Banking in United States
Best banks in United States for expats & digital nomads
Opening a bank account is one of the first things you do after moving to United States. Here are the accounts that work for newcomers and non-residents, plus the fintech we would set up before you fly.
How to open a bank account in United States
Non-residents can open personal accounts at the major US banks but usually need a US physical address plus an SSN or an ITIN (issued by the IRS to those not eligible for an SSN); without one, fintechs are the practical route. Big banks generally require an in-person branch visit, with a passport and proof of both home-country and US address.
Wise multi-currency account
Wise is the option we recommend for almost anyone moving to United States: hold and convert 40+ currencies, get local account details to be paid like a local, and send money at the real exchange rate with low, transparent fees. It works before you even arrive, so you can receive income and pay deposits while your local account is still being set up.
Open a free Wise account →Affiliate link: we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Wise is a fintech, not a bank; balances are safeguarded, not covered by deposit insurance.
Top banks in United States
Chase (JPMorgan Chase)
traditionalLargest US bank by branches; accepts ITIN in place of SSN, but non-residents generally must open in person at a branch.
Bank of America
traditionalRuns a dedicated 'new to the US' program and recommends its Advantage Banking accounts for non-residents; branch appointment usually required.
Wells Fargo
traditionalRequires an SSN or ITIN plus a US physical address; non-permanent residents apply in person at a branch.
Citibank
traditionalStrong global network; can be easier if you already bank with Citi abroad. Accepts ITIN; branch visit typically required.
U.S. Bank
traditionalListed among banks that open accounts for ITIN holders; in-person visit generally needed for non-residents.
Capital One
digitalCapital One 360 Checking has no monthly fee and opens online, but still requires an SSN or ITIN and a US address.
International accounts & neobanks
Operates in the US since 2020; app-based multi-currency account and card, fully remote onboarding.
Remote onboarding for freelancers and marketplace sellers; provides US receiving details for USD payments.
US business banking only (for a US LLC/corp); non-resident founders can open fully remotely with an EIN, no SSN required.
Availability changes; confirm on each provider's site.
Next steps in United States
See the full United States tax, cost and visa profile, or compare United States with other destinations. Not sure where to go yet? Take the finder quiz.