How to open a US bank account as a non-resident: Full guide 2025

Need a US bank account but don’t live in the United States? Well, you might be able to open a US bank account as a non-resident by exploring non-traditional ways to do so.

For immigrants, freelancers, frequent travelers, and other people in the United States transacting in USD with businesses or other individuals, having a US bank account can make life easier. However, opening one as a non-resident isn’t always straightforward. With laws like the Patriot Act, US banks are required to verify identities more strictly. That means more paperwork and, sometimes, the need to show up in person. 

In this guide, we’ll walk you through all your options. We’ll discuss what you need, where to apply, and how to avoid the usual headaches of opening a US bank account as a non-resident.

How to open a US bank account without an SSN and ITIN

When you try to open a US bank account as a non-resident, your first roadblock would be having to provide a valid SSN or ITIN. A Social Security Number, a unique 9-digit ID number, is issued only to US citizens and eligible residents. For those without an SSN, the only other alternative would be the Individual Taxpayer Identification Number issued by the IRS to non-residents filing US taxes for any US income earned.

Most major banks in the country require either of these to verify your identity, comply with federal laws, and report financial activity to the IRS. If you don’t have either, you wouldn’t be able to proceed with your account application.

Thankfully, there are fintech platforms and modern banking apps that know banking in the US can be tough for non-citizens. Stepping up to serve non-residents in need of a US bank account, they’ve simplified the process and figured a way around the SSN requirement, offering legit ways to bank in the US—even from abroad.

If you work freelance remotely, run a global business, or are just starting in the US, we’ll show you the options in the next section.

Where can you open a US bank account as a non-resident?

As mentioned, there are ways to open a US account without an SSN or ITIN. Most neobanks make it possible to open multi-currency international accounts, while some global banking institutions allow flexible options for account opening.

Neobanks

Neobanks or digital-only banks offer probably the easiest and most convenient way to open a US-based account without having an SSN or ITIN. These modern, app-based platforms can be accessed anywhere around the globe and do not require too many documents for verification.

Some of the more popular ones include Revolut, Wise, and Payoneer.

Revolut^1,2,3

If you register a Revolut account in the United States, you also get access to a USD local account. You can use a US account number, ACH routing number, and wire routing number to manage your transactions in the country. You’ll also get a SWIFT account, which you can use for international money transfers. Since Revolut is also partnered with Lead Bank and Sutton Bank, you can set up a savings account to earn interest on your dollars.

You can register for a standard account for free. Higher plans are at $9.99 to $16.99 per month.⁴ To open a Revolut account, you only need the following:

• An email address
• A mobile phone number
• A government-issued ID
• Personal information (full name, birth date, citizenship, home address)
• A selfie

To access more services and get higher transaction limits, you may be asked to provide more details and documentation.

Wise^5,6,7,8

If you can open a Wise balance in your country, you can get USD account details, which you can use for personal or business transactions. Keep in mind, however, that this is not the same as having a US bank account. The account details merely provide a routing number that lets you receive ACH, wire, and Swift transfers in USD. The funds are transferred to your Wise USD account balance.

Opening a Wise account is free, but USD transfers can be charged anywhere from $0 to $6.11 per transaction.⁹ To open a Wise account¹⁰ , you’ll need to provide:

• Personal details (legal name, birth date, address)
• A government-issued ID
• Proof of address

Additional information and verification may be required in some cases.

Payoneer^{11,12,13,14,15}

Payoneer supports global businesses and freelancers by providing them with receiving accounts they can use to receive local bank transfers. With a Payoneer account, you can get multiple account details for the different currencies you use to transact. This means you can get paid in USD as if you were within the United States.

Opening a Payoneer account is free of charge, but receiving funds incurs charges, which are either a fixed fee or 1% of the transaction amount.¹³ To sign up for an account, you’ll need:

• A valid ID
• An email address and mobile phone number
• Details (name and address)

After signing up, Payoneer may also request additional information or documentation to verify your identity or your financial activity.

Traditional banks

You may think all banks are out of the question for non-residents. However, larger banks such as US Bank, TD Bank, Bank of America, Chase, and Wells Fargo allow non-residents to set up a checking account and a savings account. Instead of your SSN, they’ll ask for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) and other documents. As long as the necessary requirements are met, you’ll be able to set up an account with these banks.

