Stepping into a new country as a student to complete your studies, but being hit by financial issues, and looking for a credit card to manage your finances smartly. However, as an international student, it is hard to obtain a credit card without an SSN in the U.S. Now, if you are wondering how you can get a credit card for international students without SSN, then don’t worry. There are several ways to get the best student credit for international students in the U.S. that we will explore here.
As a student, one can apply for a credit card using their ITIN, which helps most international students obtain the best credit card for international students. In addition, several banks issue credit cards based on your passport, too. In the coming article, we will discuss the benefits of having a credit card and banks that issue cards without a SSN. So do not jump anywhere else to know more.
Eligibility Criteria for International Students (Without SSN)
If you are looking for a credit card for international students without SSN in the U.S., the card should meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Valid Visa Status
- The applicant must have a valid U.S. student or exchange visa, such as F-1, J-1, or M-1. Remember, the applicant visa should be active at the time of application.
- Valid Passport
- A student with a valid passport from their home country is necessary. Several credit card issuers use your passport as the primary identity document.
- ITIN
- Several card issuers accept an ITIN instead of an SSN. Also, it elevates the chances of your acceptance.
- A Valid U.S. Address
- Applicant must have a valid U.S. residential address.
- U.S. Bank Account
- Most of the card issuers require an active U.S. checking or savings account to process payments and verify your financial stability.
- Proof of Income
- On-campus job income.
- Any internship or stipend.
- Any scholarships or sponsorship funds.
- Minimum Age Requirement
- The applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply for a credit card.
- Good Banking History
- A positive relationship with a U.S. bank, like maintaining a balance or regular transactions, increases the chance of applicant approval.
These are the eligibility criteria to apply for a credit card without an SSN.
How to Apply for a Credit Card Without SSN (Step-by-Step)
Below, we have mentioned steps for international students to apply for a credit card without an SSN:
- First, choose the best credit card that does not require an SSN.
- Open a U.S. bank account.
- Gather all the required documents:
- A valid passport.
- U.S. Visa (F-1, J-1, or M-1).
- A valid U.S. residential address.
- ITIN.
- A proof of income
- Apply online by visiting the official website or in-branch.
- Submit your application and wait for the application.
- If accepted, your credit card will be mailed to your U.S. address, and activation instructions will be provided.
- Use your credit card responsibly to build credit.
Follow these steps to apply for a credit card without an SSN.
Benefits of Having a Credit Card For International Students
Having a credit card for international students offers several benefits that we have listed below. Have a look to understand it better.
- Help To Build US Credit History – This is one of the biggest and major benefits of having a credit card that allows you to build U.S credit history, which is important for:-
- Renting an apartment
- Getting a car loan
- Applying for a future credit card
- Helps in some job applications
- Easy and Secure Payments:- With the help of a credit card, you can pay your daily expenses easily, like groceries, travel, books, and subscriptions, without carrying cash everywhere.
- Attractive Rewards and Cashback:- There are several students card that offers
- Cashback on dining, groceries, and travel
- Bonus points on your everyday spending
- Introductory offers
- Help in an Emergency:- A credit card can act as a trusted financial source in an emergency :
- Help to fulfil medical needs
- Emergency travel
- Unexpected expenses
- Makes Online Purchases Smooth and Easy:- Credit cards are widely accepted on several platforms, like:
- Amazon
- Flight and hotel booking sites
- University Portals
- Accepted in subscription service
- No Foreign Transaction Fee:- There are several credit card for international students without SSN that waive foreign transaction fees and offer a handsome amount.
- Build Financial Discipline:- Using credit as a student and paying your bills on time helps you to:
- To learn budgeting
- Develop responsible financial habits to save money
- Access To Travel Benefits:- Some credit card offers:
- Travel Insurance
- Rental car coverage
- Offer rewards for travel expenses
These are some of the benefits of having a credit card for international students without SSN.
Best Credit Card For International Students
Below, we have listed the best credit card for international students without SSN. Have a look at it.
| Credit Card | SSN Required | Annual Fee | Cashback / Rewards | Foreign Transaction Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zolve Classic | No | $0 | 1% cashback on all purchases, up to 10% at selected merchants | 3% | First-time international students building U.S. credit |
| Zolve Signature | No | $99 | Up to 3% cashback on selected brands, 1% on others | $0 | Students who want higher rewards and no foreign fees |
| Deserve EDU Mastercard | No | $0 | 1% unlimited cashback on all purchases | $0 | Students looking for a simple no-fee credit card |
| Firstcard Secured Credit Builder | No | $0 (Deposit required) | Tiered cashback up to 15% at partner merchants | Varies | Students with no credit history or low approval chances |
| Zolve Black | No | $299 | Up to 5% cashback on selected brands, 1.5% on others | $0 | High-spending international students wanting premium rewards |
Zolve Classic
The Zolve Classic Credit Card is especially designed for international students and professionals who are new to the United States. The Zolve card doesn’t require a Social Security Number (SSN), and it allows international students to apply using their passport and a valid U.S. visa. It is a beginner-friendly card that helps build U.S. credit history from day one.
Pros
- No SSN is required to apply for this card.
- You can apply using your passport and visa.
