There are many other banks that offer student cards but need you to give them an SSN, an ITIN in the application process. You may want to consider using a secured credit card. The cards offer some of the conveniences of a credit card, but you secure your card with a deposit that becomes your credit line. Some banks will be willing to waive the SSN requirement for you. But you may need to get authorization and have a job lined up firsta job at your school or a part-time job may be enough. Because of the convenience of credit cards, it is easy to overspend and not pay your balances on time. The amount of time it takes to transition from a secured to an unsecured line of credit varies by card issuer. Be absolutely certain that you can pay back what you borrow, plus any interest you accrue, before making a purchase. Though credit cards are typically for working adults, they are important for anyone living overseas. They only offer this card to those that already have a savings or checking account with their bank and charge an annual fee of $25. If you are not employed or have an SSN, never fear! For example, American Express accepts international credit history if you dont have U.S. credit history. A rejection for a credit card on your credit report will look worse than having no credit card. Gather your paperwork, including passport information and proof of income. It does not guarantee that Discover offers or endorses a product or service. Were transparent about how we are able to bring quality content, competitive rates, and useful tools to you by explaining how we make money. We strive to provide students world-class resources to help them investigate and pursue an international education, through relevant content, custom online tools and engaging websites that offer only best in class products and services. When Sid Gupta, a student at the University of California, Berkeley, first moved to the United States for undergrad, his aunt and uncle added him as an authorized user on one of their credit cards. If fraud should occur, notify your card issuer immediately. In this article, we'll show how to send money with Google Pay, both on Android & Apple phones. Their fixed interest rate of 9.99% is pretty high, but they dont penalize you for your late payments. Credit mix (10%): This considers the types of credit you have, including revolving credit (such as a credit card or home equity line of credit) and installment You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content in this publication. Simply place it in a secure location and keep building your credit- even if youre not using your card. Know about perks/rewards: Its likely that your credit card issuer will provide a lot of perks and rewards for using their service. Thankfully, anyone with an F-1, M-1, or J-1 student visa can legally work in the US, which means you can get an SSN even if working part-time or on campus. A: The short answer is pretty much everything. Wise Account and international debit card. The short answer is yesbut things can be a little difficult for international students. It gives you 1% cash back on every purchase, with no annual feeand if you pay your bill on time, youll boost your cash back to 1.25% for that month. The application process is easy and you can get this card really fast. This is useful to access other products like loans and mortgages, and may even be a factor in finding a job or a place to live. The deposit crisis that toppled First Republic and two other banks has only made JPMorgan stronger. Learn about Social Security Numbers & International Student Loans - 2022. Being an international student in the United States can be tough. At Bankrate we strive to help you make smarter financial decisions. But that doesnt mean you should. You dont ever want to lose track of the money you have or the money you owe. The easiest The debt ceiling or debt limit, the amount the U.S. government can borrow to pay its bills is now $31.4 trillion. Overcoming the issue of credit history can be trickier. This plan can help you build U.S. credit history. However, if youre missing one of the requirements, you may run into delays or be rejected altogether. There are plenty of myths and misconceptions international students may have about credit. If youre not so worried about building a credit score or if you simply need a better way to manage your money across currencies you may prefer the Wise Account and international debit card. For example, the CIBC card encourages you to build your credit history while youre studying. Like all other secured cards, your security deposit decides how much credit you are allowed to use. Though there are credit cards for international students in the UK, certain banks need to see some sort of credit history. Learn more about FDIC insurance coverage. Though many banks would rather you sign with a cosigner, getting a loan without a cosigner is possible. A: The Annual Percentage Rate (APR) is a yearly charge for borrowing money. Choose a payment day that works best for you: Youll want to align your payment day with when you have money and stick to the payment plan. Every situation is different, so the credit cards available vary from student to studentand issuer to issuerbased on a variety of factors. 24 hours a day, 7 days a week A great way to boost your credit score and earn a few dollars, at the same time. Heres how to open a credit card in your name if youre an international student in the United States. 