As a non-resident, you can apply for a personal account, such as a checking or savings account.

Checking account

A checking account can be used for everyday transactions such as grocery shopping and bill paying. This type of account typically comes with different services, such as ATM withdrawals, debit cards, inter-account transfers, and more.

Savings account

A savings account, on the other hand, is for storing funds that you want to set aside for rainy days. Compared to checking accounts, they typically have higher interest rates. That means you can earn more money with the money you’ve saved up.

Other alternatives 

Since opening a traditional bank account can be challenging for non-residents, you can turn to other options, such as a multi-currency account, an international account, and a correspondent account. These alternatives might help you set up an account from your home country.

Correspondent bank accounts

Correspondent accounts leverage inter-banking relations. They make banking easier for you in countries where your home bank lacks a physical presence.

Let’s say a bank from your country has a partner bank in the US. Your bank can help you set up an account with their partner in the US. Even without a physical location in the US, your home bank can still assist you. Once set up, you can do wire transfers, deposits, and other financial transactions.

When sending money internationally, most banks use the SWIFT network, a secure system that connects banks around the world. Here’s how it generally works:

1. You set up the transfer with your local bank (called the issuing bank).
2. Instead of sending money directly overseas, your bank coordinates with a correspondent bank in the destination country.
3. The correspondent bank sends the money to the recipient’s bank (called the beneficiary bank).
4. The recipient receives the money from their local bank.

To complete the transfer, you’ll usually need the SWIFT code (a unique ID) of the recipient’s bank.

The process will also vary per country, per bank, and per branch, so you’ll need to ask your home bank about the specific process and requirements.

International bank accounts

Banks with an international presence may offer international accounts, which allow non-residents to open an account without having to be physically present in the United States.

You can open an account from your home country, so you don’t have to fly to the US to set it up beforehand. Most banks even have web services that will let you set up and manage a bank account online.

Some of the top banks with a wide international presence in the US and beyond include HSBC, Charles Schwab, and Citibank. Of the three, Citibank has the largest reach as it operates in more than 30 countries.

Here are some of the usual requirements for opening international bank accounts:

• Government-issued ID
• Valid passport
• Proof of residency
• Initial minimum deposit

Again, the requirements can vary per country and per bank. Make sure to confirm the requirements with your home bank before attempting to open an account.

Despite their advantages, these international accounts aren’t for everyone. For instance, international bank accounts often require large initial deposits, which can exceed $100,000. You’ll have monthly fees. Also, you’ll have to maintain a high minimum balance.

What banks in the USA offer bank accounts for non-residents?

Several major banks offer options tailored to international customers. Non-residents who want to open a US bank account can check out five prominent US bank accounts that offer banking services for foreigners.

HSBC^16,17,18

HSBC offers international banking services, including the ability for non-residents to open accounts. You can open a deposit account online if you are above 18 years old and live in an eligible country, including Canada, Japan, Mexico, Portugal, and many others.

To apply for a deposit account, you need to provide the following:

• Proof of identity (government-issued ID, passport, or SSN)
• Proof of address (bank statement or utility bill)
• Personal, employment, income, and tax details

Other HSBC account options for global customers are Global Money Account and Premier checking account. 

Wells Fargo^19,20,21

Wells Fargo allows non-U.S. citizens and non-permanent U.S. residents to open a checking or savings account provided they meet eligibility requirements, including:

• At least 18 years old

• SSN or ITIN

• Physical U.S. address

• Email address

• Mobile phone number

Since an SSN or ITIN and physical branch visit are required for non-U.S. citizens, this may not be a viable option for those living outside the United States.

Capital One Bank^22,23,24,25

Capital One allows almost anyone to open a savings or checking account. All you need are two valid IDs and proof of address to open an account online. However, some types of accounts require a minimum opening deposit.

Bank of America^26,27,28

Bank of America caters to foreign students and professionals who are not permanent residents of the United States. Through their Advantage Banking account, non-U.S. citizens can open a U.S. bank account even without an SSN or ITIN. The bank requires only two forms of identification, a U.S physical address, proof of permanent residence address, and a tax identification number. An ITIN is not required, and you may use the TIN issued by your home country. Interest rates for savings accounts range from 0.01% to 0.04%.²⁹

Chase Bank^31,32,33

Non-US citizens and non-US permanent residents can open Chase checking or savings accounts. However, they require personal branch visits for new account applications. To open an account, schedule an appointment at the branch nearest you after you prepare the following requirements:

• One primary and one secondary ID

• A valid U.S. phone number

• A physical U.S. address

What documents do you need to open a US bank account?³⁴

If you’re living in the US but have yet to receive resident status, you can apply for a bank account in person. Online services are usually limited to US citizens and permanent residents only.

