When I first arrived in the US, I walked into five different banks before finding one that would open an account for me. Some said they needed an SSN (which I didn't have yet). Others had complicated requirements I couldn't meet.
It was frustrating. But here's the good news: you don't need to be a citizen OR have an SSN to open a US bank account. You just need to know which banks are immigrant-friendly.
Let me save you the hassle I went through.
What Makes a Bank "Immigrant-Friendly"?
Not all banks are created equal when it comes to serving newcomers. Here's what to look for:
✅ Accepts ITIN instead of SSN
Many banks require a Social Security Number, but immigrant-friendly banks accept Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers.
✅ Accepts foreign passports as ID
No US driver's license? No problem.
✅ Multiple language services
Spanish, Mandarin, Vietnamese, and other language support.
✅ Flexible address verification
Understands that newcomers might not have utility bills yet.
✅ Lower minimum deposits
$0-$25 to open, not $500+.
✅ No monthly fees (or easy to waive)
Immigrant-friendly banks make it simple to avoid fees.
The 8 Best Banks for Immigrants (2026)
1. Bank of America ⭐ Best for ITIN Holders
Why it's #1 for immigrants:
- Accepts ITIN instead of SSN (one of the few major banks that does!)
- Full Spanish language services
- Branches in every major city
- Widely recognized (important for future credit applications)
Best Account: Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking®
Requirements:
- ITIN or SSN
- Government-issued ID (foreign passport accepted!)
- US address (can be temporary)
- $25 opening deposit
Monthly Fee: $4.95
How to waive: Qualifying direct deposit of $250+
Pros:
✅ Accepts ITIN
✅ Low opening deposit
✅ No overdraft fees (can't overdraft)
✅ Spanish-speaking staff at most branches
✅ Mobile app in multiple languages
Cons:
❌ Monthly fee (though easy to waive)
❌ Limited interest on savings
Perfect for: Undocumented immigrants, ITIN holders, anyone without SSN
2. Wells Fargo - Great Accessibility
Why it's great for immigrants:
- Accepts ITIN
- Massive ATM network (13,000+ locations)
- Spanish services widely available
- Multiple account options
Best Account: Everyday Checking
Requirements:
- ITIN or SSN
- Government ID (passport accepted)
- US address
- $25 opening deposit
Monthly Fee: $10
How to waive: $500+ in direct deposits OR $500 minimum daily balance
Pros:
✅ Accepts ITIN
✅ Huge branch and ATM network
✅ Spanish language services
✅ Remittance services (ExpressSend)
Cons:
❌ Higher monthly fee
❌ Past controversies (fake account scandal)
Perfect for: People who value widespread branch access
3. Chase Bank - Best Overall for Work Visa Holders
Why it's excellent:
- Strong digital banking platform
- International presence (good if you have Chase abroad)
- Accepts work authorization documents
- College checking option for students
Best Account: Chase Total Checking®
Requirements:
- SSN or work authorization
- Government ID
- US address
- $0 opening deposit
Monthly Fee: $12
How to waive: $500+ direct deposit OR $1,500 average daily balance
Pros:
✅ $0 to open
✅ Excellent mobile app
✅ Zelle integrated
✅ Large ATM network
✅ Great for building relationship for future credit
Cons:
❌ Requires SSN (less flexible than BofA or Wells Fargo)
❌ Monthly fee if you don't meet requirements
Perfect for: H-1B visa holders, students with SSN, permanent residents
4. Citibank - Best for Global Banking
Why it's great for immigrants:
- Global presence (60+ countries)
