Can foreigners open bank accounts in the U.S.? Is it really impossible without a Social Security number, or are there ways around it? How much paperwork do you actually need, and can it all be done remotely? In this guide, I’ll take you through my experience opening an American bank account as a foreigner, the exact documents I used, platforms that helped me get approved remotely, and pitfalls you should avoid.
Why most banks say no and how I got a yes
If you’ve tried applying for a U.S. bank account as a non-resident, you’ve probably faced the dreaded “we cannot open an account for you” reply. Banks in the U.S. are extremely cautious about compliance with federal regulations, anti-money laundering rules, and identity verification requirements. Many institutions simply do not have processes for non-residents or require a Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), which most foreigners don’t have.
So how did I manage to get a yes? The trick was finding banks and financial platforms that specifically accommodate foreigners. Some international banks and fintech platforms are set up for cross-border clients and accept alternative forms of identification.
I also made sure to provide a complete and organized set of documents upfront, which made the process much smoother. Patience and persistence are crucial.
The exact documents you’ll need
When opening a U.S. bank account as a foreigner, having the right documents is essential. Each bank will have slightly different requirements, but generally, you might need:
- Valid passport – This is non-negotiable; it’s your primary ID.
- Visa or ESTA – Proof of your legal entry into the U.S., even if you’re applying remotely.
- Proof of address – A utility bill, rental agreement, or even a bank statement from your home country can suffice, depending on the bank.
- ITIN or SSN (if you have one) – Optional in some banks, but having an ITIN helps.
- Additional ID – Some banks request a secondary ID, such as a driver’s license or national ID card.
Having these ready in advance will save you multiple back-and-forths with bank representatives and speed up the approval process.
My walkthrough (and what I’d do differently)
Here’s a brief overview of my experience: I started by choosing a bank that explicitly allowed non-residents. I scheduled a remote appointment and submitted my documents digitally.
What would I do differently next time? I’d prepare notarized copies of my documents beforehand. Some banks asked for notarized documents mid-process, which caused delays. I’d also double-check address requirements, as some banks were strict about U.S. addresses even for remote applications.
The platforms I used to get approved remotely
Several fintech and international banking platforms can simplify the process. Here are a few worth considering:
- Wise (formerly TransferWise) – Offers U.S. account details for foreigners, including routing and account numbers. Ideal for receiving U.S. payments.
- Revolut – Some users report success opening U.S.-based accounts remotely, especially if you already have an account in another country.
- HSBC or Citibank international branches – Traditional banks with cross-border services; sometimes easier for foreign nationals with existing accounts elsewhere.
These platforms have streamlined onboarding processes and can significantly reduce friction compared to standard U.S. banks.
Red flags to avoid during your application
While applying, keep an eye out for common red flags that could lead to rejection:
- Incomplete documentation – Even small missing details can trigger an automatic decline.
- Using an outdated or inconsistent address – Banks are strict about matching your official documents to your application.
- Applying to multiple banks simultaneously – Too many simultaneous applications can flag you as a potential fraud risk.
- Miscommunication about your residency status – Always be clear about being a non-resident; hiding it can lead to account closure later.
