Janice Lozano
International students can get credit cards, but it may be challenging due to the requirements and approval odds. The best option is to get a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), which will allow you to apply for most credit cards. If you are under 21, you'll need an adult co-signer or proof of income, such as a part-time job. Some credit card issuers provide cards exclusively for students that only require a passport, while others accept an ITIN or even a visa. International students can also build their credit history by becoming an authorized user on a trusted person's credit card or applying for secured credit cards or credit-builder loans.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Credit card options for international students | Student credit cards, secured credit cards, prepaid credit cards |
| Requirements | Social Security Number (SSN), Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), proof of identity, proof of enrolment in a US institution, visa, passport, income |
| Benefits | Building credit history, earning rewards, no annual fees, cashback, credit line increases |
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What You'll Learn
International students' eligibility for a Social Security Number (SSN)
International students facing issues opening accounts due to a lack of an SSN should consult the Office of International Students and Scholars for guidance. An SSN is not required to obtain a driver's license, cell phone, credit card, insurance, admission to an academic institution, or other "non-work" reasons. However, an SSN is essential for setting up phone, utility, or bank accounts in the US.
International students can apply for an SSN by completing the SSN application form online and then visiting their local Social Security Administration office to show their documents in person. They must bring their original documents proving their identity, age, and work-authorized immigration status (visa). They must also present proof of a job offer/employment eligibility, such as an employment verification letter from their institution. The Social Security Administration will mail the SSN and card as soon as all of the applicant's immigration information has been verified, which can take 2-4 weeks or more.
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Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) as an alternative
International students can get credit cards, but there are some challenges and limitations. While credit card applications usually require an SSN, some issuers will accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or even a visa.
An ITIN is a unique tax-processing number issued by the IRS for those who pay taxes but are not eligible for an SSN. International students who are not eligible for an SSN or who are not employed can apply for an ITIN. This can be used to apply for US financial products like bank accounts and credit cards.
Some credit card issuers provide cards exclusively for students that only require a passport for the application. This can be a good option for students who don't plan to stay in the US long-term but want to move some expenses to credit.
Another option is to become an authorized user on an existing credit card. A cardholder can add an eligible user with an ITIN to their credit account as an authorized user, without relying on the authorized user's credit score. This can be a simpler way to have access to credit without an SSN or credit history.
International students can also consider student credit cards, which are designed for college students and can help build credit with responsible use. These cards have lower barriers to entry, so students may qualify with limited or no credit history.
Overall, while getting a credit card as an international student can be challenging, there are options available such as applying with an ITIN, becoming an authorized user, or using a student credit card.
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Building a credit history as an international student
Get a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
If you're eligible, getting an SSN is a good first step. You may qualify for an SSN if you have authorization to work in the US, even if it's temporary. Students with F-1 or other student visas may also qualify for an SSN, but you may need to get authorization and have a job lined up first. A part-time on-campus job can help you achieve this, as well as increase your income, which is a factor in credit card approval. If you're under 21, you'll need an adult co-signer or proof that you can repay your debts, such as employment.
If you don't qualify for an SSN, you can apply for an ITIN through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Some credit card issuers will accept an ITIN instead of an SSN on credit card applications.
Become an Authorized User
Another option to build credit history is to become an authorized user on a trusted friend's or family member's credit card. The primary cardholder should understand that they are responsible for any debts you accrue. As an authorized user, you will receive a card with your name on it, and your expenses will be charged to the account owner. Some credit card issuers may report the payment history to credit bureaus for both the cardholder and the authorized user, helping you build a credit history.
Explore Student Credit Cards
There are credit cards specifically designed for students, which offer modest rewards on popular spending categories like dining, entertainment, and streaming services. These cards often have lower barriers to entry, and you may qualify with limited or no credit history. Student credit cards are best if you have a steady income and plan to stay in the US for a longer period.
Apply for a Secured Credit Card
A secured credit card is backed by collateral, usually a security deposit from the cardholder, which serves as the card's credit limit. This type of card can be an excellent credit-building tool over time as you establish a credit history.