- Free international transfers between Citi accounts
- Accepts foreign passports
- Good if you maintain accounts abroad
Best Account: Citi® Access Account
Requirements:
- SSN (less flexible than some others)
- Government ID (foreign passport OK)
- US address
- $0 opening deposit
Monthly Fee: $0
Pros:
✅ No monthly fee
✅ Global transfers (free between Citi accounts worldwide)
✅ Good if you're sending money home
✅ No minimum balance
Cons:
❌ Requires SSN (not ITIN-friendly)
❌ Fewer branches than Chase or BofA
Perfect for: People with Citi accounts in home country, frequent international transfers
5. HSBC - Best for International Professionals
Why it stands out:
- Truly global bank
- Premier relationship (link accounts across countries)
- Understands international customers
- Multiple currency accounts
Best Account: HSBC Premier Checking (if you qualify) or HSBC USA Checking
Requirements:
- SSN or work authorization
- $75,000+ in combined deposits (for Premier)
- Government ID
- US address
Monthly Fee:
- Premier: $50 (waived with $75k in deposits)
- USA Checking: $0-$25 depending on type
Pros:
✅ Global banking relationship
✅ Premium service if you qualify
✅ Great for expats
✅ Multiple currency capabilities
Cons:
❌ High minimums for premium accounts
❌ Limited US branch network
❌ Not ITIN-friendly
Perfect for: High-earning expats, professionals with HSBC accounts abroad
6. Capital One 360 - Best Online Option
Why it works for immigrants:
- 100% online (no branch bias)
- No monthly fees ever
- No minimum balance
- Easy application process
Best Account: 360 Checking®
Requirements:
- SSN (may accept ITIN—call to confirm)
- US address
- Government ID
- $0 opening deposit
Monthly Fee: $0
Pros:
✅ No fees whatsoever
✅ High-yield savings option (great rates)
✅ Excellent mobile app
✅ Early direct deposit
✅ Fee-free ATMs at 70,000+ locations
Cons:
❌ No physical branches (not for everyone)
❌ Primarily SSN-based
❌ Can't deposit cash easily
Perfect for: Tech-savvy immigrants comfortable with online-only banking
7. TD Bank - Best Customer Service
Why immigrants like it:
- Open 7 days a week (including Sundays!)
- Extended hours
- Accepts ITIN at some locations
- "America's Most Convenient Bank"
Best Account: TD Convenience Checking®
Requirements:
- SSN or ITIN (call branch to confirm)
- Government ID
- US address
- $0-$25 opening deposit
Monthly Fee: $15
How to waive: $100 minimum daily balance OR direct deposit
Pros:
✅ Best hours (7 days a week, some until 8pm!)
✅ ITIN acceptance (varies by branch)
✅ Great in-person service
✅ Good mobile app
Cons:
❌ Limited to East Coast
❌ Higher monthly fee
❌ ITIN acceptance not guaranteed
Perfect for: People who value in-person service and convenient hours
8. Local Credit Unions - Hidden Gems
Why they're often the BEST option:
- More flexible with requirements
- Lower fees
- Better customer service
- Community-focused
- Often ITIN-friendly
Examples:
- Latino Community Credit Union (NC, NJ)
- Self-Help Credit Union (CA, NC, IL)
- Affinity Federal Credit Union (NJ)
- Unitus Community Credit Union (OR)
Requirements: Vary by credit union (often more flexible!)
How to find one:
- Google "[Your City] + immigrant credit union"
- Visit mycreditunion.gov
- Ask in local immigrant communities
Pros:
✅ Most flexible with ITIN
✅ Lowest fees
✅ Personal relationships
✅ Community support
✅ Financial education programs
Cons:
❌ Smaller ATM networks
❌ Less advanced technology
❌ Must become a member first
Perfect for: Anyone! Seriously, check your local credit union first.