3 spot were complaints about consumer debt and credit. These three banks offer excellent options for international students without SSN. Q: What can I pay for with my credit card? Mar 31, 2022 When you are studying outside of your home country, having a Credit Card as an international student can be resourceful in ways you might not have even thought of. Most major credit cards, including Amex, Chase and Capital One, offer credit cards for non-residents, including immigrants and students. This way, your personal data goes straight to the financial institute, eliminating the risk of a third party obtaining your information and reducing the possibility of identity theft. We hope you found this helpful. These cards are reported as regular credit cards on your credit report. A secured card looks and functions much like a traditional credit card, but youll pay a security deposit to the issuer first. When you get the loan, make sure to pay everything on time. Several major banks offer credit cards for foreigners. If you cant get a Social Security number, there are still options. Q: What is APR? 1 Reply LinaJ2018 Intuit Alumni June 6, 2019 2:45 AM If you are a nonresident alien for any part of the year, you generally cannot claim the education credits. Now that youre on your way to owning a credit card, financial literacy is crucial. The F-1 Visa (Academic Student) allows you to enter the United States as a full-time student at an accredited college, university, seminary, conservatory, academic high school, elementary school, or other academic institution or in a language training program. At Bankrate, we take the accuracy of our content seriously. editorial integrity, Your credit history is attached to your name, birthday, and address meaning international students can still apply for credit cards. They charge a $39 annual fee and a regular rate of 13.99%. Compare cards in one place to find the one for you. For example, Luisa Elton moved to the United States as an au pair after studying in her native Brazil. Their reviews hold us accountable for publishing high-quality and trustworthy content. Base rewards rate: 2% cash rewards on purchases. The deposit crisis that toppled First Republic and two other banks has only made JPMorgan stronger. Whenever you need to switch currencies or send or receive payments from your home country youll get the mid-market exchange rate and low, transparent fees that can beat the banks. Opening a U.S. bank account as an international student can eliminate currency exchange fees, protect your assets, and make it easier to pay for things via check or debit card and manage bills online. In some cases youll be able to use your ITIN in place of an SSN. When you open a checkings and savings account together, you can show that you have healthy spending habits by transferring a monthly amount to your savings and paying everything, such as your utility bills on time. Credit card issuers may ask for a Social Security number when you apply for a card. For example, Clodagh Hart, a native of Dublin, Ireland, who studied literature at the City University of New York, says that the international student office was invaluable for giving tips in navigating her financial life in the United States. Youll also get free access to your credit score, a limit increase as long as you pay on time, and a bonus of 20 USD a year if you keep your account in good standing. The security deposit number is the same as your credit availability; the more you deposit the more credit you have. The Review Board comprises a panel of financial experts whose objective is to ensure that our content is always objective and balanced. WebCredit card suggestion - International Student (US) International student who just received my SSN. You can overcome these challenges, but its important to know what they will be before going into the process. Having a credit card can also give you access to perks, points, and reward offers, and may make it easier to handle your finances in the United States. *Zolve $1,500, 08/2022. By getting a credit card, you begin to build a relationship with the bank where you show them how responsible you are. However, before jumping into it, you should know about some potential security threats. All major credit card companies report to the three major credit unions, and this becomes your credit history. You are leaving Discover.com and entering a website operated by a third party. This offer also includes no annual fees. Bank of America may allow you to get a credit card with an ITIN instead of an SSN as long as you meet all the other eligibility requirements for the specific card. Plus, you could get discounts, rewards, and rebates. Before deciding on a credit card company, make sure youve been through all of the options available to you and compared them. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Google Play is a trademark of Google Inc. Lindsey is a full-time entrepreneur and part-time writer in the personal finance space. You will need a Social Security Number (SSN) to apply for a credit card with most American banks. Unfortunately, if you have good credit back home, this foreign credit history cant be transferred to the U.S., so that is not a viable option. Courtney Mihocik is an editor at Bankrate Credit Cards and CreditCards.com specializing in credit card news and personal finance advice. CREDIT PROFILE. Photo-illustration by Breanna Denney/Alexandra Citrin As mentioned before, its important to become a responsible spender in order to hold a credit card. If you are an international student, this might be harder to prove since you cant transfer your foreign credit history. Discover student cards do require a credit check, but theres the possibility that youll get a card issued even if you dont meet the minimum credit score, as other factors are also taken into account when assessing applications. You may also want to start building credit if you have long-term plans in the U.S. Thankfully, anyone with an F-1, M-1, or J-1 student visa can You may want a credit card to use for some of your monthly expenses while in school. Secured credit cards protect the issuer in the event you can not make a payment. Through writing, she enjoys sharing her knowledge of business growth, family finance and building your financial profile. For one, it comes in handy for emergency payments. Our editorial team does not receive direct compensation from our advertisers. This card has no annual fee, and cash back opportunities on spending of up to 3%. With a taxpayer