Credit Cards for Non US Citizens in 2025 – Best Options Without SSN

Getting a credit card in the U.S. can be confusing, especially for non-U.S. citizens. Today, we are discussing credit cards for non US citizens, because many banks advertise mainly for US citizens, which often leads non–US citizens to believe they are not eligible. However, as an outsider in the US, it is totally possible to have a credit card to start your credit journey. 

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through how you can get a credit card, discuss eligibility criteria and required documents, and explain the steps to apply for one. Therefore, stay with us to know everything in detail.

Who is Considered a Non US Citizen?

A non-U.S. citizen is anyone who is legally living in or comes into the United States but doesn’t hold U.S. citizenship. This includes: 

• International students (F1, J1 visas).
• Temporary workers (with H1B, L1, and O1 visas).
• Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders).
• Dependents (F2, H4, Visas). 
• Who come as refugees and asylum seekers. 
• The new immigrants without citizenship. 

In the United States, most banks allow non-U.S. citizens to apply for credit cards as long as they have legal status and proper identification.

Can Non US Citizens Get Credit Cards?

Yes, a non-US citizen can easily get credit cards in the US as long as they have legal documents. Most of the banks in the focus more on: 

• Banks focus on legal residency. 
• Check your ability to repay. 
• Check your credit history or proof of income. 

Also, if you don’t even have 

• If you don’t have a long credit history. 
• Recently arrived in the US.
• Do not start earning a high income yet. 

Apart from that, in the U.S., there are still secured and beginner-friendly credit card options available for everyone.

Credit Cards for Non US Citizens Without SSN

A credit cards for non us citizens can be confusing, but if you explore the right options, like cards without an SSN. Below, we have mentioned some of the best options for you. Have a look at it: 

• Secured credit cards. 
• ITIN-accepted cards. 
• You can get credit cards from credit unions. 
• One can go for starter cards for immigrants. 

Remember, these cards typically require: 

• Require a refundable security deposit (secured cards). 
• Requires proof of a US address. 
• A valid passport or visa is required. 

These are some of the best options that a non US citizen can try to obtain a credit card without facing any issues. 

Types of Credit Cards Available for Non US Citizens

For non US citizens, there are several credit card options available to have. However, choosing the right type depends on your visa, income status, SSN or ITIN availability, and your credit history. Below, we have listed some of the credit cards for non us citizens with their pros and cons: 

Secured Credit Cards

A secured credit card requires a refundable security deposit. Your security deposit usually equals your credit limit. Secured credit cards are widely available to non-US citizens and do not require any credit history. 

• Best For
  • Can be an ideal choice for immigrants, international students, or non US citizens without an SSN, or individuals who want to start their US credit. 
• Key Information
  • Your security is refundable when the account is closed or upgraded.
  • The card reports activity to all three major credit bureaus in the U.S.
  • The card works like a regular credit card for purchases. 
• Pros
  • Offer easy approval for non-US citizens. 
  • It doesn’t require any credit history. 
  • Often accepts an ITIN in place of an SSN. 
  • An ideal tool to build or rebuild credit. 
  • The card is available from many banks and credit unions. 
• Cons
  • The card requires an upfront cash deposit. 
  • Offer lower credit limits.
  • Offer few rewards compared to unsecured credit cards.
  • Some secured cards require annual fees. 

Unsecured Starter Credit Cards

The Unsecured Starter Credit Cards do not require a security deposit, but the card is designed for people with limited or fair credit. Also, approval of the cards depends on your income and basic credit profile. 

• Best For
  • An ideal choice for non US citizens with an SSN or ITIN and stable income. 
• Key Information
  • The card doesn’t require any deposit. 
  • The credit limits of the cards start low and increase over time. 
  • The approval of the card is more selective than secured cards. 
• Pros
  • No upfront deposit required.
  • The card helps build better credit quickly. 
  • Some of the cards offer cash back and rewards.
• Cons
  • Hard to get approval for new immigrants.
  • The card has higher interest rates.
  • Offer lower credit limits initially. 
  • May require SSN or longer US residency. 

Student Credit Card (International Students)

The student’s credit card is especially designed for college and university students, including international students studying in the U.S.

• Best For
  • Best for F1 and J1 visa students enrolled in U.S. institutions. 
• Key Features
  • It requires proof of enrollment.
  • Some card issuers accept an ITIN. 
  • Incom allows you to include scholarships or stipends. 
• Pros
  • Comes with easier approval for students.
  • The card usually comes with no annual fee.
  • It offers lower credit limits to control spending.
  • Offer educational tools to learn credit management. 
• Cons
  • Offer limited rewards.
  • The card requires a student status. 
  • Income requirements may apply.
  • The card is not available after graduation. 

Credit Cards From Credit Unions

Credit unions are member-owned financial institutions that often offer more flexible approval standards than many large banks. 