Bank requirements can vary per branch or per state. For instance, some bank branches in New York will require you to present a utility bill, which is addressed to your name and US address. The same bank in New Jersey, however, has no such requirement.

Here are other documents that you might be required to submit when you’re opening a US bank account for non-residents:

• Valid passport

• Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

• Government-issued ID

• Proof of address (electronic bills are now accepted)

• Immigration documents

If you’re opening a bank account, you’ll be required to make an initial deposit. The minimum amount depends on your bank, but it can range anywhere from $25 to $3,000 or more.

How to apply for an ITIN

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is essentially a Social Security number for non-U.S. citizen residents. It consists of nine digits, the first of which always starts with a nine. If you’re not eligible for an SSN but need to file U.S. taxes, you can apply for an ITIN.

Here’s how to get one:

1. Gather your documents

You’ll need to download and fill out forms and prepare supporting documents. Your application should include:

• Form W-7 (Application for ITIN)

• Form 1040 or Form 1040-NR (Income Tax Return)

• Proof of identity and foreign status

• Proof of U.S residency

• Other supporting documents

2. Apply

You can submit your application and all required documents at any IRS Taxpayer Assistance Center, VITA site, or Acceptance Agent with ITIN services. You may also opt to send your application package through mail via the U.S. Postal Service or a private delivery service.

3. Wait for processing

It usually takes 7 to 11 weeks to receive your ITIN, depending on the time of year. You’ll get a notice once it’s approved or if more information is needed.

How to send money from the US overseas as a non-citizen

If you’re in the US and you want to wire money overseas, you have plenty of options aside from traditional banking services. Money transfer services such as BOSS Money are much more convenient and hassle-free.

BOSS Money can help you wire money to different countries across the globe, including Bangladesh, Brazil, Colombia, and France. Depending on the country you’re sending money to, you might be able to choose from different delivery options. That includes cash pick-up, home delivery, and mobile wallet. In some countries, you can wire money directly to a recipient’s checking and savings account.

To complete a transaction, you just have to provide your complete name, email address, residential address, and phone number to sign up. You’ll also be required to give the recipient’s full name as it’s listed on their valid ID or bank account.

You won’t have to jump through hurdles to carry out a transaction. You can set up an account without residency. You typically won’t need an SSN or an ITIN, unless your transactions exceed certain thresholds and require additional verification.

Why use BOSS Money instead of traditional banks?

• No residency requirement

• No SSN or ITIN required for most users

• Fast transfers with delivery options like bank deposit, cash pickup, mobile wallet, or even home delivery (depending on the country)

• Low fees and competitive exchange rates

• Trusted coverage in 50+ countries, including Mexico, India, Nigeria, and the Philippines

• Easy to use via mobile app or web platform

How to send money with BOSS Money

US Corporate bank accounts for foreign business owners 

Opening a corporate bank account in the U.S. is not always possible for non-residents. Most traditional banks have strict requirements that make foreign business owners ineligible. However, there are some banking institutions that are more open to non-resident applicants. These include Bank of America, Chase, Mercury, Airwallex, and Payoneer.

If you don’t have a presence in the US, you can turn to Airwallex or Payoneer services that are ideal for location-independent entrepreneurs, as they make international business easy.

For companies that have a US entity, there are services like Mercury that will help you set up a business account remotely. They offer FDIC-insured bank accounts, which come with services such as virtual cards, API access, and team management.

Bank of America^35,36

Bank of America offers corporate banking for foreign-owned businesses, but you’ll typically need to be a registered U.S. entity and have a U.S. business address. They do have Global Commercial Banking services, but these are limited to multinational companies with annual revenues ranging from $50 million to $2 billion.

Chase Bank^37,38

JP Morgan Chase is known for working with international clients. While they accept foreign-owned companies, you must usually have a U.S. entity with a valid address and a Social Security number to open a corporate account.

