Ibrahim Gardner
International students face several challenges when applying for their first credit card in the US. While it is not impossible, it can be difficult. International students often lack the necessary paperwork, such as an SSN or proof of address, and have no local credit history, which makes it harder to get approved. However, there are a few options available for international students to get a credit card. These include applying for a secured credit card, becoming an authorized user on someone else's account, or building credit through other means, such as taking on a part-time job or opening a checking account at a US bank. Additionally, international students can also explore specialist credit cards for international students, which have a lower barrier to entry and do not require an SSN or credit check.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Difficulty getting approved for a credit card | High |
| Options for getting a credit card | Get a specialist credit card for international students, which doesn't need an SSN; Get a secured credit card; Become an additional card holder on a US family member’s account; Use a credit card from back home |
| Options for building credit history | Get a part-time, visa-approved job; Sign a lease with a roommate; Put utility bills in their name; Open a checking account at a U.S. bank; Get a secured card |
| Options for getting an SSN | Apply for a job on- or off-campus; Apply for an ITIN |
| Options for getting an ITIN | Apply for a tax identification number from the IRS |
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What You'll Learn
International students can get a credit card without an SSN
International students can get a credit card in the US without a Social Security Number (SSN). A Social Security Number is a unique nine-digit identification number issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to US citizens, permanent residents, and temporary residents. An SSN is commonly used as a form of ID when opening a bank account, getting a credit card, or opening other types of official accounts.
However, international students can apply for a credit card in their own name using an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Most international students can apply for an ITIN from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) if they are not eligible for an SSN. Capital One, for example, accepts ITINs for most of its credit cards. Citi and Discover are also card issuers that allow applicants to enter an ITIN in place of an SSN.
Some lenders, like Deserve® EDU and Bank of America, may issue a student card based on your passport. Other card issuers may also accept a passport as an alternative to an SSN. Students can also apply for credit-builder loans or secured credit cards, which are known to have less stringent requirements.
Additionally, international students can become an additional cardholder on a US family member's or friend's account.
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International students can build credit history
International students can and should start building their credit history in the US as early as possible. Credit history plays a significant role in establishing oneself financially in the country. Without a credit history in the US, it will be exceptionally difficult to rent an apartment, buy a car, or even get a job.
There are several ways international students can build their credit history:
- Get a credit card: Using a credit card responsibly is a simple way to build and maintain a good credit score. International student credit cards have a much lower barrier to entry than a typical credit card. Student credit cards do not require a credit check and can be obtained without a Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. However, it can be difficult to find a company that will allow international students to open a credit card, especially without a credit history. One option is to become an authorized user on someone else's account. Alternatively, international students can apply for a secured credit card, which is backed by collateral, usually a security deposit from the cardholder. This deposit often serves as the card's credit limit. The Firstcard® Secured Credit Builder Card with Cashback is an example of a secured card that offers excellent benefits to students.
- Get a part-time, visa-approved job: If a student qualifies for a job according to their visa, a part-time job will qualify them for an SSN or ITIN and prove they can pay their credit card bills on time.
- Sign a lease with a roommate: Some landlords may be willing to accept tenants with no credit if they sign with roommates who have a good credit history. If the landlord or rental company reports rent activity to a credit bureau, this shows that the student is responsible and lives locally.
- Put utility bills in your name: If a utility company reports payments to credit bureaus, international students can put utility bills in their name to start building a responsible financial history.
- Open a checking account at a US bank: A checking account 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.
It is important to note that building credit takes time and requires having some finances to manage. Additionally, while it is useful to have a US bank account as an international student, this will not impact your US credit score.
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International student identity cards
The International Student Identity Card (ISIC) is the only internationally accepted proof of student status. It was first created by students in 1953 and has been endorsed by UNESCO since 1968. The card is now issued to 5 million students, teachers, and pupils annually in over 130 countries/territories worldwide. The ISIC card provides student status verification, thousands of discounts worldwide, and access to the global student community.
The ISIC card has been endorsed by UNESCO since 1968 and is endorsed by a wide range of national governments, ministries of education and tourism, student organizations, and universities worldwide. The ISIC Association is a non-profit organization that aims to support students globally by making their student lives easier, more affordable, and more enjoyable.
The ISIC mobile app provides access to a digital student card and allows users to explore and redeem thousands of ISIC offers and services available worldwide. The app also helps users discover discounts in their area, get the latest news, and access limited vouchers.
If you are 30 years old or younger, you are eligible for the International Youth Travel card (IYTC), which offers similar benefits and discounts as the ISIC card. Full-time teachers or professors can enjoy teacher discounts with the International Teacher Identity Card (ITIC), which is also internationally recognized and offers numerous savings at home and abroad.
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International students can get a credit card with an ITIN
International students can get a credit card in the US, but it can be challenging. One of the biggest hurdles is that most credit card applications require a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). If an international student is not eligible for an SSN, they can apply for an ITIN. However, this process can take up to seven weeks for approval.
Another challenge is that most credit card companies will also check an applicant's credit history, which international students may not have yet. To build a credit history, international students can consider getting a part-time job, signing a lease with a roommate, or putting utility bills in their name. Additionally, they can open a checking account at a US bank and consider getting a secured credit card, which can help build credit over time.
Once an international student has an ITIN and has started building their credit history, they can apply for a credit card. Some credit card issuers that accept ITINs in place of SSNs include Amex, Citi, Chase, and Bank of America. It is important to check the eligibility criteria for each card and be aware of any additional requirements, such as proof of income or a co-signer if the applicant is under 21.
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International students can get a credit card by becoming an authorised user
International students can face several challenges when applying for their first credit card in a new country. One of the most common issues is not having a Social Security number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Another is not having a credit history in the country they are applying in. Credit card companies typically review an applicant's credit history when evaluating applications, and if an international student has just moved to the country, they may not have had time to build one yet.
One way to get around this is to become an authorised user on someone else's credit card account. This can be a trusted friend or family member who is willing to add the student to their account. This option precludes the need for an SSN or ITIN with some banks. It is a useful workaround for getting access to credit if an international student cannot qualify for a traditional credit card on their own.
However, it is important to note that the primary cardholder is financially responsible for all authorised user purchases. If the authorised user and the primary cardholder use the account responsibly, it can help both people build good credit. But if the authorised user accrues debt, the primary cardholder is responsible for paying it off. Additionally, not all credit card issuers report authorised user activity to credit bureaus, so it may not help build credit. It is wise to call the number on the back of the card to check.
Before applying for their first credit card, international students should start building a financial profile. They can do this by speaking with the international student affairs office at their educational institution. The office can inform students of their eligibility to get an on- or off-campus job, which in turn determines their eligibility to apply for an SSN. If an individual is not eligible for an SSN, they can apply for an ITIN. It is also possible to build credit by getting a part-time, visa-approved job, signing a lease with a roommate, or putting utility bills in their name.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, international students can get a credit card, but it can be difficult. International students often have little to no credit history, which makes it hard to get approved. However, there are credit cards designed for international students, which have a lower barrier to entry.
You will likely need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) or a Social Security Number (SSN). If you are not eligible for an SSN, you may be able to apply for an ITIN. You will also need a U.S. address.
Discover offers two credit cards aimed at students: the Student Cash Back card and the Chrome for Students card. The Firstcard® Secured Credit Builder Card with Cashback is another option for students with average or limited credit scores.
You could get a debit card, which is generally accepted at most stores that take credit cards. You could also use a credit card from your home country for emergencies. Alternatively, you can become an authorized user on someone else's credit card.
