Most US banks will not open an account for you as a tourist, but some options exist

The short answer: most major US banks require a Social Security number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), a US address, and proof of residency. Tourists typically have none of these. Some banks have workarounds — a few accept passport and visa documentation instead — but these are exceptions, not the standard path.

If you are visiting the US and need to move money or pay bills, you have better options than trying to force a traditional bank account. A prepaid card, a money transfer service, or a temporary account at a bank that caters to international visitors will get you functional access to funds faster than fighting may be able to access requirements.

Key Takeaways

  • Most US banks require a Social Security number and a US address; tourists have neither, so standard checking and savings accounts are closed to you.
  • Some banks accept ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) instead of SSN, but you must obtain an ITIN before you can open the account.
  • Prepaid cards, international money transfer services, and wire transfers are faster and simpler for short-term access to funds while visiting.
  • A few banks offer accounts specifically for international visitors, but availability and terms vary by location and visa type.

Why banks reject tourist applications

A Social Security number is the primary identifier US banks use to verify identity and run background checks. It is also how the bank reports account activity to the IRS for tax purposes. Without one, the bank cannot complete its standard onboarding process.

The second barrier is proof of US residency. Banks typically ask for a utility bill, lease, mortgage statement, or government-issued ID with a US address. A passport and hotel confirmation do not meet this requirement. The bank needs to know you have a permanent address where they can send statements and reach you if there is a problem.

The third issue is OFAC compliance. The Office of Foreign Assets Control maintains lists of individuals and entities the US government has sanctioned. Banks must screen all customers against these lists. For tourists, this screening is more complex because the bank cannot verify your address or background as easily.

Banks that accept ITIN instead of Social Security number

An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a nine-digit number the IRS issues to people who need to file taxes but do not have a Social Security number. Some banks accept ITIN as an alternative to SSN. This route works only if you have time to obtain an ITIN before opening the account.

To get an ITIN, you must file Form W-7 with the IRS. You can file by mail (which takes 4 to 6 weeks) or in person at an IRS office or an IRS-authorized acceptance agent (which takes 1 to 2 weeks). You will need your passport and proof of your reason for needing an ITIN — for example, a letter from an employer or a school enrollment letter.

Banks known to accept ITIN include some branches of Citibank, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo, but policy varies by branch and changes over time. Call ahead to confirm the specific branch you plan to visit accepts ITIN accounts. Even if they do, you will still need to provide a US address — a hotel address may work, but ask first.

Prepaid cards and international money transfer services

A prepaid card is faster and simpler than a bank account. You load money onto the card (either before you arrive or once you are here) and use it like a debit card at ATMs and merchants. Most prepaid cards do not require a Social Security number, US address, or proof of residency.

Services like Wise (formerly TransferWise), OFX, and MoneyGram let you transfer money from your home country to a US account or pick up cash at a location in the US. These services verify your identity using your passport and are designed for people without US bank accounts. Fees vary — Wise typically charges 1 to 2 percent for international transfers, while MoneyGram charges a flat fee plus a percentage depending on the amount and destination.

If you need to receive a wire transfer from abroad, you can do so without a bank account by using a service like Western Union or MoneyGram. The sender initiates the transfer, and you pick up the cash at a physical location using your passport as ID.

Accounts for international visitors at specific banks

A small number of banks offer accounts designed for international visitors or students. Bank of America has a Global Entry account for international customers; Citibank offers accounts for people with Citibank relationships in other countries. These accounts typically require a minimum deposit (often $1,000 to $2,500) and proof that you have a Citibank account in your home country.

Requirements still include a valid passport and visa, proof of your US address (even if temporary), and sometimes a letter from your employer or school. Processing takes 1 to 2 weeks. These accounts are not widely advertised, so you may need to visit a branch in person or call the international banking department to ask whether they offer them.

Availability depends on your country of origin and visa status. Some banks prioritize customers from certain countries or those on student or work visas. Tourist visas are lower priority. Ask directly at the bank rather than assuming you are ineligible.

Wire transfers and international payment methods

If someone in the US needs to send you money, a wire transfer is the fastest method. The sender goes to their bank and provides your name, passport number, and the amount. The money arrives in 1 to 2 business days. You do not need a bank account to receive a wire transfer — you can pick it up at a Western Union or MoneyGram location using your passport.

For ongoing payments (rent, utilities, bills), ask the service provider whether they accept international payment methods. Many accept credit cards, PayPal, or international bank transfers. If you have a credit card from your home country, that is often the simplest way to pay US bills while you are visiting.

If you need to send money back to your home country, use Wise, OFX, or your home bank's international transfer service. These are cheaper than wire transfers and faster than checks. Fees typically range from 1 to 3 percent of the amount transferred.

What to bring if you attempt to open an account

If you find a bank willing to work with you, bring your valid passport, your visa or entry stamp, and proof of your temporary US address (a hotel confirmation, Airbnb booking, or letter from the person whose address you are using). Bring your ITIN if you have one; if not, ask whether the bank will accept an ITIN process in progress.

Some banks ask for a reference from a bank in your home country or a letter from your employer. Call the specific branch before you visit to ask what documents they need. Do not assume that because one branch accepts international accounts, all branches do — policy varies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my hotel address to open a bank account?

Some banks accept a hotel address as temporary proof of residency, but most prefer a residential address. If you are staying with a friend or family member, ask the bank whether you can use their address with a letter from them confirming you live there. Call ahead rather than showing up with documents that might not work.

What if I am on a work visa instead of a tourist visa?

Work visa holders have a better chance of opening a bank account because they have a US address (their employer's or their own) and often have an ITIN or Social Security number. Bring your visa, passport, employment letter, and proof of your US address. Banks are more willing to work with people who have a clear reason to be in the country long-term.

Can I open an account online as a tourist?

Most online banks require a Social Security number and US address during signup. Some may accept ITIN, but you will still need to provide a US address. Online banks do not have the flexibility of in-person branches, so your options are more limited. Call the bank's customer service line to ask before you start the process.

How long does it take to get an ITIN?

By mail, 4 to 6 weeks. In person at an IRS office or authorized acceptance agent, 1 to 2 weeks. If you are visiting for a short trip, getting an ITIN is not practical. A prepaid card or money transfer service is faster.

What is the cheapest way to access money as a tourist?

If you already have a credit card from your home country, use it at ATMs and merchants — you will pay an ATM fee (usually $2 to $5) and a currency conversion fee (typically 1 to 3 percent). If you need to receive money from abroad, Wise is usually cheaper than Western Union or MoneyGram. If you need to send money home, Wise is also the cheapest option for most countries.