• Best For
  • This is one of the best choices for non-US citizens with a local US address and a relationship with a credit union. 
• Key Information 
  • It requires a membership.
  • Often accepts ITIN. 
  • Personalized approval decisions. 
• Pros
  • Offer high approval chances for non-US citizens. 
  • The card has lower interest rates and fees. 
  • Offer better customer service.
  • Offer more flexibility with documentation. 
• Cons
  • The card has limited nationwide availability. 
  • The card has membership eligibility rules.
  • Offer fewer premium reward options. 
  • Offer a smaller card selection. 

Store Credit Cards

The card has limitations and can only be used at specific retailers or brands. The card usually comes with lower approval requirements. 

• Best For
  • It can be an ideal choice for non US citizens with limited credit history who shop regularly at a specific store. 
• Key Information
  • Can be co-branded or store-only.
  • The card offers discounts or promotions.
  • The card approval standards are lower. 
• Pros
  • Offer easier approval.
  • Offer help to build a credit history. 
  • Comes with special store discounts and offers. 
  • Comes with low initial requirements.
• Cons
  • The card has high interest rates. 
  • Limited usability. 
  • Comes with low credit limits.

Prepaid Cards (Not True Credit Cards)

The card does not report to any major credit bureaus. This is why it doesn’t help you build credit. 

• Best For
  • Best for short-term spending control. 
• Key Information
  • The holder first loads money in advance. 
  • The card doesn’t require a credit check. 
  • The card is not linked to a credit history.
• Pros
  • Do not require a credit check.
  • Easy to get. 
  • The card helps to manage your spending.
  • Ideal for online purchases. 
• Cons
  • The card doesn’t build US credit. 
  • The card fee can be high.
  • The card has no borrowing feature. 
  • Not an ideal card for long-term financial growth. 

These are some of the best credit cards for non us citizens that come with different features. 

Eligibility Requirements For Non US Citizens

To avoid any problems while applying for a credit cards for non US citizens, we have mentioned the eligibility criteria for you. Have a look at it: 

• It requires a valid passport to apply.
• US visa or immigration document. 
• Requires a residential address. 
• Requires an SSN or ITIN (varies by bank). 
• Your proof of income. 
• A valid US phone number and email. 

Note – Maybe some banks can ask for the length of stay or visa expiration date.

How Non US Citizens Can Apply for a Credit Card

1. Determine Your Status

Check whether you have: 

• SSN
• ITIN
• No tax ID yet. 

This decides which credit card you can apply for. 

2. Choose the Right Card Type 

• Looking for no credit history—a secured card is best for you.
• If you are a student, a student card is better. 
• Stable income—go for a starter unsecured credit card. 

Note – Always avoid applying for a premium card initially. 

3. Prepare Required Documents

Keep ready some documents : 

• Your passport. 
• Visa. 
• Your SSN/ITIN.
• Proof of your address. 
• Your income proof. 

4. Apply online or in-branch

Some banks in the US approve applications more easily in a branch, especially for non US citizens. 

5. Use The Card Responsibly

• Always keep your utilization under 30%.
• Pay your full balance every month. 
• Do not go for cash advances. 

These are the eligibility criteria that you need to fulfill to apply for a credit cards for non-U.S. citizens. 

Common Reasons Non US Citizens Get Rejected

Below, we have stated some common reasons for rejection for non US citizens: 

1. Applicant has no US credit history.
2. Incorrect personal information was provided by the applicant. 
3. Applicants’ insufficient income. 
4. The short length of stay.

Note—In the beginning, rejection is normal; you can start with secured cards.

How Non US Citizens Can Build Credit in the US

Building credit is essential for your future and for: 

• Better credit cards.
• Better loans.
• Apartment.
• For lower interest rates.

 Best Practices

• Always pay on time. 
• Keep your balance low.
• Do not close your old accounts. 
• Do not apply for multiple cards at a time. 
• Always monitor your credit history.

Do Credit Cards Affect Immigration Status?

No, it doesn’t.

Using a credit card:

• Does not affect your visa status.
• It does not impact immigration applications.
• It does not count as public assistance. 

Tax Implications for Non-US Citizens

• The credit card usage itself is not taxable. 
• Your interest paid is not tax-deductible. 

Do not forget to file taxes correctly using an SSN or ITIN.

Conclusion

Getting a credit cards for non US citizens is not only possible but is considered one of the best and smartest financial steps you can take in the US. Whether you are a student, worker, or a new immigrant, there are other options designed to help you build credit safely and legally. 

Start making credit history using your credit card responsibly. If you continuously use your credit card responsibly, within a year, you can access better financial opportunities in the U.S. Moreover, before moving forward with any cards, one must know about the cards and their cash back for understanding.

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Discalimer

The information provided on this website is for general guidance on credit cards, loans, and insurance products. We do not provide financial, legal, or professional advice. Product features, eligibility, and terms may change anytime, so users should verify details directly with the provider before applying. We may earn commissions through affiliate links, but this does not influence our reviews or recommendations. Users are responsible for their own financial decisions based on their personal situation.