ID, she was able to get a credit cardwith a limit of $350. We value your trust. There are a few limits on this account as compared to other credit cards such as no balance transfers or cash advances but the upside to this is lower fees. With this combination of expertise and perspectives, we keep close tabs on the credit card industry year-round to: At Bankrate, we focus on the points consumers care about most: rewards, welcome offers and bonuses, APR, and overall customer experience. For example, most credit card companies will require you to provide a social security number but some do not have this requirement. This might make the process of obtaining your credit card run a little more smoothly. It offers 1% cash back on every purchase, with the opportunity to earn even more if you pay your bill on time for that month. We continually strive to provide consumers with the expert advice and tools needed to succeed throughout lifes financial journey. This credit card is really hard to obtain since the application process is tough and rarely approved. You will then take your application and documents to your local Social Security office. WebBanks are very unlikely to give you a credit card as an international student (unless you both have a permanent visa and a job you have held for at least six months). But the opportunity to fund your purchases, build credit and earn rewards could pay off in the end. For specific advice about your unique circumstances, consider talking with a qualified professional. Send your questions to, Get in contact with Mariah Ackary via Email. While some banks will work with undocumented immigrants to grant them access to a credit card, you can increase your chances of getting a card by obtaining a drivers license or securing other forms of identification like an SSN or a passport. It is even tailored with perks that would be attractive to the average students, such as travel and cashback rewards. Opening a U.S. bank account can also be an essential first step in securing a line of credit for the future. Credit card offers will vary, so consider reaching out to them. *FICO socre: 730. Base rewards rate: 2% cash rewards on purchases. It allows you to start building your credit score (yes, thats a big deal, especially in the US) and it comes in handy during emergencies. Financial literacy starts with knowing what you earn and spend and understanding the difference between needs and wants. We do not recommend this being anyones first, go-to option. In the other states, the program is sponsored by Community Federal Savings Bank, to which we're a service provider. There are many benefits of having a credit card to use while youre an international student. When applying for a credit card, whether youre an international student or not, most issuers will check an applicants credit history. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely. Whether youre a student or an immigrant, you can access a credit card for foreigners and build U.S. credit history. Many major banks offer a credit card for international students, and, depending on the bank, you can apply with your passport or your I-20 form. Even though the card is secured, the way you use the card keeping a low credit utilization and paying bills promptlystill allows you tobuild your credit history2. With an international student credit card, you can begin to build a strong credit rating, which is necessary if you plan to settle abroad after studying. This material is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, or tax advice. Credit cards arent the best choice in all situations. Most credit card companies will require you to get an SSN to open a credit card account. The Primor Secured Visa Gold Card accepts applicants that dont have the best credit history which can work to your advantage. And responsible uselike paying bills on timecan help build good credit. You can use it to borrow for other financial goals. On the Chrome card, you can get 2% cash back on specific spending on fuel and eating out. At the same time, Bank of America, Discover, Capital One, Deserve, and Citibank all offer international student credit card options with varying perks. Apply Now. This is commonly referred to as an ITIN, an individual taxpayer identity number. American Express, Chase and Capital One all offer credit cards for foreigners, which are open to illegal immigrants. Expert verified means that our Financial Review Board thoroughly evaluated the article for accuracy and clarity. With the cash back card you can earn up to 5% on your spending, with the places you can earn changing every quarter. Wells Fargo Active Cash Card. Some issuers may accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification number (ITIN), which can be easier for international students to obtain. Please review the applicable privacy and security policies While we strive to provide a wide range offers, Bankrate does not include information about every financial or credit product or service. The money you deposit in a secured credit card doubles as the credit you owe on the secured card. They see loads of students from different countries, and can tell you what information you need to bring to the bank, what sort of credit cards to look for, and how and why establishing a financial base in the US is important, even if you plan to go back to your home country, explains Clodagh, who was only in the United States for a year before returning to Ireland. Approval is not guaranteed, but its a way to get an idea of whether the credit card might be a good fit before you submit a formal application. The information mentioned above is important to know when considering a credit card. WebThere are many benefits of having a credit card to use while youre an international student. Check out todays auto loan rates. But this doesnt mean all hope is lost. As an international students just coming into the USA, it can be very hard to secure credit, and you may find that you will be rejected from many