How to Open a US Bank Account Online
Open a US Bank Account Online as a Non-Resident
✅ Quick Answer: Can Non-Residents Open a US Bank Account Online?
Yes! But most banks require:
✔ ITIN or SSN (Get an ITIN via W-7 form)
✔ US address (Use a friend’s or mail-forwarding service)
✔ Passport + Visa (B1/B2, H1B, L1, F1 accepted)
Fastest Options:
- Wise (Recommended) – No SSN needed
- Payoneer – Free US account number
- Bank of America – With ITIN
📌 Step-by-Step Process to Open a US Bank Account Online
1. Choose the Right Bank for Non-Residents
| Bank | Min. Deposit | SSN Needed? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wise | $0 | ❌ No | Lowest fees |
| Payoneer | $0 | ❌ No | Freelancers |
| Bank of America | $100 | ✅ Yes (or ITIN) | Physical branches |
| Chase | $0 | ✅ Yes (or ITIN) | Credit cards |
| HSBC USA | $1,000 | ❌ No (Global Transfer) | High-net-worth |
💡 Pro Tip:
- No SSN? Use Wise or Payoneer instantly.
2. Get an ITIN (If No SSN)
- File IRS Form W-7 (With tax return)
- Submit passport copy (Certified by IRS agent)
- Wait 7+ weeks for ITIN approval
Cost: 50–200 (via certified acceptance agents).
3. Provide a US Address
Most banks require a US residential address. Options:
✅ Friend/Family Address (Best for verification)
✅ Mail Forwarding Service (e.g., Traveling Mailbox – 15/month)
✅ VirtualOffice (e.g.,Regus–50+/month)
🚫 PO Boxes don’t work!
4. Apply Online (With Required Documents)
Needed:
- Passport (Not expired)
- US Visa (B1/B2, F1, H1B, etc.)
- Proof of Address (Utility bill or bank statement)
- ITIN/SSN Letter
⏳ Processing Time:
- Wise/Payoneer: Instant
- Traditional Banks: 3–5 business days
5. Fund Your Account
- Wire Transfer (Fee: 15–50)
- Wise Transfer (Cheapest forex rates)
- Deposit Cash (If you’re in the US)
Minimum Deposit:
- Bank of America: $100
- Chase: $0
💰 Best US Bank Accounts for Non-Residents
1. Wise (Best for Low Fees)
✅ No SSN needed
✅ Free US account + routing number
✅ Convert 40+ currencies
❌ No physical branches
2. Payoneer (Freelancers & Businesses)
✅ Free US bank details
✅ Accept payments from Amazon/Upwork
❌ $3/month inactivity fee
3. Bank of America (Traditional Banking)
✅ Open with ITIN
✅ Access to ATMs & credit cards
❌ 12/onthfee(Avoidablewith1,500 balance)
🚫 Common Rejection Reasons & Fixes
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| No US address | Use a mail-forwarding service |
| No SSN/ITIN | Apply for ITIN or use Wise/Payoneer |
| Weak ID proof | Submit passport + visa copy |
| Bad credit history | Try digital banks first |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I open a US bank account on a tourist visa?
Yes! (B1/B2 works at Bank of America or HSBC).
2. Which bank does not require SSN?
Wise, Payoneer, and Mercury (for startups).
3. Can I use a virtual US phone number?
No. Most banks verify with a real US number (Google Voice doesn’t work).
4. How much does it cost to maintain the account?
- Wise: Free
- Bank of America: $12/month (waivable)
💡 Pro Tips for Non-Residents
✔ Build US credit (Get a secured credit card)
✔ Use Wise for cheap international transfers
✔ Avoid Chase/Wells Fargo without SSN