Mercury^39,40

Mercury is a fintech platform offering U.S. business accounts fully online—but your business must be legally registered in the U.S. You’ll also need to provide several documents, including an IRS-issued EIN, official company formation, government IDs of all founders and majority owners, and many others. The application may be stringent, but having a Mercury business account gets you access to FDIC-insured accounts, APIs for automation, and virtual and physical debit cards.

Airwallex^41,42

Airwallex offers global business accounts, borderless corporate cards, and international transfers that make it easy for international businesses to manage their growing businesses. 

Payoneer⁴³

Payoneer is best suited for freelancers, e-commerce sellers, and small businesses that work globally. Their services include U.S. receiving accounts, multi-currency balances, and integration with platforms like Amazon, Upwork, and Shopify.

Sources: all third party information obtained from applicable website as of May 11, 2025

1. https://help.revolut.com/en-US/help/transfers/inbound-transfers/how-to-receive-money-from-another-bank/what-account-details-should-i-use-to-transfer-money-to-my-revolut-account/what-account-details-are-available-for-me/
2. https://www.revolut.com/en-US/legal/savings-vaults/
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4. https://www.revolut.com/en-US/our-pricing-plans/
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6. https://wise.com/help/articles/2813542/where-can-i-open-a-wise-balance
7. https://wise.com/help/topics/OQDKGx7MTsaujfEjiZmIS/managing-your-account\
8. https://wise.com/help/articles/2827506/how-do-i-receive-money-with-my-usd-account-details
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11. https://www.payoneer.com/local-bank-account/
12. https://www.payoneer.com/freelancer/
13. https://www.payoneer.com/about/pricing/
14. https://payoneer.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/18786/
15. https://payoneer.custhelp.com/app/answers/detail/a_id/30809/
16. https://www.us.hsbc.com/account-opening/frequently-asked-questions/#deposit-account
17. https://www.us.hsbc.com/checking-accounts/products/premier/
18. https://www.us.hsbc.com/checking-accounts/products/global-money/
19. https://www.wellsfargo.com/help/checking-savings/open-close-account-faqs/
20. https://www.wellsfargo.com/checking/everyday/identification-required-to-open/
21. https://www.wellsfargo.com/help/online-banking/
22. https://www.capitalone.com/bank/money-management/banking-basics/how-to-open-a-checking-account/
23. https://www.capitalone.com/bank/money-management/banking-basics/opening-a-bank-account-online/
24. https://www.capitalone.com/bank/open-an-account/
25. https://www.capitalone.com/bank/ways-to-bank/
26. https://info.bankofamerica.com/en/international/professional-bank-account
27. https://info.bankofamerica.com/en/international/us-bank-account-non-residents
28. https://www.bankofamerica.com/deposits/bank-accounts/
29. https://www.bankofamerica.com/deposits/savings/savings-accounts/
30. https://www.bankofamerica.com/deposits/savings/savings-accounts/
31. https://personal.chase.com/personal/savings
32. https://www.chase.com/personal/branch-disclosures
33. https://www.chase.com/content/dam/chase-ux/documents/personal/checking/acceptable-forms-of-identification.pdf
34. https://www.irs.gov/tin/itin/how-to-apply-for-an-itin
35. https://business.bofa.com/content/boaml/en_us/home.html
36. https://business.bofa.com/en-us/content/global-commercial-banking.html
37. https://www.chase.com/business/banking/savings/business-savings
38. https://secure.chase.com/web/oao/application/business?productCode=&subProductCode=&cfgCode=010421&version=react#/origination/gettingStarted/gettingStarted/initiate
39. https://mercury.com/
40. https://mercury.com/bank-accounts
41. https://www.airwallex.com/business-account
42. https://help.airwallex.com/hc/en-gb/articles/900001757026-Who-can-open-an-account-with-Airwallex
43. https://www.payoneer.com/

This article is provided for general information purposes only and is not intended to address every aspect of the matters discussed herein. The information in this article is not intended as specific personal advice. The information in this article does not constitute legal, tax, regulatory or other professional advice from IDT Payment Services, Inc. and its affiliates (collectively, “IDT”), and should not be taken or used as such by any individual. IDT makes no representation, warranty or guaranty, whether express or implied, that the content in this article is current, accurate, or complete. You should obtain professional or other substantive advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the information in this article.