The overall process of obtaining a credit card as a non-citizen in the United States can appear daunting, especially without a Social Security number. However, international students can get credit with credit cards without needing social security information. Here, we’ll provide more on different credit card options for non-citizen students in the U.S.
The key to acquiring student credit cards in the U.S. is knowing which cards you’re eligible for and understanding their requirements. Before we look at the different international student credit cards available, let’s look at the challenges non-citizen students face when getting a credit card!
First, you need to look at the requirements set by the credit issuer carefully and thoroughly because the requirements for each credit issuer vary. For instance, most credit companies in the U.S. require a social security number, whereas others waive this requirement. Holders of F-1 or J-1 visas can apply for a social security number via the Social Security Administration (SSA) to ease the process of acquiring a credit card.
Another challenge international students encounter is the need for a bank account in the U.S. Before getting a credit card, you need to open an account. Obtaining a bank account in the U.S. makes it easier to manage and keep track of personal finances. For example, you can easily monitor what you have and what you owe.
Let’s dive in!
Non-citizen students pursuing higher education in the U.S. can get credit cards without a Social Security number or extended credit history from the card issuers. Below are credit card options you can consider:
The Deserve EDU Mastercard is an excellent option for students because it doesn’t require applicants to provide a Social Security Number. The credit card is best for Amazon Prime benefits, and other perks such as:
Generally, the Deserve EDU Mastercard for students won’t charge any security deposit or annual fee. In addition to the benefits mentioned above, students are also eligible for US$30 in rewards for every referral.
International students can acquire a Petal-2 visa credit card from WebBank. You can apply for a credit card without a Social Security number. However, you must provide an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). ITIN is a federal income tax reporting requirement for non-citizens and international students.
International students with ITIN can apply for Petal-2 Visa Credit Card and begin earning 1% back on total spending. Continued use of the card increases the cash back to 1.25 percent in six months and 1.5% after 12 months of on-time payments.
Petal-2 visa credit card comes with a minimum credit limit of US$300 up to US$10,000, depending on creditworthiness. The credit card is user-friendly as it doesn’t charge an annual or foreign transaction fee. Above that, the company has a mobile app that allows you to pay on the go and keep track of your spending. Petal-e visa credit card is best for a flat cash back reward.
Why consider this credit card:
Are you looking for a credit card for your everyday spending? Look no further than Capital One Quicksilver student cash rewards offering enticing 1.5% cash back on all everyday purchases. The credit card launched in August 2021, and international students can apply with an ITIN rather than using a Social Security Number. In addition, credit cards are accessible for students with fair credit bureaus.
The Capital One Quicksilver Student Cash Rewards offers one of the most competitive reward rates on the student credit card. Cardholders are eligible to earn a flat 1.5% cash back. You can choose varying options in which you prefer to receive your cash back rewards. Options available include gift cards, checks, statement credits, or applying rewards directly to new purchases.
Why choose it:
The Capital One SavorOne Cash back reward launched in August 2021 and is an excellent option for students seeking to incorporate credit cards in dining and entertainment. International students can acquire a credit card with an ITIN.
The credit card offers 3% cash back on select categories, including entertainment, streaming services, dining, and grocery stores (excluding Walmart and Target).
Apart from rewards from select merchants, the Capital One SavorOne reward for students integrates unlimited 1% cash back on general purchases. In addition, students can build up cash rewards for an extended time since the cash back rewards generated with Capital One credit cards don’t expire.
Why select it:
International students in America can apply for the Journey Student Rewards from Capital One using an ITIN in lieu of a Social Security number. Cardholders receive 1% back in rewards. Additionally, they can enjoy 1.25% back once they process their credit card bill on time.
International students can benefit from this credit card that features no foreign transaction fee/ annual charge. In addition, Capital One usually reviews the credit card account for credit line increases after six months of purchase activity.
Why choose it:
Non-citizen students can apply for a Chase freedom student credit card using an ITIN without providing a Social Security number. The credit card offers flat 1% cash back on daily spending. Card owners can also enjoy 5% cash back on Lyft and a US$50 sign-up bonus upon initial purchase after opening the account.