- It comes with no annual fee, which makes it affordable for students.
- The card reports to all three major U.S. credit bureaus.
- Offer easy approval for first-time credit card users.
Cons
- The card has a 3% foreign transaction fee.
- The card has a limited cash back rate compared to premium cards.
- The card doesn’t offer advanced or insurance benefits.
Best For
The card is ideal for international students who are applying for their first U.S. credit card and looking to build credit without paying an annual fee.
Zolve Signature Credit Card
The Zolve Signature Credit Card is an upgraded version of the Zolve Classic Credit Card. The card comes with better cash back options and removes foreign transaction fees, which makes it an ideal choice for students who spend and want better value from their purchases.
Pros
- It doesn’t require any SSN or prior U.S. credit history.
- Offer up to 3% cash back on selected brands.
- Offer 1% cash back on all other purchases.
- Comes with no foreign transaction fee.
- Offer better rewards compared to other entry-level student credit cards
Cons
- The card has a $99 annual fee.
- Its higher rewards are limited to selected brands.
- This card may not be ideal for low spenders.
Best For
It is considered ideal for international students who regularly spend on shopping, food, and subscriptions, and want cash back without foreign transaction fees.
Deserve EDU Mastercard
The Deserve EDU Mastercard is a popular choice among international students because it has no annual fee and offers simple rewards. Also, the card is acceptable worldwide and is an ideal choice for students who want a straightforward card with no hidden charges.
Pros
- No SSN required for the card.
- Comes with no annual fee.
- No foreign transaction fee.
- Offer 1% unlimited cash back on all purchases.
- Offer a free 1-year Amazon Prime Student membership (on qualifying spend).
Cons
- The cash back rate is average.
- The initial credit limit may be low.
- The approval depends on your income or financial proof.
Best For
The card is an ideal choice for students who want a no-fee credit card for their daily expenses while building U.S. credit history.
Firstcard Secured Credit Builder
The Firstcard Secured Credit Builder is especially designed for students with no credit history. Since it is a secured card, applicants need to deposit money, which becomes their credit limit.
Pros
- No SSN required to apply for the card.
- Applicant applies using their passport or ITIN.
- The card is especially designed for credit building.
- Provide tiered cash back up to 15% at partner merchants.
Cons
- The card requires a security deposit.
- The cash back is mainly limited to partner merchants.
- The card is less flexible than unsecured credit cards.
Best For
The card is ideal for those students who cannot get approved for unsecured cards and want a safe way to build U.S. credit.
Zolve Black Credit Card
The Zolve Black Credit Card is a premium credit card offered by Zolve. The card is an ideal choice for those who want a card with a high cash back rate and premium benefits. However, the card comes with a heavy annual fee, making it an ideal choice for students with higher spending needs.
Pros
- No SSN required.
- Offer up to 5% cash back on selected brands.
- 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.
- Offer premium features and potentially higher credit limits.
- The card has higher credit-building potential.
Cons
- The card has a heavy annual fee of $299.
- Not ideal for students with low spending.
- Benefits may not justify the cost for every user.
Best For
An ideal choice for international students who want premium rewards and higher cash back.
These were some of the best credit card for international students without SSN that come with attractive features.
Tips To Manage Your Credit Card Responsibly
Below are some tips to help you manage your card and build a credit history responsibly. Have a look for a better understanding.
Always Pay Balance On-Time:-
- Never miss any due date
- Set up an auto payment for a minimum or full payment to avoid missing any due date
- Remember, late payment hurts your credit history badly.
Pay Your Full Balance whenever Possible:-
- Avoid interest charges by paying the full amount every month.
- Remember, carrying a balance leads to high APR costs.
Keep Your Credit Utilization Below 30%:-
- Always keep credit utilization below 30%
- The lower the utilization, the higher the credit score
- Try to stay under 10% for top credit score growth
Check Your Statement Regularly (Every Month):-
- Look for unfamiliar charges
- Find anything suspicious, report fraud immediately
- Build habits to track your spending for better financial planning.
Avoid applying multiple Cards:–
- Remember, applying for multiple cards is considered a hard inquiry, which lowers your credit score.
- Keep the new application limited.
Review Your Credit Report Regularly
- Check your report regularly
- Correct the error quickly if you find any.
Protect Card Details
- Do not share your card details.
- Always avoid unsecured wi-fi networks for online purchases.
- Enable your two-factor authentication.
Credit card for international students without SSN should follow these tips to build a credit history in the US for a better tomorrow.
Conclusion
The best student credit card helps to manage your finances wisely, especially when you are an international student. However, obtaining a credit card for international students without SSN can be difficult if you blindly apply for one. Moreover, one can use an ITIN, a Passport, or a Visa to get a card.
There are several credit card issuers that consider your passport or visa to issue a card. In addition, once you get a card, it is important to use it responsibly to build a strong credit history. Because a strong credit history helps you in the future to get a car loan, home loan, or any big loan. This also helps to increase the finance limit.
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.
Hi, my name is Sachin. I am currently studying Economics in college and have a strong interest in personal finance topics like credit cards and loans. Along with my studies, I work as a content writer, where I create educational and easy-to-understand content to help readers better understand financial topics and make informed choices.