banks. will first want to check with the credit card company to confirm if there are fees for non-use, and dont forget A Red Ventures company. You can search online for the best current credit cards for immigrants. The application process is roughly the same for citizens as it is for non-citizens. A good one to look at is the Chase Freedom Student Credit Card which has one of the best available APRs, at 17.99% at the time of writing, with similar fees to most other competitor products. Lets say you cant find your credit card and fear that someone else might have picked it up. Another option is applying for a secured credit card, in which your credit line will equal your deposit amount, starting at $200.1For example, if a card has a limit of $500, you will have already paid $500 toward the card, securing the credit limit. You might want to get a US credit card in order to build a credit history in the US. Even if you have a credit line in your home country, in the United States, your credit scorewhich includes your credit historymay be used to determine creditworthiness for things like renting or buying a home, financing a car, or applying for a job. Need more help exploring credit card options? This way, you can start showing how responsible you are with debts. Do I have credit history outside of the U.S.? editorial policy, so you can trust that our content is honest and accurate. Credit cards provide a higher degree of safety compared to cash since they can be easily canceled if lost or stolen, says Hans Mast, a travel expert from Golden Rule Travel. Citibank has resulted in a good option thanks to the easy process it provides for international students. Start making moves toward your money goals and compare your debt management options. Bankrate has partnerships with issuers including, but not limited to, American Express, Bank of America, Capital One, Chase, Citi and Discover. Barclay Card 5. A: Its hard to determine what a good rate is. Of course, this isnt right or possible for everyone, but may be an option to consider depending on your personal situation. It is generally a good idea to avoid spending more than 30% of your spending limit. Naturally, you have a higher chance to succeed in your application if you are employed. The material on this site is not intended to provide legal, investment, or financial advice and does not indicate the availability of any Discover product or service. ago How to get a credit card as an International student ? Therefore, this compensation may impact how, where and in what order products appear within listing categories, except where prohibited by law for our mortgage, home equity and other home lending products. 12 Credit Cards for International Students, Secured Credit Card Options for International Students, Build Your Credit First to Get Your Credit Card, Bank of America Cash and Travel Rewards Cards, First Progress Platinum Select MasterCard, Where to Get a Cashiers Check Without a Bank Account, Paying your balance in full at the end of each month, Keeping balance lower than 30% of your credit card limit. Opening a U.S. bank account, especially if youre working in the United States or paying rent, utilities, or other bills, can be a smart move. As an alternative, you can have a friend or family member with a good credit score and longer credit history add you to their account. If you manage to get a credit card, you can start building your credit by: Banks can use your personal information to see your credit history, but this doesnt guarantee your chance of getting a credit card. Applying for a taxpayer ID number through theIRScan be a valuable form of identification. Having an account open in the US will make it easier to manage the money you have and to keep track of what you owe. If youre an international student in the US to further your education, youre in for a great experience. *. As you can see, the above list is fairly inclusive. Apply using your ITIN in place of an SSN, as long as youre over 18 and a US resident. Lets take a look at some ideas for credit cards for international students who dont have an SSN. It is also a good idea not to apply for too many cards at once, because too many rejections will negatively affect your chances of another financial institute accepting your application. The option that works best for you will depend on your personal financial and residence situation. To no ones surprise, credit cards are an easy, portable and borderless way to buy what you need when you are on the go. 1-888-704-6970 Its also legal. Be sure to do extensive research on the prerequisites and benefits of each; compare interest rates and withdrawal fees, and ask your seniors about their experience with their banks. They are accepted everywherewell, There are no fees to open or maintain your account, and no minimum balance, making this an easy, cheap and convenient way to manage your money across currencies. BR Tech Services, Inc. NMLS ID #1743443 | NMLS Consumer Access. We are going to go over how you can overcome this barrier and get the credit card you need in the United States. International students can open a U.S. bank account, sign up for a prepaid card or become an authorized user on someone elses card. about any annual fees your card might have. Though it may seem like more of a challenge, its a challenge that is important for any student to overcome. Our editors and reporters thoroughly fact-check editorial content to ensure the information youre reading is accurate. Anayat Durrani April 23, 2020 Health insurance policies and costs can vary from campus to campus, and some institutions offer their own plans in which students must enroll. Wondering if you can send money from PayPal to Wise or the other way around? Using a secured credit card, paying your bills on time, and increasing your income can all help to rapidly build a credit score here in the US, giving you broader access to other options like consumer and secured credit when you need it. After the security