Janice Lozano
International students in the US often face challenges when it comes to accessing credit cards due to the requirement of having a Social Security Number (SSN). However, there are indeed options available for international students who don't have an SSN. Some credit card issuers offer alternatives, such as using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or even a passport. Additionally, certain cards like Zolve and Deserve Edu Mastercard are tailored for international students and don't require an SSN. Building a good credit history is important for future financial endeavours, and international students can take advantage of student credit cards to achieve this.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Credit cards that don't require SSN | Zolve (Classic, Signature, Black), Deserve Edu Mastercard, Discover (Student Cash Back card, Chrome for Students card), Citi, American Express, Capital One |
| Alternative to SSN | Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), Passport, Student Visa |
| Other options | Specialist credit card for international students, become an additional cardholder on a US family member's account, use a credit card from your home country |
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What You'll Learn
Specialist credit cards for international students
International students in the US can face challenges when it comes to accessing credit cards. A Social Security Number (SSN) is typically required when applying for a credit card in the United States, but international students may struggle to obtain one. However, there are several options available for international students seeking a credit card without an SSN.
Some credit card companies offer specialist cards designed specifically for international students, which do not require an SSN. Zolve, for example, offers credit cards with high cashback rewards and a straightforward application process that does not require an SSN.
Using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
An ITIN is an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. If you are ineligible for an SSN, you may still be able to apply for an ITIN from the IRS (Internal Revenue Service). This number can be used in place of an SSN when applying for a credit card. Many international students are eligible for an ITIN, and some credit card issuers, such as Capital One, Discover, Citi, and American Express, accept ITINs for most of their credit cards.
Using a passport
A few lenders, like Deserve® EDU and Bank of America, may issue a student card based on your passport.
Other options
International students can also consider the following options:
- Using a secured credit card, paying bills on time, and increasing income can help build a credit score, which may lead to broader access to other credit options.
- American Express and Discover may take into account international credit history from a range of countries, which can be helpful when applying for a credit card.
- Check with your university to see if they are in partnership with any credit card companies that you can apply to easily.
- Become an additional cardholder on a US family member or friend's account.
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Becoming an additional cardholder on a US family member's account
International students can get a credit card without an SSN by using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Some credit card issuers also accept a passport as an alternative to an SSN. International students who are eligible for an SSN can easily access most credit cards if they can prove that they have the income to make monthly repayments.
If you are an international student without an SSN, another option is to become an additional cardholder on a US family member's account. An additional cardholder is another user on the primary cardholder's account. The primary cardholder remains responsible for all purchases made on both their card and the additional cardholder's card. The additional cardholder must be over the age of 13 and should never have defaulted on an account. The primary cardholder will need the additional cardholder's legal name, address, and date of birth to add them to their account. While American Express requires the additional cardholder's Social Security Number, there is a 60-day window after the card is issued to provide this. If the Social Security Number is not provided within this period, the additional cardholder's card will be canceled.
The additional card member can use the American Express App with their own login. They will receive the same card as the primary cardholder, except for the Platinum Card, Centurion Card, and Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card, which have alternative options. The additional card member can only access the account's total balance and not the card number, transactions, or limit controls unless the primary cardholder gives them access as an Account Manager. The additional card member builds only a positive credit history based on the credit behavior of the primary card member. If the primary cardholder becomes delinquent, American Express will discontinue reporting on the additional card member's card to retain a positive history.
Before adding an authorized user, the primary cardholder should consider the benefits and potential drawbacks. While it will help the additional cardholder build credit, disagreements over spending could lead to a strained relationship. The primary cardholder may also be able to place a spending limit on the additional cardholder's card.
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Using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) is a 9-digit number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to individuals who need a US taxpayer identification number for federal tax purposes but are not eligible for an SSN. ITINs are issued by the IRS specifically for federal tax purposes and paying federal taxes.
To be eligible for an ITIN, you must have a valid tax reason for needing one. You can apply for an ITIN by mail or in person. The process involves filling out Form W-7, Application for IRS Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), and submitting it with your federal income tax return. Along with the application, you must provide a certification letter, a copy of your identity document, proof of foreign nationality status, residency, and a copy of Form I-20. You can find all the relevant forms and details on the IRS government website.
