You do not need a Social Security Number (SSN), an ITIN, or a cash security deposit to get your first US credit card. Credit card approval depends on individual issuer underwriting models. While traditional banks usually require a taxpayer ID, several alternative credit card issuers specifically underwrite international students using your passport, student visa, and bank account.
“I've been in NYC for three months as a student and don't have an SSN or ITIN yet. I opened a TD Bank account and they offered a cash secured credit card, but I didn't take it. What's the best way to start growing my credit score and get a good first credit card?”
Summary
You made a fine choice skipping the secured card at TD Bank. You can apply for an unsecured card today using the bank account you already opened, and start building your US credit history immediately.
If you want to build credit faster, you can combine your new credit card with these other methods.
If you had a credit history in your home country, a service called Nova Credit allows immigrants from certain countries to use that history to apply for an American Express card in the US.
If you have a trusted friend or family member with good US credit, they can add you as an {"term": "authorized-user", "text": "authorized user"} on their account. You benefit from their on-time payments, provided their issuer reports authorized users to the credit bureaus.
Rent payments do not automatically build credit. However, you can use a third-party rent payment service or ask your property management company to report your on-time rent payments to the credit bureaus.
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What is blocked until you get an SSN
A secured credit card is not your only option, and it might not even work for you right now. Traditional secured cards usually require a taxpayer ID, like an SSN or ITIN, and proof of income from a job.
Online credit report monitoring is also blocked for now. Experian requires an SSN for online access. Without one, you must request your credit report by mail by sending a physical copy of your ID and utility bills.
Automated credit-building tools, like Experian Boost, explicitly require an SSN to use.
If you obtain on-campus employment and become eligible for an SSN, standard unsecured credit cards and automated credit-building tools become available to you.
Next steps
Since you already have a US bank account, you have the main requirement covered. Here is how to start your credit profile.
Apply for an alternative unsecured credit card
Look into issuers that underwrite international students without an SSN, ITIN, or security deposit, such as Zolve, Petal, or Neu. You will apply using your passport, student visa, school information, and your existing bank account.
Confirm the card reports to the credit bureaus
Before you accept the card, make sure the issuer reports your payment activity to the major US {"term": "credit-bureaus", "text": "credit bureaus"}. This is the only way the account will build your US credit history.
Pay your balance on time every month
Use the card for regular expenses and pay the full balance on time each month. Keep your {"term": "credit-utilization", "text": "credit utilization"} low to build a strong score.
Legal sources
The rules for credit building as an international student come from major credit bureaus and financial explainers.
NerdWallet
Alternative credit cards do not require a security deposit or a traditional credit history.
These so-called "alternative" credit cards dont require a security deposit, nor do they rely on the traditional FICO-based method of credit evaluation.
NerdWallet
Traditional secured cards typically require a taxpayer ID, a job, and a bank account.
You may need: ... A taxpayer ID number. ... A job. ... A bank account.
SettleKit is not a law firm. This is general information, not legal or financial advice. Confirm with a licensed professional.
SettleKit is not a law firm and this is general information.
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