Can I open a US bank account without a US address?
Yes, a foreigner can open a bank account in the US without needing a US address. However, not all banking institutions allow for it. Even traditional banks that do offer accounts to non-residents often have requirements – like opening the account in person – that make it difficult for non-residents to apply.
- Valid passport.
- Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
- Government-issued ID.
- Immigration documents.
Requirements may vary depending on the state or financial institution. Whether you're a U.S. citizen or non-U.S. citizen, you typically must be at least 18 years old to set up a checking or savings account and typically must have a U.S. address.
To open a checking account, you must provide government-issued identification with your photo, your Social Security card or Taxpayer Identification Number, and proof of your address. However, some special account types may require additional information.
For all bank accounts:
You must provide proof of address, such as a utility bill or financial statement.
- SoFi.
- HSBC.
- Chase.
- Capital One.
- Bank of America.
- Wells Fargo.
- Charles Schwab.
For individuals without a permanent address, posted mail with your name is your best option. Check to see if you have utility or phone bills. If you don't have a physical address, there are other banking options that allow you to use a P.O. box.
Some banks will ask you to provide evidence of both a US and foreign address in order to open an account. Others may be more lenient. The documentation you'll need to open an account in the US will vary from bank to bank, and could be different depending on if you apply in person or online.
Some online banks offer a current account where you do not need proof of address. You could look for a free account from an online bank such as: Monzo: Monzo account. Starling: Current account.
Virtual addresses usually work fine when opening a business bank account using the technique mentioned above. Unfortunately, this isn't the case for personal savings and checking accounts. If you want to create a personal account, you must submit a residential address for verification.
Can a non resident open a US bank account?
Frequently asked questions (FAQs) Can a non-citizen open a U.S. bank account? Yes, a non-citizen can open a U.S. bank account, but many financial institutions don't allow it.
Your Social Security number. A valid, government-issued photo ID like a driver's license, passport or state or military ID. A minimum opening deposit of $25 to activate your account (once you've been approved).
Although PO boxes were designed with a specific purpose in mind, managing mail and packages while protecting your privacy, you cannot use one when opening a business bank account. Since a PO Box is a standalone lockable mailbox located within a post office, it is not considered a physical address.
Proof of address is a document that serves as a verification of your current place of residence, typically required by banks as a security measure.
U.S. utility bill (must include your name and address) U.S. insurance policy (in effect for more than three years) Rent receipt, from building owner or management, showing applicant's name and address. Property tax receipt.
You are not required to have a social security number to open a checking or savings account. To open a checking or savings account, the bank or credit union will need to verify your name, date of birth, address, and ID number.
- Bank of America.
- Chase.
- Wells Fargo.
- Marcus by Goldman Sachs.
- Self-Help Federal Credit Union.
- Latino Credit Union.
You must be living in the U.S. to open your account. You'll need to provide both a foreign and U.S. address, as well as two forms of ID and a tax identification number.
Account | Approximate time to complete application |
---|---|
Varo Bank Account: Best for Cash Advances | 2 to 3 minutes |
SoFi Checking and Savings Account: Best for Member Perks | 1 to 3 minutes |
Wise: Best for Non-Residents | 1 to 3 minutes |
Chime® Checking Account: Best for Bad Credit | 3 to 4 minutes |
- Wells Fargo. Account: Everyday Checking. Monthly fee: $10. ...
- Citibank. Account: Access Account Package. Monthly fee: $10. ...
- JPMorgan Chase. Account: Chase Total Checking. Monthly fee: $12. ...
- Bank of America. Account: Advantage Banking. Monthly fee: $4.95.
Can I use a bank statement as proof of address to open a bank account?
What can be used as proof of address? Here are some of the most common documents that count as valid proof of address: Bank statement. Utility bill for gas, electricity, water, internet, etc.
Many banks require you to bring a U.S. ID and social security number (SSN) to open an account. However, there are banks that let you use alternative forms of ID to open an account if you're not a U.S. citizen. Juntos Avanzamos-designated credit unions provide services for immigrants and non-citizens.
In order to receive reimbursem*nt of fees and other benefits on your checking account, you may need to meet a minimum monthly balance or other requirements. For many of these banks, you will need to maintain a valid U.S. mailing address and phone number while living overseas.
No, it's not illegal for a U.S. citizen to have a foreign bank account. However, it is essential to ensure all IRS and compliance requirements are met, including the disclosure of such accounts.
Acceptable Forms of ID for Banks
Most banks request two forms of government issued ID. Financial institutions that require two forms of ID may want at least one of the IDs to be a photo ID. This can include photos on a Passport or Driver's license.