ITINs can be used in place of an SSN in some cases, including when applying for a credit card. Some credit card issuers, such as Citi and Capital One, accept ITINs for most of their credit cards. This allows international students who are not eligible for an SSN to apply for a credit card in their own name using an ITIN.
It is important to note that while ITINs can be used for tax purposes and certain other situations, they are not a substitute for an SSN in all cases.
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Using a passport or I-20 form
International students can get a credit card without an SSN by using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead. Some credit card issuers also accept a passport as an alternative to an SSN.
International students can open a US bank account, sign up for a prepaid card, or become an authorized user on someone else's card. A checking account at a US bank tells a credit card company that the applicant has monetary assets in the country. It may also be easier to apply for a credit card later with the same bank.
To open a bank account, you will typically need a passport or other form of identification, proof of address, and a form of income verification. If you are renting a property, you will need to pay utility bills, so why not build credit while doing it? Set up monthly transfers from your bank account toward your rent, expenses, and utilities to ensure they are always paid on time. Making regular payments on all your utilities is another way to prove to lenders that you are responsible with your payments and will be a suitable applicant for a loan or credit option.
Some card issuers, like Deserve® EDU and Bank of America, may issue a student card based on your passport. You can also use your credit card from your home country, but it may come with high fees, and you would not be able to build credit in the US.
If you are an F-1 or M-1 student, you will need to provide Form I-20, a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status, along with your passport.
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Building credit history
International students in the US can build their credit history in several ways, even without a Social Security Number (SSN). While an SSN makes the process easier, it is not necessary to have one to build credit. Here are some ways international students can build their credit history:
Get a Credit Card
One of the easiest ways to build credit as a new international student in the US is to obtain a credit card and use it responsibly. Some credit card companies cater specifically to international students and may not require an SSN. For example, American Express may consider your local credit history from your home country. Discover and Citi also offer credit cards to international students, allowing them to use their Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of an SSN. Capital One also accepts ITINs for most of its credit cards.
Make Regular Payments
Once you have obtained a credit card, it is essential to make your payments on time. Enrolling in automatic bill payments can help ensure you never miss a payment, which can negatively impact your credit score. Using your credit card for daily purchases and paying off the charges each month or week demonstrates financial stability and responsible behaviour.
Build a Banking Relationship
Opening and maintaining a local bank account is critical to establishing your credit profile in the US. Building a relationship with a financial institution can increase your chances of securing a credit card or loan in the future. It demonstrates financial stability, and the bank is more likely to offer you credit if they can see your income and transaction history.
Pay Utility Bills on Time
If you are renting a property, you will have utility bills such as gas, electric, phone, and internet. Paying these bills on time can help build your credit history. Set up monthly transfers from your bank account to ensure timely payments. Making regular payments on your utilities proves to lenders that you are responsible and can improve your chances of obtaining credit or a loan.
Student Loans
Repaying student loans can also help build your credit history. If you have taken out a Prodigy Finance loan, for example, ensure that you make regular repayments. Prodigy Finance reports loan repayments to Experian in the United States and TransUnion in the United Kingdom, which can help establish your creditworthiness.
Rent Reporting
Rent reporting can also impact your credit score. Make sure to pay your monthly rent on time, as this demonstrates financial responsibility. After a few months of timely payments, your financial institution will report your activity to US credit reporting agencies, and you will start to build a positive credit history.
Building credit as an international student in the US requires time and financial management skills. By following these steps and maintaining good financial habits, you can establish a solid credit history, which will make it easier to access various financial products and services in the future.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can apply for credit without an SSN. However, they may need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a passport.
Some credit cards that international students can apply for without an SSN include:
- Zolve Classic
- Zolve Signature
- Zolve Black
- Deserve Edu Mastercard
- Bank of America Travel Rewards Card
- Citi
- Discover it® Secured
- Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards Credit Card
- American Express
The eligibility requirements vary by issuer but generally include proof of identity, proof of enrollment in a US institution, and sometimes an ITIN.
Applications for these credit cards can typically be completed online. For cards like Zolve, you can apply using your passport or I-20 form.
Benefits of having a credit card as an international student include building a credit history, managing expenses, earning rewards, and having a financial safety net for emergencies.