The Chase Freedom credit card for students charges a 3% foreign transaction fee, unlike other credit cards with free foreign transactions. However, international students can access their credit scores for free with Chase’s Credit Journey program and the card has no annual fee. In addition, you’ll earn US$20 in Good Standing Rewards yearly for the account anniversary.
Why choose this credit card:
Some practices can optimize your chances of obtaining a credit card for international students.
Students studying abroad can garner many benefits from a credit card. Below are some of these benefits;
International students are eligible for credit cards if the credit card issuer accepts Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to substitute Social Security number. Students with limited credit history may need additional consideration for approval for credit card applications, i.e. cosigner, proof of income, etc.
The best credit card for non-citizen students studying in the United States is one that provides high rewards on purchases, charges no foreign transaction fees, and is eligible for students without a Social Security number. Examples of such cards include: Deserve EDU Mastercard, Capital One SavorOne rewards for students, and Capital One Quicksilver reward credit cards for international students.
Yes. Some credit card companies accept ITIN as a substitute for Social Security numbers for international student credit card applications.
Credit card companies such as Capital One, Discover, and Chase issue credit cards to international students without SSNs. International students without SSNs can consider students credit card issuers who accept ITIN instead of SSNs.
Before selecting a particular credit card company, weigh the options available. Different credit card issuers integrate a varying set of requirements and rewards. International students seeking the best credit card can consider companies like Discover, Capital One, Deserve, and Bank of America. Wrapping up, ensure you choose the best option for you!
*Information accurate as of March 2023
https://www.forbes.com/advisor/credit-cards/best/student/
https://educationusa.state.gov/your-5-steps-us-study/apply-your-student-visa/short-term
https://www.wes.org/advisor-blog/building-your-credit/
Credit cards are some of the best financial tools available to international students in the U.S. You can have access to cash during emergencies or take advantage of rewards or cash-back programs to save money. With so many options available, it is important to select the right card for your needs.
In this article, we will be sharing everything you need to know about selecting the best credit cards for international students in the US.
Like with any credit card, this type of card allows you to make purchases, earn rewards and even withdraw cash from ATMs when necessary.
However, international student cards are designed specifically for non-US citizens studying in the US. Some of these cards allow you to transfer funds from your home country with no added fees, making them a great option for international students. With these benefits, international students have the opportunity to experience financial independence during their time studying abroad.
No matter how many benefits a credit card offers, if you don’t use them responsibly, you can end up with a pile of debt. That is why it’s important to know the features and benefits that come with any credit card before signing up, and to use them responsibly.
Here are some of the benefits of using an international student credit card:
Access to Cash: Credit cards can be a great financial security blanket. With the ability to access cash from ATMs worldwide, you’re never too far away from help in case of an unexpected emergency or everyday purchase. Just keep in mind that some may charge a fee for utilizing this feature – so make sure to check terms before using this facility.
Lower-Interest Rates: International student credit cards offer the perfect solution for those studying abroad – not only do they provide more flexibility with their global acceptance, but also boast lower interest rates than many traditional credit cards.
Rewards and Cash-Back Programs: Most secured credit cards come with rewards or cash-back programs that allow you to earn cash rewards or points for every purchase you make. You can then use these points to get discounts on future purchases or even redeem them for products and services.
Credit Building: One of the best parts of having a credit card is that it can help you build your credit. By making timely payments and staying within your credit limit, you can slowly increase your credit score over time. This is great news for international students who may not have a lot of options when it comes to building their credit in the US.
*Note: Just as we mentioned earlier, the risks of having a credit card cannot be overlooked by the benefits mentioned above. It is important to use your credit card responsibly and not overspend, or you may end up in a lot of debt.
Now let’s look at some of the factors you should consider when shopping for one of these credit cards.
Annual fees are the price that you pay to use and maintain the credit card. Most credit card issuers, however, don’t charge annual fees for an international student credit card. If a card does have an annual fee, make sure you read the terms and conditions carefully to ensure that it is worth paying.
A foreign transaction fee is a fee you pay for using your credit card in a different country. Most international student credit cards do not have a foreign transaction fee, so make sure to check this before signing up for a card.
One downside of secured credit cards is that the credit limit can be quite low, making it hard to make large purchases. But since you are a student, you might not need a large credit limit. If you still need a higher credit line, make sure to talk to the card issuer and see if you can increase your credit limit.
