If you don’t have a Social Security Number, an ITIN
(Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is your
key to building credit in the United States. Millions
of immigrants have used an ITIN to open bank accounts,
get credit cards, and establish a strong U.S. credit
profile from scratch.

Here is exactly how to do it.

What is an ITIN?

An ITIN is a tax processing number issued by the IRS
to individuals who are not eligible for a Social
Security Number. It is a 9-digit number that begins
with the number 9. You can use an ITIN to file taxes,
open bank accounts, and apply for credit cards — even
without U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.

Who Can Get an ITIN?

You can apply for an ITIN if you are a non-resident
alien required to file a U.S. tax return, a resident
alien filing a U.S. tax return, a dependent or spouse
of a U.S. citizen or resident alien, or a dependent
or spouse of a non-resident alien visa holder.

How to Apply for an ITIN

Step 1: Complete IRS Form W-7. Download it free from
irs.gov.

Step 2: Gather your documents. You need proof of
identity (passport is the best option — it serves as
both identity and foreign status proof) and proof of
foreign status.

Step 3: Submit your application. You can mail it
directly to the IRS, visit an IRS Taxpayer Assistance
Center in person, or use an IRS-authorized Certifying
Acceptance Agent (CAA).

Step 4: Wait for processing. The IRS typically issues
ITINs within 6 to 11 weeks.

How to Build Credit Once You Have an ITIN

Step 1: Open a secured credit card that accepts ITIN.
The best options are Capital One Quicksilver Secured,
Firstcard, Self Visa, and OpenSky Secured Visa.

Step 2: Use the card for small purchases every month.
Keep your balance below 30% of your credit limit at
all times.

Step 3: Pay your full balance on time every single
month. Payment history is 35% of your credit score —
it is the single most important factor.

Step 4: After 6 months, check your credit score. Most
immigrants see their first FICO score within 3 to 6
months of opening their first account.

Step 5: After 12 months of good history, apply for an
unsecured card with better rewards and a higher limit.

How Long Does It Take?

Most people establish a scoreable credit file within 3
to 6 months. Reaching a 700+ score from zero typically
takes 12 to 18 months of consistent on-time payments
and low credit utilization.

Which Banks Accept ITIN?

Major banks that accept ITIN include Bank of America,
Capital One, Chase (select cards), Citibank (select
cards), and Wells Fargo. Fintech companies like
Firstcard, Current, and Self were built specifically
for people without SSN and are often the easiest
starting point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does having an ITIN affect my immigration status?
No. The IRS issues ITINs strictly for tax purposes.
Having an ITIN does not change your immigration status
or authorize you to work in the U.S.

Can I build credit with an ITIN the same way as with
an SSN?
Yes. Once you have an ITIN and open a credit account
that reports to the credit bureaus, your credit history
builds exactly the same way as it does for any U.S.
citizen.

Can I upgrade from an ITIN to an SSN?
Yes. If you later become eligible for an SSN, you can
notify the IRS and your credit history will be
transferred to your new SSN.

Is my credit history lost if I leave the U.S. and
come back?
Your U.S. credit history stays in the U.S. credit
bureau system as long as your accounts remain open.
If you return after a period abroad, your history
should still be there.