US credit cards can offer foreign non-residents lucrative benefits that you can’t access anywhere else in the world.
And though most articles will tell you that you need to have a US Social Security Number (SSN) to apply for a US credit card, that’s not the case.
It is entirely possible for foreign non-residents to apply for a US credit card without an SSN.
In fact, many banks will allow foreign applicants to apply for a credit card with just an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
Of course, to successfully obtain a US credit card, an ITIN alone is not enough. Non-residents need to meet specific requirements and properly navigate the application process. Read on below to learn more.
Can You Apply for a Credit Card With an ITIN Number?
It is 100% possible for non-residents to get a US credit card with an ITIN number. However, you will need to meet several requirements and know which credit card providers will accept you. So, before applying, it is important you do your research and take the proper steps. We detail how to do this and more below.
In this article, we’re going to share with you the many benefits non-residents can unlock. And, how to strategically access these benefits.
We’ll also uncover the challenges non-residents likely face when applying for a credit card with an ITIN number.
Lastly, we’ll break down the step-by-step process you need to take when applying.
But, before diving in, if this is your first time visiting GlobalBanks, don’t forget to download your FREE USA Banking Starter Guide. It’s designed to help non-residents open accounts with top banks in the US.
Benefits of Obtaining a Credit Card With an ITIN Number
Many US credit card providers offer some of the most attractive credit cards in the world. No other country in the world even comes close.
But, many foreign non-residents don’t know these benefits even exist. Not to mention, they don’t think they can access them. Which is far from the truth.
Of course, to access these benefits, you’ll need to jump through some hoops, meet specific requirements, and most importantly, follow a strategic plan. Which we’ll get into further below.
But for now, let’s look at the specific benefits non-residents can unlock when obtaining a credit card with an ITIN number.
Benefits of Obtaining a Credit Card With an ITIN Number:
- Build US credit history for yourself
- Build US credit history for your business
- Access lucrative travel rewards programs
- Attractive sign-up bonuses
- Access to loyalty points
- Gateway to further products (mortgage, loans, etc.)
- And more…
Of course, not all US credit card providers offer the same perks. Each credit card provider offers a different combination of sign-up bonuses, rewards, and points.
So, the first step is to know which benefits are most important to you. This will help you to determine which US credit cards for non-residents are best for you.
But that’s not all.
This also allows you to put together a strategic plan to get the card you want. Especially, if you have little to no credit history and you’re not eligible for the specific card right away.
Challenges of Applying for a Credit Card With an ITIN Number
Before we dive into the step-by-step process of how to apply for a credit card with an ITIN number, it is important to understand the challenges you’ll likely face during the process.
So, with that in mind, here’s a look at the challenges…
Challenges of Applying for a Credit Card With an ITIN Number:
- The credit card company requires an SSN
- Don’t have an established US credit history
- Not all US credit card providers accept foreign non-residents
- Some credit card companies only accept residents from certain countries
- Not eligible for an ITIN
- You submitted invalid documents when applying for an ITIN
- And more…
As you can see, there are many challenges that you may face when trying to apply for a credit card with an ITIN number.
That said, nearly all of these challenges can be bypassed by knowing the right bank and credit card companies to apply with.
Of course, first things first. Before you can apply anywhere, you first need to have an ITIN number.
To get an ITIN you have to be able to prove that you have a US tax reporting requirement. The most common means of doing this for a foreign non-resident is through an LLC.
While there are some banking and credit card options for foreign non-residents without an ITIN, you’ll have more and better options available to you if you have one.
If you are unable or unwilling to get an ITIN, read about what options you have to get a US-issued credit card here.
If you already have an ITIN or are interested in getting one, read on for the step-by-step process you need to follow when applying for a credit card with an ITIN number.
How to Apply for a Credit Card With an ITIN Number
Applying for a credit card with an ITIN number can be a difficult process. Especially, if you don’t follow the proper steps.
If you fail to complete the steps, the chances of you getting a US credit card as a foreign non-resident are slim. And, as we mentioned above, obtaining a US credit card can offer unique benefits.
So with that said, let’s dive into the steps you need to take to apply for a credit card with an ITIN number…
Step 1: Apply for an ITIN Number
First things first, you’ll need to apply for an ITIN. And, since you don’t have or perhaps aren’t eligible for a Social Security Number, this step is extremely crucial to successfully get a US credit card as a foreign non-resident.
To apply for an ITIN number, you’ll need to first fill out an application form. More specifically, form W-7 through the IRS. In addition to completing this form, you’ll need to submit proof of identification and foreign status.
Now, you must fill out the form properly and submit the requested documents as your application can take six weeks to be approved. Meaning that if your application is denied and you want to re-apply, it’ll likely take another six weeks to be reviewed.
Step 2: Determine the Requirements
Now, before applying for a US credit card as a non-resident, it’s important to understand the requirements you’ll need to meet when you apply.
As we’ll explain further below, banks and credit card providers have different requirements for each different client profile. In fact, requirements can also vary depending on your country of citizenship and/or residency.
Not to mention the fact that some banks and credit card providers will only accept foreign non-residents that can meet a specific deposit level.
So, to avoid wasting time and money applying to the wrong credit card provider, you must take the time to understand which requirements you’re able to meet.
Step 3: Choose a Credit Card & Apply
Choosing a credit card provider that accepts an ITIN number is more difficult than it may seem. Most credit card companies will simply list the requirement for an SSN on their forms. So, without inside knowledge, it’s impossible to know if they would also accept an ITIN.
And unfortunately, with credit card applications, you can’t just try your luck and see if you’re accepted. Because each time you apply, you get a hard check on your credit report. This can impact your credit score and block you in future credit card applications.
However, rest assured, there are some banks and credit card providers that will accept just an ITIN number. Even if it’s not specifically mentioned on their site or in the application forms.
Another key thing to be aware of is that even with an ITIN, your application could still be denied due to a lack of credit history.
If you don’t have a credit history you should look into applying for an entry-level credit card. This way, you’ll be able to establish a US credit history. And then work your way to upgrading your credit card and unlocking the benefits you’re after.
Now, if you’re eager to apply for a US credit card but you’re unsure which credit card is suitable for you, we cover all the major US credit card providers that foreign non-residents can apply for with an ITIN number in our premium members-only report “US Credit Card Opportunities & Strategies For Foreigners and Non-Residents”.
This report will help you identify your credit card strategy while uncovering the step-by-step instructions on how to unlock the benefits of US credit cards.
You can access this report immediately when you join GlobalBanks USA.
That said, if you’re looking for more information on how to obtain a US credit card with an ITIN number, we can help…
Are You Ready to Apply for a US Credit Card?
Whether you’re ready to apply for a credit card with an ITIN number in the US today or you’re just starting to explore your options, we can help.
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