Updated for 2025 • MoneyGuideUSA
---
Introduction
The United States banking system is one of the most advanced in the world, but if you’re a new immigrant, international student, freelancer, or a non-resident, opening a bank account can feel confusing — especially if you don’t have a Social Security Number (SSN) or U.S. credit history.
Here’s the good news:
In 2025, several U.S. banks and fintech companies offer bank accounts without SSN, making it easier for newcomers to:
✔ Receive payments
✔ Build financial history
✔ Apply for credit cards later
✔ Pay bills and rent
✔ Send and receive international transfers
This guide explains the best U.S. bank accounts for immigrants and non-residents, required documents, and which banks approve accounts with only a passport or ITIN.
---
Why Immigrants Need a U.S. Bank Account
A U.S. bank account helps you:
Benefit Why It Matters
Build financial history Needed for credit cards and loans
Avoid high cash fees Cash transactions are expensive
Receive salary & deposits Employers require bank accounts
Pay rent & utilities Many landlords accept only digital payments
Protect money FDIC-insured, secure storage
Without a bank account, life becomes expensive and inconvenient.
---
Required Documents to Open a U.S. Bank Account
Depending on the bank, any combination of these may be accepted:
✔ Passport (mandatory for immigrants)
✔ U.S. Address (mailing or rental address)
✔ Visa (F-1, J-1, H-1B, L-1 etc.)
✔ ITIN (if no SSN)
✔ I-20 (for students)
✔ Bank statement from home country
TIP: Banks like Chime, Mercury, and Wise accept applications even if you don’t live in the U.S. yet.
---
Best Bank Accounts for Immigrants & Non-Residents (2025)
Below are the top banks ranked by approval ease, fees, support, and document requirements.
---
1️⃣ Chime — Best for Beginners (No SSN Required Initially)
Why it’s great:
No monthly fees
Approval possible with passport + U.S. address
Comes with Visa debit card
No minimum balance
Easy mobile app
Ideal for:
Students, temporary workers, ITIN applicants
---
2️⃣ Bank of America — Best Traditional Bank for Newcomers
Why it’s great:
Accepts ITIN for account setup
Large branch network
Easy to upgrade to credit cards later
Reliable customer support
Best for:
Immigrants planning long-term stay in the U.S.
---
3️⃣ Capital One 360 — Online Bank With Strong Features
Why it’s great:
Accepts ITIN
No monthly maintenance fees
Free ATM withdrawals nationwide
High approval for newcomers
Best for:
People who prefer online banking
---
4️⃣ Mercury — Best for Business & Freelancers
Why it’s great:
Designed for immigrants opening U.S. business accounts
No SSN required if business eligible
Works globally
Virtual debit cards
Best for:
Entrepreneurs and freelancers
---
5️⃣ Wise (Formerly TransferWise) — Best for Foreign Residents
Why it’s great:
Open U.S. bank account from your home country
Multi-currency support
Global debit card
Low international transfer fees
Best for:
Non-residents, remote workers, online earners (YouTube, Upwork, Amazon)
---
6️⃣ Wells Fargo — Best for Students
Why it’s great:
Accepts college admission letter + passport
Student-friendly account
Optional credit cards later
Best for:
International students starting their financial journey
---
Comparison Table (Quick Overview)
Bank SSN Needed? ITIN Accepted? Monthly Fees Best For
Chime No Yes $0 Beginners
Bank of America No Yes $0–$12 Long-term immigrants
Capital One No Yes $0 Online users
Mercury No (for business) Yes $0 Entrepreneurs
Wise No No $0 Non-residents
Wells Fargo Sometimes Yes $0–$10 Students
---
How to Choose the Right Bank
Ask yourself:
✔ Do I need a debit card quickly? → Chime
✔ Am I staying long-term? → Bank of America
✔ Want business banking? → Mercury
✔ Living outside USA? → Wise
✔ Student? → Wells Fargo
---
Using Your Bank Account to Build Credit
Once account is active:
1️⃣ Turn on direct deposit
2️⃣ Keep your account active
3️⃣ Connect to a credit builder card
4️⃣ Maintain consistent transactions
5️⃣ Apply for starter card after 90 days
This creates a financial footprint banks use for approvals.
---
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Can I open a U.S. bank account without SSN?
Yes — several banks accept ITIN, passport, and visa.
Q. Do online banks approve faster?
Yes, especially Chime, Wise, and Mercury.
Q. Can I use my home-country address?
Some banks allow it; most require a U.S. mailing address.
---
Final Thoughts
Opening a U.S. bank account is the first major step toward establishing a financial identity in America. Whether you're a student, immigrant, freelancer, or non-resident, the banks listed above offer simple, beginner-friendly options with minimal documentation.
Choose the account that matches your goals, start depositing money, and soon you'll be ready for credit cards, loans, and a strong U.S. credit profile.
