Opening a U.S. bank account can make everyday student life much easier, especially for international students paying rent, receiving money from home or starting a campus job.
The process is usually straightforward once you know what your bank requires.
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1. Bring a valid passport
A valid passport is commonly accepted as a primary form of identification.
Banks may require original, unexpired identification rather than a copy or screenshot.
2. Bring a second form of ID
Depending on the bank, a student ID, foreign driver’s license or another accepted government-issued photo ID may work.
Requirements vary, so check the bank’s document list before going.
3. Bring proof of your local U.S. address
Banks may ask for a document showing your name and current U.S. address.
Depending on the bank, accepted documents can include things like a lease, utility bill or another qualifying address document.
4. Check whether your bank needs a foreign tax number
Some banks may ask for the tax identification number issued by your home country.
Bank of America, for example, requires a Foreign Tax Identification Number for its international-student application process.
This is not a universal requirement, so check your bank before applying.
You may not need an SSN to open the account
Some banks allow international students to open an account before they have a U.S. Social Security number.
Chase says international students may be able to open a checking account using other accepted identification, while Bank of America says a U.S. TIN or ITIN is not required for its international-student process unless one has already been issued.
Requirements can vary by bank, account type and individual situation.
If you already have an SSN or ITIN, bring it with you.
Going to a branch can make things easier
For international students, opening an account in person can be simpler because a bank employee can review your documents and tell you immediately if anything else is needed.
Northeastern’s Office of Global Services recommends visiting a branch with two forms of identification and proof of a local address.
It can also help to bring additional immigration documents you already have with you in case a bank requests more information, but documents such as an I-20 or DS-2019 are not universal requirements for opening a bank account.
Compare the account before you open it
Before choosing a bank, check:
- nearby branches and ATM access
- monthly maintenance fees
- minimum balance requirements
- overdraft policies and fees
- international transfer options
The closest bank is not automatically the best option if the account comes with fees or conditions that do not work for you.
Getting money from home?
If your family will send money from abroad, ask the bank exactly what information the sender will need.
That may include your:
- account number
- ABA routing number
- SWIFT or BIC code
- bank name and address
- bank-specific international wire instructions
International wire fees and exchange-rate costs can vary, so check those before transferring money.
The Bzz take
Your first U.S. bank account should make everyday life easier.
Pick an account that works around your campus and neighborhood, understand the fees before opening it and bring the full document set your bank asks for.
Information checked Sept. 4, 2026. Identification, account and fee requirements vary by bank and can change. Confirm the current requirements directly with the bank before applying.
