Best Banks for ITIN Holders in the United States

Always confirm ITIN acceptance with your specific branch before visiting. Fees and requirements vary.

Individual Bank Breakdowns

#1 — Bank of America

Bank of America is one of the most ITIN-accessible major banks in the United States. Most branches process applications with an ITIN, a valid passport, and one additional form of identification. Their staff is typically experienced in working with customers who are new to the U.S. financial system.

• Monthly fee: $4.95–$12 (waived with qualifying minimum balance or direct deposit)
• ITIN accepted: Yes, at most branches
• What to bring: ITIN, valid passport, consular card or foreign government ID
• Pros: Trusted institution, large branch and ATM network, multilingual support, clear path to credit
• Cons: Monthly fee applies if balance or activity requirements are not met
• Best for: ITIN holders who want the most reliable major bank option with in-person support

👉 Open Account — Confirm ITIN Acceptance at Your Branch

#2 — Chase Bank

Chase is the largest bank in the United States. Their branch network is unmatched — over 4,700 locations nationwide. Many branches accept ITIN applications, and Chase offers student account options that work well for international students and newcomers.

Once your account is open and active, Chase also offers pathways to credit cards and other financial products, making it one of the best long-term banking choices.

• Monthly fee: $12 (waived with qualifying direct deposit or minimum balance)
• ITIN accepted: Yes at many locations — confirm with your local branch before visiting
• What to bring: ITIN, valid passport, secondary ID
• Pros: Largest U.S. bank, strongest ATM network, excellent mobile app, best growth path
• Cons: Monthly fee if waiver conditions are not met; ITIN acceptance can vary by branch
• Best for: People who want one bank they can stay with long-term as their financial life grows

👉 Open Account — Check Availability Near You

#3 — Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo has served immigrant communities for decades and is one of the more ITIN-friendly major banks in the country. They are particularly strong for customers who send money internationally, offering wire transfers to many countries at competitive rates.

• Monthly fee: $10 (waived with qualifying minimum balance or direct deposit)
• ITIN accepted: Yes at most locations
• What to bring: ITIN, valid passport, secondary ID
• Pros: Strong ITIN track record, international transfer capabilities, large branch presence
• Cons: Monthly fee if waiver conditions are not met
• Best for: ITIN holders who send money home regularly or want a bank with a proven immigrant-friendly history

👉 Open Account — Confirm ITIN Acceptance at Your Branch

#4 — Citibank

Citibank is a global institution with a strong U.S. presence and real multilingual capability. Many branches serve internationally mobile customers and are staffed for bilingual service. For ITIN holders who also have international banking needs — or who want a bank with global recognition — Citibank is a strong choice.

• Monthly fee: $0–$12 depending on account type (waivable)
• ITIN accepted: Yes at most locations
• What to bring: ITIN, valid passport, secondary ID
• Pros: Global brand, bilingual support, strong international transfer options, ITIN-friendly
• Cons: Fewer U.S. branch locations than Chase or Bank of America in some regions
• Best for: ITIN holders who want multilingual support, international capabilities, or a globally recognized institution

👉 Open Account — Check Locations Near You

#5 — Local Credit Unions

Credit unions are nonprofit financial institutions owned by their members. They are often overlooked — but for ITIN holders, they can be the most accessible and most affordable option in the country.

Many credit unions, especially those serving immigrant and Latino communities, have explicit policies welcoming ITIN holders. They often accept foreign passports and consular cards. Fees are lower than at major banks. And because they are community-focused, the experience is often more personal.

If you have been turned away by a major bank, a credit union may be the right next step.

• Monthly fee: $0–$5 at most credit unions
• ITIN accepted: Many explicitly accept ITIN — check locally
• Pros: Most flexible approval policies, lowest fees, community-oriented, personal service
• Cons: Limited ATM networks; varies significantly by location; fewer digital features than big banks
• Best for: ITIN holders who want the most flexible approval process, lowest fees, and a welcoming environment

👉 Search for an ITIN-Friendly Credit Union Near You

#6 — PNC Bank

PNC Bank acquired BBVA USA and continues to serve many of the communities BBVA built strong relationships with. Some PNC branches have bilingual staff and experience processing ITIN applications, particularly in regions where BBVA had deep coverage.

• Monthly fee: $0–$7 depending on account type (waivable)
• ITIN accepted: Yes at many locations — confirm locally
• Pros: ITIN-friendly at many locations, accessible fees, bilingual support at some branches
• Cons: Coverage and ITIN policies vary significantly by region
• Best for: ITIN holders in regions with strong PNC presence who want accessible fees and bilingual support

👉 View Details — Check PNC Locations Near You

What Every ITIN Holder Needs to Know Before Applying

An ITIN — Individual Taxpayer Identification Number — is issued by the IRS. It is a federal government tax ID for people who file U.S. taxes but do not have a Social Security Number. It is not an immigration status document, and having one does not affect your immigration case.

