International Students: Apple Card Application Eligibility

International students seeking to apply for an Apple Card face several requirements and eligibility conditions. While some sources indicate that international students can obtain an Apple Card with a Social Security Number (SSN) and a US address, others suggest that only US citizens or lawful residents are eligible. To apply for an Apple Card, individuals must meet specific criteria, including age, residency, device compatibility, and identity verification. Additionally, applicants should consider the potential impact on their credit score and the possibility of approval without a US driver's license or state ID.

International students need a Social Security Number to apply for an Apple Card

International students face several challenges when applying for an Apple Card. Firstly, Apple Card eligibility requirements mandate applicants to be US citizens or lawful residents with a valid US address. International students, even those with visas or green cards, often do not meet these basic criteria.

Secondly, Apple Card applications require a Social Security Number (SSN), which international students typically do not possess. While green card holders are eligible for SSNs, they must obtain one before becoming eligible for an Apple Card. This requirement poses a significant obstacle for international students who do not have an SSN.

Additionally, a credit history is essential for the approval of an Apple Card application. Goldman Sachs, the issuer of the Apple Card, reviews applicants' credit history and requires a steady income. International students may struggle to meet these criteria due to their temporary residency status and potential lack of established credit history in the US.

To overcome these challenges, international students can consider alternative credit cards that do not require an SSN or extensive credit history. Building a credit score through other means, such as secured credit cards or postpaid cellular service plans, can also improve their chances of qualifying for an Apple Card in the future.

It is worth noting that Apple Card's eligibility criteria appear more relaxed than those of many major credit card companies, suggesting an immigrant-friendly approach. However, the lack of a Social Security Number remains a critical factor that prevents international students from successfully applying for an Apple Card.

International students must be US citizens or lawful residents to apply

International students who want to apply for an Apple Card face several requirements and restrictions. Firstly, it is essential to understand that Apple Card applications are only eligible for applicants who are "U.S. citizens or lawful U.S. residents." This immediately creates a barrier for international students who do not meet this criterion.

However, some international students have reported getting approved for the Apple Card. These students have shared their experiences and provided insights into the process. One key requirement is having a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Additionally, building a credit history is crucial, as Goldman Sachs, the issuer of the Apple Card, will review the applicant's creditworthiness. This means that international students need to have a steady income to build their credit score.

Another critical requirement for international students is having a valid, physical U.S. address that is not a P.O. Box. A military address is also acceptable. This address requirement is strictly enforced, and applicants without a qualifying U.S. address are unlikely to be approved. Additionally, some form of identification, such as a driver's license or a state-issued photo ID, may be required for verification purposes.

International students must also ensure that their devices are compatible with Apple Pay and have the latest version of iOS, watchOS, or macOS. They should sign in to their devices using their Apple ID and enable two-factor authentication. It is worth noting that a freeze on one's credit report may need to be temporarily lifted during the application process.

While some international students have successfully obtained an Apple Card, the eligibility requirements pose challenges for those without U.S. citizenship or lawful resident status. It is important to carefully review the eligibility criteria and consult official sources, such as Apple Support, for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

International students need a US address to apply for an Apple Card

International students face several challenges when applying for an Apple Card. Firstly, they need to meet the eligibility criteria set by Goldman Sachs, the issuer of the Apple Card. This includes having a Social Security number, a steady income, and a credit history. For international students without an annual income or with limited credit history, this can be a significant hurdle.

Additionally, international students must provide a valid US address during the application process. Apple and Goldman Sachs have strict requirements for the type of address that is acceptable. It must be a physical US address, and P.O. boxes are generally not permitted. However, applicants can use a military address if they have one. This requirement poses a challenge for international students who may not have a permanent US address or who are residing on campus or with a host family.

To overcome this obstacle, some international students have reported success by providing an address in Puerto Rico or using a friend's referral to apply for a secured credit card first and then applying for the Apple Card. However, these workarounds may not always be feasible or recommended, as they could potentially involve providing false information or relying on unconventional methods that may not work for everyone.

It is worth noting that the application process also includes identity verification. While a driver's license or state-issued photo ID is not always required, Goldman Sachs may request it in some cases. International students without a US driver's license or state ID may need to explore alternative forms of identification that are accepted by Goldman Sachs to complete the application process successfully.

Lastly, international students should be aware that their physical location may impact their application. Some sources indicate that the application must be completed while physically present in the US, and using a VPN to circumvent this requirement will not work. Therefore, international students studying outside the US may face additional challenges in applying for an Apple Card.

International students need a credit history to be approved for an Apple Card

International students in the US can find it challenging to obtain an Apple Card due to the eligibility criteria and the requirement for a credit history. While Apple Card's criteria appear more relaxed than those of other credit cards, a credit history is still necessary for approval.

To be approved for an Apple Card, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being 18 years or older and having a US residential address, LPR status, and a Social Security Number (SSN). International students without a credit history will likely need to build one before applying for an Apple Card. This process can take time and requires certain financial activities, such as obtaining a local bank account, taking out a loan, or paying utility bills.

Having a Social Security Number (SSN) is not mandatory for building a credit history in the US, but it simplifies the process. International students with work authorization in the US will be assigned an SSN, which can facilitate their credit-building journey. However, those without an SSN can still take steps to establish a credit profile, such as opening a local bank account and consistently paying utility bills on time.

Additionally, international students can explore other credit-building options, such as taking out a loan with Prodigy Finance, which reports repayments to Experian in the US and TransUnion in the UK. Building a solid credit history is essential for international students seeking to secure loans or mortgages independently in the future. Without a good credit history, they may need a co-signer or pay additional fees.

In summary, international students in the US need to focus on building a credit history to increase their chances of being approved for an Apple Card. While the exact requirements may vary, establishing financial credibility through consistent income, timely bill payments, and responsible financial behaviour is crucial for achieving a favourable credit score.

International students can apply for an Apple Card online

International students will need to provide a Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number and set up two-factor authentication for their Apple ID. Additionally, they must own a compatible iPhone or iPad with the latest iOS version to use Apple Card with their device.

To build a credit history, international students can consider getting a secured credit card or a postpaid cell phone account, as these contribute to an individual's credit score. A credit history is essential for Goldman Sachs' review process when approving Apple Card applications.

It is important to note that Apple Card eligibility is subject to credit approval and general requirements. International students should carefully review all the requirements and ensure they meet the necessary criteria before submitting their application.

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