Yes, foreigners can open a bank account in the US, but the process depends on your immigration status and the bank you choose
Most major US banks will open an account for a non-citizen if you have a valid passport, a US address, and a tax identification number. You do not need to be a permanent resident or have a Social Security number, though some banks make it easier if you have one. The real barrier is not citizenship—it is the bank's own rules about which documents they accept and which countries they will serve.
The process takes longer than it does for US citizens because banks must verify your identity against international records and comply with anti-money-laundering rules. You will likely need to visit a branch in person; most banks do not open accounts for non-citizens online. Bring your passport, proof of your US address (a lease, utility bill, or letter from your employer), and your tax ID or ITIN application receipt.
Key Takeaways
- A valid passport and US address are the minimum requirements; you do not need a Social Security number, though having one speeds the process.
- You will need a tax identification number—either an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) or an SSN—and most banks want to see proof you have applied for one.
- Visit a bank branch in person; most major banks do not open accounts for non-citizens online.
- Some banks refuse accounts to citizens of certain countries or to people on certain visa types; call ahead to confirm the bank will serve you.
- The account opening takes one to three weeks after your visit because the bank must verify your identity internationally.
What documents you need to bring
Your passport is your primary ID. It must be valid—expired passports will not work. Bring the original, not a copy; the bank will examine it but will not keep it.
You need proof of a US address. A lease agreement, utility bill, or a letter from your employer stating your work address all work. The document should show your name and the address. If you just arrived and do not have a utility bill yet, a lease or a signed letter from a landlord or employer will do.
You need a tax identification number. If you are a US citizen or permanent resident, you have a Social Security number. If you are not, you need an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). You can apply for an ITIN at the same time you open the account—bring your passport and the IRS Form W-7 (Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), which you can download from irs.gov. Some banks will accept an ITIN application receipt as proof you have applied; others will wait until you have the actual ITIN before opening the account. Call the bank's customer service line before you visit to ask which they accept.
Which banks accept non-citizen accounts and which do not
Major national banks like Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank all open accounts for non-citizens, but their rules vary by branch and by your visa status. Some branches are stricter than others, and some banks will not serve people on tourist visas or from certain countries.
Call the bank's main customer service line and ask whether they open accounts for non-citizens with your visa type and passport country. Do not assume the answer is yes just because the bank is large. If the first bank says no, try another; smaller regional banks and credit unions sometimes have fewer restrictions, though they may require a larger opening deposit.
Citibank and HSBC have a history of serving international customers and non-citizens, so they are often easier starting points. Credit unions vary widely—some welcome non-citizens, others do not. Ask before you visit.
Your visa status and what it means for your account
Banks care about your visa status because it affects how long you will be in the US and whether you have a tax obligation. The most common statuses are:
- F-1 (student visa): Most banks accept F-1 visa holders. You will need your passport, I-20 form (from your school), and proof of a US address. Some banks ask for a letter from your school confirming your enrollment.
- H-1B (work visa): Banks routinely open accounts for H-1B holders. Bring your passport, your visa stamp, and a letter from your employer on company letterhead stating your position and salary.
- L-1 (intracompany transfer): Similar to H-1B; bring your passport, visa, and employer letter.
- Tourist visa (B-1/B-2): Some banks will open accounts for tourists, but many will not because your stay is temporary. Call ahead. If a bank refuses, try a credit union or a smaller regional bank.
- Undocumented or no visa: Most mainstream banks will not open an account. Some credit unions and community banks in states with policies supporting undocumented immigrants do offer accounts; search for "undocumented immigrant bank account" plus your state name.
Before you visit any bank, call ahead with your visa type. The bank can tell you in minutes whether they will serve you, saving you a wasted trip.
Getting an ITIN if you do not have a Social Security number
An ITIN is a nine-digit number the IRS issues to non-citizens who have a US tax obligation. You need one to open a bank account if you do not have an SSN. You do not need to have earned income yet; the IRS will issue an ITIN to anyone who will owe US taxes.
Download Form W-7 from irs.gov. Fill it out and mail it to the IRS address listed on the form, along with your passport (original or certified copy) and proof of your US address. The IRS will mail your ITIN to you in four to six weeks. Some banks will open your account while you are waiting if you bring the Form W-7 receipt showing you have applied; others will not. Ask the bank before you visit.
If you are in a hurry, some accountants and tax preparation services can help you apply for an ITIN in person at an IRS office, which can speed the process. Search for "ITIN application assistance" in your city.
What happens after you open the account
Once you open the account, you will receive a debit card in the mail within one to two weeks. You can use your account immediately for direct deposit and bill pay, even before the card arrives. Some banks will issue a temporary card at the branch on the day you open the account.
You will need to set up online banking. The bank will mail you login credentials or will set them up at the branch. You can then transfer money, pay bills, and check your balance from anywhere.
If you plan to send money to another country, ask the bank about international wire transfer fees and exchange rates when you open the account. These vary widely and can be expensive. Some banks offer better rates than others, and some online transfer services (like Wise or OFX) are cheaper than traditional bank wires.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a Social Security number to open a bank account?
No. You need a tax identification number, which can be an ITIN if you do not have an SSN. An ITIN takes four to six weeks to arrive by mail, but some banks will open your account while you are waiting if you bring proof you have applied.
Can I open an account online if I am a foreigner?
Most major banks require you to visit a branch in person. A few online banks accept non-citizens, but they are rare and often have higher fees or lower interest rates. Call the bank's customer service line to ask whether they offer online account opening for non-citizens before you try.
What if a bank refuses to open an account for me?
Try another bank. Different branches of the same bank sometimes have different policies. Credit unions and smaller regional banks are often more flexible. If you are on a tourist visa or from a country the bank considers high-risk, you may need to try several places before you find one that will serve you.
How long does it take to open an account?
The visit itself takes 20 to 30 minutes. The bank then verifies your identity, which takes one to three weeks. You can use your account for direct deposit and bill pay during this time, but you will not receive your debit card until verification is complete.
Can I use my account if I leave the US?
Yes. Once the account is open, you can use it from anywhere—you can check your balance, transfer money, and pay bills online. However, some banks will close your account if you do not maintain a minimum balance or if you do not use it for a long period. Check the bank's policy when you open the account.