Question 1

What does an immigrant need before applying for a credit card?

Accepted Answer

Knowing the steps in the process might help make applying for a credit card as an immigrant easier. Credit history: U.S. credit card issuers typically look at your credit report and credit score when deciding whether to approve you for a credit card. If you don't already have a credit card or another credit account—like a car loan or home loan—that has been open in your name for at least six months, you might not have any credit history in the U.S. credit reporting system. Even if you've opened an account recently, you may not yet have a credit score. It may take several months or more of credit use to build your credit. If you're not new to managing credit and you've established credit in a different country, keep in mind that differences in credit reporting systems mean your international credit might not transfer to the U.S. Some services may be able to help you transfer international credit history to the U.S., but you should always make sure a company is legitimate before giving them sensitive information or showing documents like your ID card. Social Security number or ITIN: While most credit card issuers ask for a Social Security number to verify your identity and check your credit history, applying for some credit cards without a Social Security number is possible. A credit card company may instead request an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), which the IRS (not the Social Security Administration) may issue to individuals who are still ineligible for a Social Security card. In some states, you may also be able to use your ITIN to qualify for other documents, like a driver's license or state ID card.

Question 2

Can an undocumented immigrant apply for a credit card?

Accepted Answer

Having undocumented status may make it more difficult to apply for and receive a credit card in the U.S. However, some banks and issuers allow undocumented immigrants to apply regardless of immigration status. You may be able to apply with a passport or other identification instead of a Social Security number or ITIN.

Question 3

What kinds of credit cards are available for foreigners, non-U.S. citizens, and international students?

Accepted Answer

Immigrants to the U.S. may have several options for acquiring a credit card. Your options typically depend on your particular financial situation. Some of the more common credit card options for immigrants may include: Becoming an authorized user: One option to start building credit history may be becoming an authorized user on a friend or family member's credit card, as long as the creditor reports to the credit bureaus. This means you get a physical card with your name on it and may make purchases, with the charges appearing on the main user's account. Check to see whether the credit card issuer has specific immigration status requirements for authorized users. Remember that if the primary cardmember on this account fails to make payments on time, that adverse credit history may also be reflected on the authorized user's credit report. Secured credit cards: If you lack credit history in the U.S. or have poor credit preventing you from qualifying for standard cards, you might consider applying for a secured credit card. A secured credit card works the same as a standard credit card account, but it requires a cash deposit upon approval. Unlike a debit card or prepaid credit card, a secured card gives you access to a line of credit and may report your activity to a credit bureau, so it affects your credit score. Unsecured credit cards: If you have a U.S. credit history, you may qualify for an unsecured credit card with rewards such as cash back, like the Discover it Cash Back Credit Card. Unlike a secured card, an unsecured credit card doesn't require a deposit. There are many types of unsecured credit cards to choose from, especially once you build your good credit score. Student credit cards: According to the Department of Homeland Security, international students in the U.S. may be eligible for a Social Security number. This may qualify you for a student credit card if you meet the creditor's requirements. With responsible use, student cards are a great way to build a strong history of credit when you graduate.

Can New Immigrants Get a Credit Card?

Key Takeaways

See if you're pre-approved

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