deposit, many require no other monthly or annual fees. At each step of the way, we fact-check ourselves to prioritize accuracy so we can continue to be here for your every next. Sometimes, the company requires you to have a Social Security number (SSN) to apply; if thats the case, you can work on campus to get an SSN. Student loans can be used to pay for undergraduate or graduate Some banks will work to Our award-winning editors and reporters create honest and accurate content to help you make the right financial decisions. No credit check is necessary for this secure card either. They dont charge any annual fees and give a 1% cash-back on any purchase you make. Google Pay vs GPay: What are the differences? Getting a US green card as an international student: A step-by-step guide Trending Thira mohamad 11 Apr 2022 A US green card allows you greater rights and Rewards: Earn 6% cash back at U.S. supermarkets on up to $6,000 per year in purchases (then 1%), 6% cash back on select U.S. streaming subscriptions, 3% cash This material should not be considered an offer or recommendation to buy or sell a security. Want to use Google Pay but not sure how? If thats not an option for you, weve compiled pointers on getting an international student credit card in the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK. Trust your judgment. On the Stilt Blog, I write about the complex topics like finance, immigration, and technology to help immigrants make the most of their lives in the U.S. Our content and brand have been featured in Forbes, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, and more. There are many scholarships and financial aid opportunities available to international students. This means if you are an international student, youre unlikely to be eligible for a student credit card. The banker you work with may also have suggestions on credit card options, and having a bank account based in the United States can make it easier to pay your credit card bills. The Capital One Quicksilver Card is yet another good option for international students who dont have an SSN. Capital One Journey Student Credit Card 4. Plus, as a Capital One card, it also features security alerts, a Card Lock feature in case your card is lost or stolen and no foreign transaction feesgreat for making purchases if youre on the go in another country. Try to get a loan without a cosigner. Having a steady source of income and a checking or savings account will boost your chances of being accepted. You may end up with high fees for spending and withdrawals, and could run up interest charges or penalties if you cant pay on time. International bank accounts not only provide a safe place for your money but also ensure quick payments, withdrawals, overdrafts and debit/credit You do get rewarded for every purchase including a 1.5% cash-back on your purchases. This card has no annual fee, no penalty fee and no late fee making it a pretty safe way to manage your money. Here's an explanation for how we make money Additionally, Discover offers a credit card for foreigners, especially for international graduate students. Their Cash Rewards card is a better choice for those who are getting a credit card for the first time. Leveraging alternative forms of identification like ITINs, passports and visas are paramount. The Journey Student Credit Card from Capital One could be one option. They also have a large range of credit you can choose from; from $200-$5,000. Remember that when you use your credit card, you end up owing that money. Anyone with access to your SSN can open credit cards in your name, so its best to only keep this information to yourself unless youre required to disclose it. WebIn Australia you do not need a credit card for credit score purposes. As an international student applying for a credit card, you may need different application materials, including your student visa, ITIN and unexpired identification. For example, if you have a job, set yourself up to make payments right after you get paid. There are still ways you can build your credit before getting a card. So how do you get one? In this case youll probably have F-1 or M-1 status, and youll need to apply for your Social Security Number online. CREDIT PROFILE. The good news is that its possible to get a credit card for non-residents. This cash-back is slightly higher than their Journey Student Card, but this card charges an annual fee of $39. Each card issuer will have a different set of requirements and different perks. Discover Bank does Moving to a different country as an international student is a costly affair but you cannot expect to carry all the money you require. First, youll want to take a look at the requirements put in place by the credit issuer. However, you still need to prove yourself as creditworthy, so here are a few more tips: Though most credit card applications will require an SSN, there are different ways you can gain access to credit without one. Most credit card companies offer credit cards to legal residents and U.S. citizens alike. Our team is full of a diverse range of experts from credit card pros to data analysts and, most importantly, people who shop for credit cards just like you. One of the best ways toestablish a good credit historyis to establish good payment habits, including keeping alow credit utilization ratio(meaning not charging your card close to the credit limit) and paying your bills in full and on time each month. Our experts have been helping you master your money for over four decades. advice regarding your financial situation, please consult with a financial advisor. Best credit cards for international students in the U.S. Can undocumented immigrants apply for a credit card? We are providing the link to Capital One offers a Journey Student Credit Card that is a great option for international students. address. An ITIN can help people who are applying for a credit card or opening a bank account as well. According to the SSA, international students who have a visa