“I recently got my 90-series ITIN and want to start my US credit journey. I'm planning to apply for a Capital One card as my first card. What credit cards do you suggest for a new ITIN holder with no prior US credit history?”
You can start building your US credit right away. Because these starter cards are designed for people with no credit history, your lack of a past record will not automatically disqualify you.
When you apply with an ITIN, the process is generally the same as applying with an SSN. You will need to provide your full legal name, date of birth, address, and proof of income.
You have two main paths for your first card: a or an unsecured starter card. Secured cards require a refundable security deposit upfront, which often becomes your credit limit. Unsecured cards do not require a deposit, but they can be slightly harder to qualify for.
Here is how to use your new ITIN to get a card and start building your credit score.
Choose a starter card that accepts ITINs
For Capital One, you can look at the Platinum Secured or Quicksilver Secured if you can pay a deposit. If you want an unsecured card, Capital One offers the Platinum and SavorOne cards, which are designed for people with no credit history. You can also consider the Chase Freedom Rise, which is an unsecured card that accepts ITINs and does not require a credit history.
Check if you are pre-approved
Many issuers let you check for pre-approval online before you formally apply. This gives you an idea of what you qualify for without hurting your credit score.
Submit your application
You can apply online, in person, or by phone using your ITIN instead of an SSN.
Use the card responsibly to build credit
Once approved, make your payments on time and keep your balances low.
You are not the first to go through this. Here is how it went for others who asked the same thing.
u/NothingJealous598r/personalfinanceJun 4, 2026
Here are the policies from major issuers and financial experts on applying for a credit card with an ITIN.
Capital One
Capital One and other issuers allow you to apply for a credit card using an ITIN instead of an SSN.
Some credit card issuers, including Capital One, let you apply for credit cards with an ITIN or become an authorized user on someone else’s card.
Capital One
You can apply for a credit card with an ITIN even if you have no US credit history.
If you don’t have an SSN or a credit history in the U.S., some credit card issuers let you apply for a credit card using an ITIN .
Capital One
Capital One offers unsecured cards specifically for applicants with no credit history.
Platinum card : An unsecured credit card for people with no credit history or fair credit scores .
NerdWallet
The Chase Freedom Rise is another unsecured option that accepts ITINs and does not require prior credit history.
The Chase Freedom Rise® doesn’t require a credit history, and you can apply with an ITIN number if you don’t have a Social Security number.
SettleKit is not a law firm. This is general information, not legal advice. You should consult a licensed immigration attorney for advice on your specific situation.
SettleKit is not a law firm and this is general information.
We research the hard parts of settling in the US and write articles you will not find anywhere else. Subscribe to get each new article by email.
