8 Best Credit Cards Without An SSN for International Students

A Social Security Number (SSN) is a unique nine-digit identification number issued by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and temporary residents.

An SSN was originally established to determine eligibility for the Social Security program, it is now also used by various government agencies, financial institutions, employers, and other entities to verify an individual’s identity and facilitate various transactions. More than 530 million SSNs have been issued to date.

Yes, international students can access most credit cards in the States. The process for some international students, however, may be more straightforward than others. Specifically, international students who are eligible for an SSN can easily access most credit cards and get them if they are able to prove that they have the income to make the monthly repayments. Those who are legally allowed to work on their student visas may be eligible for an SSN and can apply for one through the Social Security Administration (SSA).

On the other hand, there might be a few additional steps required for international students who are unable to get an SSN. Some card issuers accept ITIN as an alternative and many international students can get one by applying through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). You might even be able to find lenders that allow international students to get a credit card with their passport only. You can also check with your university if they are in partnership with any credit card company that you can apply to easily.

Can an F1 Student Get a Credit Card?

Some international students can get a credit card through an SSN.

International students on F-1 Student visas with permission to work in the U.S. from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) can apply for an SSN. You will need to provide documents that show your work-authorized immigration status, age, and identity. F-1 or M-1 students must also provide Form I-20 which is a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status. International students who work on campus are also required to submit a letter from their school confirming their current school status and their employment. Evidence like a recent payslip or a signed appointment letter must also be submitted.

Those without legal permission to work in the country can get a credit card with an ITIN. Following are the steps to obtain a credit card without an SSN.

International students who do not have an SSN can improve their chances of getting a credit card by the following ways:

Some credit card issuers allow you to apply with an ITIN. You can apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) if you are ineligible for an SSN, regardless of your student visa status. However, you will need to have a valid tax reason for needing an ITIN to be eligible for it.

To get an ITIN, you will be required to submit an application through Form W-7 to the IRS. Along with the application form, a certification letter, copy of identity document, copy of foreign status document, and copy of Form I-20 are also required. You can find all the relevant forms and the details on the IRS government website.

Applying for a credit card generally requires proof of income. You need to show that you earn enough to repay your debt or get a cosigner to apply with you if the company allows one. Earnings from a part-time job, a stipend, a paid internship, and even your bank account savings can qualify as a source of income. Some student cards also accept allowance from parents as a valid source of income.

Most credit card companies in the States consider an applicant’s credit history as one of the most important factors for approving the application. The terms and rates that an applicant gets on a card also mostly depend on how good their credit score is.

Secured credit cards may be a good option for international students to consider first as they do not require any credit history. However, you will need to use the card responsibly, make on-time payments, and keep a low credit utilization to build a good score over time.

There are also other ways to build a credit history as an international student like getting a secured loan or becoming an authorized user on someone else’s card.

If you are eligible for an SSN and ITIN, look for cards that don’t require either. Deserve® EDU Mastercard for Students is an example of a credit card that does not require either and accepts applicants with just the passport as a form of identity. Some companies are quite flexible in their eligibility requirements and it would be best to contact a few different ones to inquire about your eligibility.

You can also find out if your educational institution is in partnership with a credit card company which may make it simpler to get a card. Another option to access credit in the U.S. is to become an authorized user on someone else’s card who is a U.S. citizen or resident.

Managing your first credit card is an important step in establishing a good credit history. If managed properly, a credit card can be a useful financial tool.

Here are some tips to help you manage your first credit card responsibly:

• Understand your credit card terms: Know the interest rate, any annual fees, grace period, and what constitutes a late payment. Also, familiarize yourself with the penalties for late payments or going over your credit limit.
• Pay your bills on time: Your payment history has a significant impact on your credit score. Late payments can lead to fees and increased interest rates, and also negatively affect your credit score. Set reminders or automate your payments to ensure you don’t miss them.
• Pay More Than the Minimum Payment: If you can afford it, try to pay off your balance in full each month. If you can’t, at least pay more than the minimum due. Paying only the minimum can result in interest charges that increase your balance over time.
• Keep your balance low: Ideally, you should use less than 30% of your available credit limit. High credit card balances can lower your credit score and make it harder to pay off your balance.
• Avoid cash advances: Cash advances often come with high-interest rates and fees, making them an expensive form of borrowing.
• Don’t apply for too many cards: Every time you apply for credit, it can affect your credit score. If you apply for multiple credit cards within a short period of time, it can signal to lenders that you are a high-risk borrower.
• Use your card regularly: While it’s important not to overspend, using your card regularly is key to building your credit history. Just be sure to pay off your balance in full each month.
• Consider a secured card: If you’re having trouble qualifying for traditional credit cards, consider a secured credit card. These cards require a cash deposit as collateral, but they can help you build credit when used responsibly.