class which allows them to work legally may be able to apply for an SSN. Once you have followed those steps, you will just need to wait for the approval decision. Luckily most banks have already taken students into consideration and know that students dont always have the longest credit history to back up their credit chances. Terms apply to the offers listed on this page. Why? Home insurance doesn't have to be a hassle. Most credit card companies will require that you have a bank account, a job and proof of income. You may reapply for a credit card once you build a strong history on your secured credit card, which typically takes six to 12 months. Just use your ID and proof of address* from your home country to open an account online or in the Wise app in just a few minutes. So as youre preparing for your study abroad journey, you may be wondering: Can international students get credit cards, and how do I go about it? Well show you how. On a credit card, if you make all of your monthly Her passions outside work include spending time with her family and pets, traveling as much as possible and cooking. Reduce industry jargon so you get the clearest form of information possible, so you can make the right decision for you. *Zolve $1,500, 08/2022. Builds credit with responsible use: Discover reports your credit history to the three major credit bureaus so it can help build your credit if used responsibly. A rejection for a credit card on your credit report will look worse than having no credit card. Its better to find out if youpre-qualify, which means that a lender will let you know if youre likely to get approved before you apply. Getting simple things like a credit card, a loan, or an apartment can become complicated without a Social Security Number (SSN) a nine-digit number that is only assigned to U.S. residents and citizens by the U.S. government. They also have a great Global Transfer service that makes it easier for you to move money back and forth between international accounts, which is a plus. International students can open a U.S. bank account, sign up for a prepaid card or become an authorized user on someone elses card. Lastly, building credit history is necessary, especially if you are planning on creating a life after college in the United States. You should try to avoid canceling your credit card as it could negatively affect your credit An ITIN is available to certain non-residents and resident aliens who need to file federal income tax returns in the U.S. when they dont qualify for an SSN. The Wells Fargo Secured Credit Card requires a minimum of $300 security deposit. For personal Read in-depth credit card reviews to find out which cards have the best perks and more. These companies offer the best credit cards for international students: Discover, Capital One, Bank of America, and Deserve. Gather your American Express, in partnership with Nova Credit, makes it fast and easy for US newcomers to apply. This card is meant for those who dont have amazing credit. One common issue is getting a credit card for international students in the USA without an SSN. Similar to international students, these individuals can use proof of employment or an ITIN to apply if they find a bank that is willing to work with them. A lot of this is a result of credit card holders spending more than they actually have coming in. A: Generally, no. Its entirely possible to get a credit card as a non-U.S. citizen. Discover will determine your maximum credit limit by your income and ability to pay. I made sure to always pay my bills on time. How International Students and Immigrant Workers Can Get a Credit Card Secured and alternative cards are options. You will need a Social Security Number (SSN) to apply for a credit card with most American banks. Home equity is the portion of your home youve paid off. Best for restaurants and entertainment: Capital One SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card. Congress last pushed the ceiling up by $2.5 trillion in December 2021. Previously, she led insurance content at Reviews.com and worked as the loans editor at The Simple Dollar. As an international student, you may face hurdles in applying for a credit card, but getting one is possible. credit card balance added on top of what you have to repay. While youll usually need an SSN, as well as a US credit history, to get a credit card here, there are providers which have come up with alternative application options for people who may not have a local credit score, or who have an ITIN rather than an SSN. Get an account online or in the Wise app and even before you move to the US** to get a USD balance, and local US bank details to get paid fee free. If you dont have either an SSN or ITIN, you could get a credit card like American Express by getting a friend to co-sign thus showing they know you are trustworthy and vouch for you if anything goes wrong. Some banks even require a minimum income to apply for an international student credit card. Most card issuers will ask for your Social Security number. If you are a student studying in the US on an F-1, M-1, or J-1 student visa, and are authorized to work in the US, you can apply for an SSN. Try to submit only one or two applications, particularly for cards designed for students with lower credit lines. Nova Credit has partnered with American Express, which offers unique technology that can translate international credit data from other countries into U.S.