Build Credit Without a Credit Card
You can also build credit without a credit card. Having a local bank account is critical to establishing your credit profile. Opening and maintaining an account demonstrates financial history and stability, and that bank is more likely to offer you credit in the future. Additionally, making regular payments on rent, utilities, and loans will help prove your financial responsibility to lenders.
Remember, building credit takes time, and the length of your overall credit history is a primary factor in achieving a higher credit score. Start building your credit history as soon as possible, use your credit card responsibly, and make payments on time to establish a solid financial foundation during your time in the US.
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Getting a part-time job to prove creditworthiness
International students can apply for a credit card, but there are some additional steps to take, and it can be difficult to get approved. One of the best ways to start building a financial profile is to get a part-time job.
Firstly, check with your college or university's international student affairs office to find out if you are eligible for an on- or off-campus job. If you are eligible for an off-campus job, you will need authorization from the Department of Homeland Security. On-campus jobs are often easier to secure, and they can still help you build your financial profile.
If you are on an F-1 or J-1 student visa and have a part-time job, you can apply for a Social Security Number (SSN). An SSN is required for credit checks and will help you get approved for a credit card. You can also apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you are not eligible for an SSN. An ITIN is a viable alternative, but you will need a "valid tax reason" for needing one, such as filing a U.S. federal tax return.
A part-time job will not only qualify you for an SSN or ITIN, but it will also prove that you can pay your credit card bill on time. This is because it demonstrates that you have a source of income, which is a big part of getting approved for a credit card. You can list your part-time income on your credit card application, and having bank statements that show regular deposits will work in your favour.
Once you have a part-time job and are building your financial profile, there are other steps you can take to get approved for a credit card. You can open a U.S. checking account, which tells a credit card company that you have monetary assets in the country. You can also put utility bills in your name if the utility company reports payments to credit bureaus.
Other ways to build your creditworthiness include charging small, manageable amounts monthly and paying them off in full, setting up autopay or reminders to never miss payments, keeping balances low, monitoring credit reports, requesting higher limits after 6-12 months of on-time payments, making consistent deposits over time, and checking your likelihood of being approved via pre-approval without impacting your credit scores.
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Becoming an authorized user on someone else's credit card
International students may face challenges in obtaining a credit card in the United States due to requirements such as having a Social Security Number (SSN) or an established credit history. One option to overcome this is to become an authorized user on someone else's credit card.
Becoming an authorized user means you can use someone else's credit card, typically with your name on it, but the account remains under the primary cardholder. The primary cardholder is responsible for any debts accrued by the authorized user and must understand this liability. While the authorized user can make purchases, they generally cannot make changes to the account, such as increasing the credit limit or adding more authorized users.
To add an authorized user, the primary cardholder typically contacts the credit card issuer, providing information such as the user's name, birthday, and Social Security Number. Some issuers may have specific requirements, such as a minimum age for the authorized user. The process is usually straightforward and quick, and the authorized user receives a card linked to the primary cardholder's account.
Becoming an authorized user on a credit card with good or excellent credit can help build or boost your credit score. Most major card issuers report authorized user data to the three main credit bureaus: Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. However, it is essential to practice good financial habits, such as not spending beyond your means and ensuring timely payments, as late or missed payments can negatively impact your credit.
While becoming an authorized user offers benefits, it is important to carefully consider the potential risks. Selecting a primary cardholder who demonstrates healthy credit habits and pays their bills on time is crucial. Additionally, adding an authorized user might come with an additional annual fee for the card. If you decide to remove an authorized user, you can typically do so by contacting the card issuer.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can get a credit card in the US, even without a Social Security Number (SSN). However, there are a few options to explore. These include getting an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), becoming an authorized user on someone else's card, or applying for a secured credit card.
International students with no credit history may be able to apply for a student credit card, which some issuers provide exclusively for students. These cards may only require your passport to submit an application. Alternatively, you can build your credit history by opening a US bank account and reporting positive account activity to credit bureaus.
Getting a credit card as an international student in the US can help build a foundation of credit history, which can be useful for taking out loans, getting a credit card, or scoring an apartment. It can also be essential for those who plan to stay in the country long-term. Additionally, some credit cards for students offer rewards for spending and no annual fees.