Quick Comparison Chart
| Bank | ITIN Accepted? | Opening Deposit | Monthly Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bank of America | ✅ Yes | $25 | $4.95* | ITIN holders |
| Wells Fargo | ✅ Yes | $25 | $10* | Wide access |
| Chase | ❌ SSN only | $0 | $12* | Work visa holders |
| Citibank | ❌ SSN only | $0 | $0 | Global transfers |
| HSBC | ❌ SSN only | Varies | $0-$50* | Expats |
| Capital One 360 | ⚠️ Maybe | $0 | $0 | Online banking |
| TD Bank | ⚠️ Varies | $0-$25 | $15* | Convenience |
| Credit Unions | ✅ Usually | $0-$25 | $0-$5* | Everyone |
*Monthly fees can be waived
Step-by-Step: Opening an Account as an Immigrant
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
You'll need:
- ✅ ITIN or SSN
- ✅ Government ID (passport)
- ✅ Proof of US address (lease, utility bill, or letter from employer)
- ✅ Cash or check for opening deposit
Pro tip: Call the specific branch ahead of time to confirm they accept ITIN and ask what documents they need.
Step 2: Choose Your Bank
Based on your situation:
- No SSN? → Bank of America, Wells Fargo, or credit union
- Have SSN? → Chase, Citibank, or Capital One 360
- Want lowest fees? → Credit union or Capital One 360
- Need global transfers? → HSBC or Citibank
Step 3: Visit in Person (Recommended for First Account)
Why in person?
- Bankers can help with questions
- Faster account opening
- Can deposit cash immediately
- Get temporary debit card same day (sometimes)
Online applications often auto-reject without SSN, even if the bank accepts ITIN in person.
Step 4: Open the Account
The banker will:
- Verify your identity
- Enter your information
- Ask for your initial deposit
- Set up online/mobile banking
- Order your debit card (arrives in 7-10 days)
Time: 30-45 minutes
Step 5: Set Up Your Account
Once open:
- ✅ Download the mobile app
- ✅ Set up direct deposit (if employed)
- ✅ Link to other accounts (if needed)
- ✅ Set up alerts (low balance, large transactions)
Common Questions from Immigrants
Can I open an account on a tourist visa?
It's very difficult but possible at some banks (especially Bank of America or credit unions). You'll need:
- Valid passport
- US address (hotel, Airbnb, friend)
- ITIN (helpful but not always required)
- Larger deposit ($100+)
Will opening a bank account affect my immigration status?
No. Opening a bank account is a normal financial activity and does not:
- Impact visa applications
- Get reported to immigration authorities
- Affect green card applications
- Create any legal issues
Banks cannot share your information with immigration enforcement without a warrant.
What if I don't have a US address yet?
Some options:
- Use a friend or family member's address (with permission)
- Use your hotel or temporary housing
- Use employer's address (ask HR first)
- Use a mailbox service (UPS Store, etc.)
Can I send money back to my home country?
Yes! Options include:
- Wire transfers (expensive: $15-45 per transfer)
- Wise (formerly TransferWise) - cheapest option
- Remitly - good rates
- Western Union - widely available
- MoneyGram - convenient
- Your bank's remittance service
→ Read our guide on sending money internationally
Do I need a bank account to work in the US?
Technically no, but practically yes. Most employers require:
- Direct deposit capability
- OR a way to cash paychecks (expensive!)
Having a bank account makes everything easier.
Red Flags to Avoid
❌ Banks that:
- Require you to buy products (insurance, investments) to open account
- Charge excessive fees with no way to waive them
- Won't explain fees clearly
- Pressure you into opening accounts you don't need
- Don't provide documents in your language
✅ Choose banks that:
- Are transparent about fees
- Offer free services
- Provide multilingual support
- Are recommended by your community
Your Action Plan
This Week:
- Check if you have SSN or need ITIN
- Gather required documents
- Choose 2-3 banks from the list above
- Call branches to confirm they accept ITIN (if needed)
Next Week:
- Visit bank in person
- Open checking account (minimum)
- Consider savings account
- Set up mobile banking
This Month:
- Set up direct deposit
- Make sure fees are waived
- Start building your financial life in the US!
Keep Building Your Financial Foundation
- Opening Your First US Bank Account: Complete Guide ← Full banking guide
- How to Build Credit in America ← Next step after banking
- Sending Money Internationally: Cheapest Methods ← Save on remittances
Which bank did you choose? Share your experience in the comments to help other newcomers!
Last Updated: January 2026
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