Many banks accept ITINs for account applications. But not all do — and policies vary between branches of the same bank.

Before you visit any bank:

• Call the branch directly and ask: “Do you accept an ITIN to open a checking account?”
• Confirm what additional documents they require. Most will ask for a valid passport and one secondary ID such as a consular card or foreign government-issued ID.
• If one branch says no, try another location of the same bank. This happens more often than it should — don’t let one rejection stop you.
• Some online banks and fintech apps require an SSN. Those products are not on this list.

How to Choose the Right Bank

Not all bank accounts are the same. Here is what to compare before you decide.

Monthly fees Many banks charge a monthly maintenance fee of $5 to $15. Most of these fees can be waived with a qualifying direct deposit or minimum balance. Always read the fee schedule before opening an account.

Minimum balance requirements Some accounts require you to keep a minimum amount in your account at all times or you get charged. Credit unions and some checking accounts have no minimum balance requirement.

Branch access If you are applying with an ITIN, having a physical branch nearby matters. An in-person conversation can make the difference between an approval and a rejection. Online-only banks typically require an SSN.

ATM fees Withdrawing from an out-of-network ATM usually costs $3 to $5 per transaction. Choose a bank with ATMs near where you live or work — or one that reimburses those fees.

International transfers If you send money to family abroad, look carefully at wire transfer fees and exchange rates. Wells Fargo and Citibank are the strongest options on this list for international transfers.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Giving up after one no. Branch-level ITIN policies vary. If one location turns you away, try another branch of the same bank — or a different bank entirely.
• Not confirming ITIN acceptance in advance. Call before you visit. Bringing all your documents to a branch that doesn’t accept ITIN wastes your time.
• Ignoring the fee structure. Some accounts look free until you read the fine print. Understand what triggers fees before you sign up.
• Skipping direct deposit setup. Many banks waive their monthly fee when you receive direct deposit. If your employer offers it, set it up.
• Choosing only by location. The nearest branch is not always the best fit. Compare fees and ITIN policies first.
• Not asking about credit products. Once your account is open and active, ask your bank what credit-building options they offer for existing customers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I open a bank account in the United States without an SSN? Yes. Many banks allow you to open an account using an ITIN, a valid passport, and one additional form of identification. Always confirm with the specific bank and branch before visiting.

What is an ITIN and why do some banks accept it? An ITIN is a federal tax ID issued by the IRS. It is used by people who file U.S. taxes without a Social Security Number. Because it is government-issued, many banks accept it as valid identification for account purposes.

Which bank gives ITIN holders the best chance of approval? Bank of America and Wells Fargo are consistently rated among the most accessible major banks for ITIN holders. Local credit unions are often even more flexible.

Are there any banks that definitely won’t work for ITIN holders? Most online-only banks and fintech apps — including many popular no-fee options — require an SSN and are not available to ITIN holders. Focus on the banks on this list.

What documents do I typically need? Most banks ask for your ITIN, a valid passport, and one additional ID. This can include a consular card, a foreign government-issued ID, or a utility bill with your address. Requirements vary, so confirm before your visit.

Will a bank account help me build credit? A bank account alone does not build your credit score. But it is a necessary first step. Many banks offer credit-builder products or credit cards to existing customers — which is how your credit history begins.

Final Decision

You have the information. Here is how to act on it.

• You want the highest ITIN approval rate at a major bank → Open an account with Bank of America
• You want the largest branch network and the best long-term banking platform → Choose Chase Bank
• You send money home and want strong international transfer options → Go with Wells Fargo
• You want bilingual support and global banking capability → Try Citibank
• You want the most flexible approval and lowest fees → Find a local credit union

Opening a bank account is not just a practical task. It is the foundation of your financial life in the United States. Without one, everyday financial decisions cost more and take longer. With one, you gain a safe place for your money, access to a debit card, and the starting point for building the credit history that will open doors for years to come.

Start with the option that fits your situation today. You can always upgrade as your financial life grows.

Related Guides

• How to Open Your First Bank Account in America
• Best Credit Cards for ITIN Holders
• How to Build Credit Without a Social Security Number

Disclaimer This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Bank policies, fees, and ITIN acceptance requirements change frequently and vary by location. Always verify details directly with the bank or credit union before opening an account.