A US bank account can be useful even for a tourist, simplifying payment for purchases, car rentals, and other financial transactions. However, for foreigners, especially those without a residency permit, opening an account at an American bank is not so straightforward. Some banks only work with residents, while others require a substantial package of documents.
In this article, we will analyze whether a tourist can open a bank account, what documents will be needed, how to choose a suitable bank, and what difficulties may arise. We will also provide tips to help you successfully navigate this process.
Can a Tourist Open a Bank Account in the USA?
American banks do not prohibit foreigners from opening accounts, but each financial institution sets its own rules. Some are willing to work with non-residents, while others require proof of a US address. Tourist status also plays a role — many banks prefer to work with those who have a long-term visa or a residency permit.
Most major banks, such as Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo, allow foreigners to open accounts. However, the conditions may vary. For example, at one branch, an employee may be willing to help a non-resident, while at another, they may say it's impossible without a local address.
Some banks require a Social Security number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), which not every tourist has. Others may accept a passport and visa in place of these documents but will ask for additional proof of solvency, such as a statement from a foreign bank or a letter from your employer.
There are also alternative options. Some online banks allow you to open an account without visiting a branch, but they most often require an American address. Other solutions are offered by international financial companies that issue accounts and cards for non-residents.
Ultimately, much depends on the specific bank, city, and even branch. In one situation, a tourist may be able to open an account with just their passport, while in another, they may be refused without a local address. Therefore, before visiting a bank, it is worth clarifying the conditions and preparing the necessary documents.
What Documents Are Needed to Open an Account?
American banks request a standard set of documents, but the exact list depends on the specific institution. One bank may open an account with just a passport, while another will ask for additional papers.
Main Documents:
- International Passport — confirms identity.
- Visa or Entry Stamp — proves legal presence in the USA.
- Second Document of Choice — driver's license, national passport, resident card from another country, or other identification.
Additional Requirements:
- US Address. Some banks accept a hotel address or a letter from acquaintances, but most require a lease agreement or a utility bill.
- ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number). If you don't have one, some banks will accept your international passport and visa, but the conditions vary.
- Statement from a Foreign Bank Account or Employment Verification Letter — confirms financial stability.
In rare cases, a letter of recommendation from a bank in your country of residence may be requested. This document is not always mandatory, but having it increases the chances of successfully opening an account.
It is best to clarify the list of required documents with the bank in advance of your visit. Even within the same bank, requirements may differ depending on the branch and the employee.
Which Type of Account to Choose
Banks in the USA offer several types of accounts, but not all are suitable for tourists. Before opening an account, it's important to understand which options are available to non-residents and what their differences are.
Main Types of Accounts:
- Checking Account — suitable for everyday transactions. Allows you to withdraw money, pay for purchases with a card, and transfer funds. Many banks issue a debit card immediately after opening the account. However, a maintenance fee may be charged if the account balance is insufficient.
- Savings Account — used for storing money. Allows you to earn a small interest on the balance but is not intended for frequent spending. Some banks only allow transfers from this account a few times per month.
- Business Account — needed for entrepreneurs and companies. This option is not available to a tourist without a registered business in the USA.
For everyday transactions, a checking account is the best fit. It provides full access to your money, allows you to pay for purchases with a card, and use online banking. If the goal is simply to store funds, you can open a savings account, but then the possibilities for withdrawing and transferring money will be limited.
Some banks offer combined accounts that include the features of both checking and savings accounts. These options are convenient if you need access to your money but also want to earn interest on the balance.
The choice depends on your goals. If the account is needed for paying for purchases and making transfers, a checking account is the optimal option. If you only plan to store money, you can consider a savings account. Before opening an account, it is worth clarifying the conditions with the bank, as fees and limits may vary.
The Account Opening Process
It is easiest for a tourist to open an account at a bank branch. Online applications are not available at all banks, and even if such an option exists, a local address or Social Security number (SSN) is often required.
How to Open an Account at a Branch:
- 01.Choosing a Bank. Conditions for foreigners can vary between different banks. It is best to study the information on the official website or call a branch in advance.
- 02.Preparing Documents. The minimum set is an international passport and visa. Some banks require a second document, proof of a US address, or an ITIN tax identification number.
- 03.Making an Appointment (if necessary). At major banks, you can usually walk in without an appointment, but in some cases, it is better to arrange a meeting in advance.
- 04.Filling out the Application Form. An employee will ask you to provide personal information, address, and contact details. The questions may differ depending on the bank.