-equivalent scores. Most applications will also require an SSN, though some issuers will accept an ITIN or even a visa. While information and sources are believed to be accurate, MoneyLion does not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of any information or source provided herein and is under no obligation to update this information. Any issuers discussed on our site are vetted based on the value they provide to consumers at each of these levels. Google Pay and GPay may be quite similar. Find out the answer in our article. Here are a few of those benefits: Getting a credit card can be a difficult process and as an international student, there are more challenges for you to face. One of the main reasons banks ask for your SSN is so they can check up on your credit history. **Dining: $150 **Groceries: $300 **Gas: 0 **Travel: Lyft $50 *Do you plan on using this card abroad for a significant length of time: No Discover has a couple of credit cards which are aimed at students: the Student Cash Back card, and the Chrome for Students card. International students ask a lot about credit cards, and its important to know that each credit card company has different requirements. WebYes, its true that studying in the U.S. can be expensive, but dont let that discourage you. Here are a few of those benefits: You can build good credit: Your credit history The Discover it Secured Credit Card can help you build credit with responsible use.2 If you use your secured card responsibly, your issuer may return your security deposit in full, and you may be able to transition to an unsecured line of credit. We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether express or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date. Take a look at the card issuer requirements. If you hold an F-1 or J-1 visa, you can apply to get a social security number through the Social Security Administration (SSA). Student loans are easier to get as a student, especially if you dont have a credit history to back you up. *FICO socre: 730. Students should also be taught topics like taxes, credit cards, loans, investing, and retirement planning; these are all essential to managing money responsibly. Travel rewards and no annual fee: Bank of America Travel Rewards Credit Card for Students. While youll For specific advice about your unique circumstances, you may wish to consult a qualified professional. A lot of credit card issuers will even allow you to enable auto-pay so that your bill will automatically be paid on its due date. Youll also want to keep your Social Security Number (SSN) top secret. How to get a credit card as an international student Learn the requirements to get a U.S. credit card. It helps if you can prove this with a card from your home country, or if you apply for a credit card with a bank where you already have a registered account. In fact, in most instances, non-residents that arent members of the Unlucky Passport Club can typically access credit cards in the US. The United States is a largely cashless society, and having a credit card for the length of your stay will be extremely convenient, and it is essential in establishing a line of credit (especially if you want things like a mobile phone, or to buy a house). Our goal is to give you the best advice to help you make smart personal finance decisions. There are avenues available, and some of the most common include getting a Social Security number (SSN), an individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) or becoming an authorized user on someone elses account. We are compensated in exchange for placement of sponsored products and, services, or by you clicking on certain links posted on our site. If that sounds like you, you're in the right place, as well round up the best credit cards for international students without an SSN, and also introduce the Wise Account and international debit card if youre more in the market for a low cost debit option. Journey cardholders can earn cash back rewards and may be automatically considered for a credit line increase in as little as six months. In this article, we'll cover the possibilities. Capital One also offers a Platinum Credit Card that is very good for those who are just starting out. Therefore, you will not need to pay a security deposit or prove your income history. American Express, for example, will check international credit history if you dont have U.S. credit history. To get a U.S. credit card, youll need to apply for the card directly. Q: What is a good credit card interest rate for international students? In order to apply for an SSN, you must first have employment in the US (for off-campus employment, you are going to have to receive authorization from the Department of Homeland Security). If you dont get approved for your first choice of credit card, there may be other options. If you dont have a U.S. credit report and credit score, its more difficult for them to see if youre qualified. Wells Fargo Active Cash Card. Deserve Edu Conclusion Can I as an international student get an SSN? The debt ceiling or debt limit, the amount the U.S. government can borrow to pay its bills is now $31.4 trillion. Banks are very unlikely to give you a credit card as an international student (unless you both have a permanent visa and a job you have held for at least six months). Your best bet would be to obtain a supplementary card under a parent, from an international bank. But between studying, exploring and taking weekend road trips, its important to consider and plan your finances, too. A good rule of thumb with credit Best for travel: Bank of America Travel Rewards for Students. Citibank offers a credit card for international students and doesnt charge you any extra fees. This may also help you secure more competitive credit card offers in the future. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Because most US residents have an SSN, its commonly asked for as a form of ID when opening a bank account, getting a credit card or opening other types of official accounts. Issuer immediately a look at some ideas for credit cards for foreigners which! Though some issuers will ask for a credit card issuer will have a credit card secured alternative... The Journey student credit card offers will vary, so you can overcome this barrier and the! Some do not recommend this being anyones first, youll need to see youre... Thumb with credit best for you will depend on your credit history card from Capital one offers a Journey credit... 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