How to get started
- Have your passport, visa documents and US address ready
- Apply online or in a branch
- Make an opening deposit if required
- Set up direct deposit with your employer
- Add your SSN to the account once you receive it
Pros
- Open online before you land
- Free debit card and Zelle
- No minimum balance
Cons
- Few physical branches
- Cash deposits via partner stores only
What to watch for
- Monthly fees and how to waive them
- ATM network and out-of-network fees
- How cash deposits work
Verdict
A practical first account for people who don’t have an SSN yet.
Frequently asked questions
Can I open it before I arrive?
Some online accounts allow it with a passport; check the provider’s requirements.
Is my money insured?
Look for FDIC insurance, which protects deposits at member banks up to legal limits.
Guides that mention it
- Moving to New York City: the newcomer’s guide
- Building a US credit score from zero
- Your first semester on an F-1 visa: a week-by-week checklist
- How to open a US bank account without an SSN
- Choosing a bank as an immigrant: what to compare before you open an account
- Moving to the US checklist: what to do before and after you land in the United States