- 05.Signing the Agreement. After verifying the documents, the bank will draw up an agreement with the client. Some banks immediately provide account details, and the card is sent by mail. Others allow you to receive the card on the day of application.
- 06.Funding the Account. Some banks require an initial deposit; the minimum amount depends on the specific bank's terms.
Can I Open an Account Online?
Some banks allow you to apply remotely, but they often require a US address and an SSN or ITIN. If you do not have this information, you will most likely have to visit a branch. Online banks, such as Wise or Revolut, may offer alternative options, but their accounts are not always accepted by American companies as full-fledged bank accounts.
The account opening process takes from 30 minutes to several hours. In rare cases, the bank may request additional verification, which means the account will not be activated immediately. To avoid refusal, it is best to clarify the list of requirements in advance and prepare all the documents.
The Largest Banks in the U.S.: the Leaders of the Financial Sector
What Difficulties May Arise?
American banks set their own rules for foreign clients. At one branch, a tourist may be able to open an account without unnecessary questions, while at another, they may be refused even if the documents are in order. To avoid unpleasant situations, it is worth finding out about potential difficulties in advance.
- Requirement of a US Address
Some banks do not open accounts without proof of residence in the USA. They may request a lease agreement, a utility bill, or a letter from the host. A hotel address is rarely accepted, but smaller branches may make an exception. - Refusal Without Explanation
Bank employees do not always clearly state the requirements. If a cashier or manager is unsure, they may simply refuse to open an account without explaining the reason. In such cases, it is worth trying to contact another branch or speak to a different employee. - Request for SSN or ITIN
Some banks require a Social Security number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). Without them, opening an account is more difficult, but not impossible. If one branch insists on these documents, it is worth trying another – the bank's policy is not always the same in all offices. - Minimum Deposit
An initial deposit may be required to open an account. Depending on the bank, the amount varies from $25 to $500. If the money is not deposited immediately, the account will not be activated. - Lengthy Document Verification
Sometimes, the bank sends documents for additional verification, which delays the process. In such cases, the card and account details may not be issued immediately but after a few days. - Fees and Restrictions
Some banks introduce mandatory conditions: maintaining a minimum balance, monthly service fees, or transfer fees. If these are not taken into account, you may encounter unexpected charges.
Thorough preparation will help avoid difficulties. Before visiting a bank, it is worth checking the list of requirements, gathering all the documents, and clarifying the details at several branches.
Tips for Successfully Opening an Account
American banks are not always eager to work with tourists, but opening an account is still possible. To increase your chances of successful registration, it is important to prepare in advance and consider the specifics of the US banking system.
1. Choose Banks That Work with Non-Residents
Not all financial institutions are willing to serve tourists. Before visiting, it is worth studying the banks' websites and reading reviews. Most often, accounts for foreigners are opened at Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank. Different branches may have different requirements, so it is best to clarify the details in advance.
2. Prepare a Complete Package of Documents
The more documents you can provide, the higher the likelihood of a positive decision. The minimum set is an international passport and visa. Additionally, the following may be required:
- A second document (national passport, driver's license, etc.);
- Proof of address (lease agreement, letter from the host, bank statement with a US address);
- ITIN tax identification number (if available);
- Statement from an account in a foreign bank.
Even if the bank does not require all of these documents, it is better to have them with you in case of additional questions.
3. Contact Several Branches
Different branches of the same bank may have different employees and different requirements. If you are refused in one place, it is worth trying another. Sometimes the refusal depends on the specific manager who simply does not want to open an account for a non-resident.
4. Be Prepared for the Initial Deposit
Some banks require a deposit of $25 to $500 immediately upon opening the account. If you do not have the required amount on your card or the bank does not accept cash, the process may be delayed. It is best to clarify the minimum deposit amount and the method of making it in advance.
5. Be Patient and Persistent
If the manager refuses, you can clarify which specific documents are not suitable or suggest alternative options. The main thing is to behave politely and not argue. In difficult cases, you can ask to speak to a senior employee.
Opening a bank account in the USA is possible even for a tourist, but the process depends on the bank, the branch, and the set of documents. The better the preparation, the higher the chance of success. Before visiting, it is worth clarifying the requirements, choosing a suitable bank, and gathering the maximum possible documents. If you are refused in one place, do not give up — another branch may agree to open an account.
American Butler specialists will help you prepare to open an account and avoid difficulties. If you need consultation or assistance, contact us, and we will select the best option.
Share
