a bank account counts as a valid reason.
If you are in the US on a visa (F-1 student visa, H-1B work visa, L-1 visa, or tourist visa), you may be able to use your passport and visa as ID instead of an ITIN. Some banks accept this combination; others do not. A few banks will issue you a Social Security Number if you are working legally in the US, which then becomes your primary tax identifier.
If you are a permanent resident or have a green card, you have a Social Security Number and the process is identical to a US citizen's.
Proof of address and what counts
Banks require a US address to open an account. This does not have to be a home you own or a lease in your name. Acceptable addresses include a hotel, an Airbnb, a temporary rental agreement, or the address of a friend or family member you are staying with (though some banks may call to verify). A few banks accept a US address from your employer if you are working here.
Bring a document that shows your name and the address—a utility bill, lease, hotel confirmation, or even a bank statement from another account. If you are using someone else's address, bring a letter from that person on their letterhead stating you are living there, along with their ID and proof of their residence at that address.
Which banks accept foreign nationals and how to apply
Large national banks vary widely. Chase accepts ITINs at some branches but not others, and policies differ by state. Bank of America generally requires an SSN or visa. Wells Fargo has accepted ITINs in the past but has tightened rules. Call the specific branch you plan to visit or check their website for current policy—do not assume a policy applies nationwide.
Online banks often have simpler processes because they do not rely on in-person verification. Wise (formerly TransferWise) and Revolut both serve foreign nationals and do not require an SSN, though they focus on international transfers rather than traditional checking accounts. Charles Schwab accepts ITINs for brokerage accounts and has a checking option. Chime and other fintech banks vary—some accept ITINs, others do not.
Regional and community banks are sometimes more flexible than national chains. If you have a local bank near you, call and ask. Credit unions also vary by membership rules; some accept foreign nationals, others do not.
Documents to bring to the bank
| Document | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Passport or government-issued ID from your home country | Proof of identity | Required by all banks |
| ITIN letter from the IRS, or visa page from your passport | Tax ID or visa status | Depends on which the bank accepts |
| Proof of US address (utility bill, lease, hotel confirmation, or letter from resident) | Proof of address | Must show your name and the address |
| Secondary ID (driver's license, visa, or additional government ID) | Additional verification | Some banks request this; call ahead |
| Social Security Number or ITIN (if you have one) | Tax identification | Write it down; do not assume the bank has it on file |
Bring originals, not copies. Banks will photocopy what they need. If your ID is in another language, bring a certified English translation or ask the bank whether they accept it as-is. Some banks do; others require translation.
What happens after you open the account
Once your account is open, you can deposit money, receive direct deposits from an employer, send wire transfers, and use a debit card. You will receive a routing number and account number, which you can use to set up automatic bill payments or receive ACH transfers from other accounts.
The bank will send you a tax form (1099-INT or 1099-OID) if you earn interest on your account. You will need this for your annual tax return. If you are in the US on a visa, you may have tax filing obligations even if you do not work; consult a tax professional or the IRS website for your visa category.
If you close the account later or leave the US, notify the bank. Some banks charge fees if an account sits inactive for a long time, so check the account agreement for any dormancy rules.
Getting an ITIN if you do not have one
Apply for an ITIN using IRS Form W-7. You can file by mail (send your completed form, passport copy, and proof of your reason for needing an ITIN to the IRS address on the form) or apply in person at an IRS office or an IRS-authorized acceptance agent. Processing by mail takes four to six weeks; in-person processing is sometimes faster.
You do not need to be working or filing taxes to get an ITIN—needing one to open a bank account is a valid reason. Once you have the ITIN, the IRS will mail you a letter with your number. Keep this letter; you will need it when you open your account and when you file taxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Social Security Number to open a bank account as a foreigner?
No. An ITIN or a valid US visa can work instead. Some banks accept one or the other; some accept both. Call the bank first to confirm what they will accept from you.
Can I open a bank account if I am here on a tourist visa?
Yes, but fewer banks accept tourist visa holders than work or student visa holders. You will need your passport and visa page as ID. Some banks also require an ITIN. Call ahead to confirm the bank's policy before you visit.
What if the bank says no?
Try a different bank. Online banks, regional banks, and credit unions often have different rules than large national chains. If multiple banks refuse, you may need to get an ITIN first, as some banks treat that as a stronger signal of legitimacy than a visa alone.
Can I use a hotel address if I am not staying there permanently?
Yes. Banks accept temporary addresses. Bring a hotel confirmation or receipt showing your name and the address. If you move later, you can update your address with the bank online or by phone.
How long does it take to open an account?
In-person at a branch, usually 15 to 30 minutes if you have all your documents. Online, it can take a few minutes to a few hours, depending on the bank's verification process. Some banks verify your identity immediately; others take a day or two.