Just as we mentioned earlier, most credit card companies offer rewards or cash-back programs for international students. This is a great way to save money on future purchases or even redeem them for products and services. However, make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully before signing up for any rewards program!
Since it’s a secured credit card, you have to provide a security deposit when you sign up. This amount is usually determined by the card issuer, so make sure to ask about this before signing up. On average, it’s around $500 to $2,000.
Make sure to consider your own needs and spending habits when looking for the best international student credit card. After all, it’s important to find a card that fits your lifestyle and budget. Make sure to follow a budget and only use a credit card when absolutely necessary.
Every credit card company is different and has different requirements for international students. For example, some companies might need you to submit your SSN to apply for a credit card, while others might just need copies of your passport and visa. Some might also require you to submit your individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN). Make sure to read the requirements for each card carefully before applying.
One of the major requirements for getting approved for a credit card is having a good credit history. If you don’t have any credit history, make sure to start building yours by making small purchases and paying them off on time. Credit bureaus like Experian and TransUnion can be a great way to check your credit score and make sure it is up to date.
These are some of the factors you should consider when shopping for a student credit card. Make sure to do your research, compare different cards, and read the terms and conditions carefully before signing up. And remember, use your credit card responsibly, and don’t overspend! Good luck on your journey to building a strong credit score and financial future in the US.
Financing for higher education in the U.S. can be very expensive. The average cost of tuition and fees for one year of college is over US$25,000. Plus, there are other expenses like textbooks, housing, food, and transportation that need to be factored into the equation.
Having a credit card can help international students make purchases without having to worry about carrying money and paying extra currency exchange fees. Timely repayment of these accounts can also help them build a credit history in the U.S., which is important if they want to apply for loans or other types of financing in the future.
If you’re in the U.S. and want to get a credit card, this article will shed light on everything you need to know about international student credit cards and how to apply for one.
A student credit card is a type of card that is specifically designed for students. It usually has lower interest rates, fewer fees, and may even come with rewards or additional benefits such as cash back on your purchases.
Student credit cards can be great for helping international students manage their finances while studying abroad in the U.S. when used properly – for example, avoiding overspending and making sure to pay off your balance in full every month.
However, it is important to note that most student credit cards require applicants to have a social security number or a U.S. address.
Credit cards for international students are similar to any other credit card in that they provide you with access to a line of credit. When you make a purchase, the money is automatically withdrawn from your card and then it is paid back at a later date with interest.
The difference between an international student credit card and a regular one is that most international student cards come with extra special features designed with the user in mind, such as travel and purchase protection, no foreign transaction fees, special student discounts, and more.
You can use the credit card for everyday purchases, such as groceries, gas, or even rent. However, international students should be careful not to use the card for purchases that they cannot afford because it could lead to unmanageable debt and damage their credit scores.
Here are some of the things that should be considered when choosing an international student credit card:
Most international students don’t even need a credit card, but still want one because everyone else has one. First and foremost, determine whether you need it or not. If yes, define your priorities. These could include:
Ask yourself these questions, and if you find there is a genuine need for a card, consider the best option for you.
While it is always ideal to pay off your outstanding balance to avoid interest, you should be aware of how your minimum payment obligation is calculated. At a minimum, lenders will require you to pay at least 1% of the balance back plus the interest that has accrued. However, some lenders may require you to pay 5-10% of the principal balance back every period.
A foreign transaction fee is a fee that is imposed when you purchase something in another country. Most international student credit cards waive these fees, so be sure to check the terms and conditions of the card before you apply.
An annual fee is the money you pay for the privilege of using a credit card every year.
Annual fees are an important part of a credit card, so you should check if there is one, and what the cost will be. Many international student cards have no annual fees, but if the one you’re considering does, keep in mind that it can add up over time because you pay the fee whether you use the card or not.
The most important factor to consider when choosing a credit card is the interest rate. Credit cards for international students often come with lower interest rates than regular credit cards, but it’s still important to compare different offers and select the one that has the lowest rate.
Interest charges can often be avoided if you pay off your outstanding balance every month. Interest accrues based on the interest rate in your agreement; the faster you can pay off the balance, the less interest you will incur on your account.
Before anything else, you will need a bank account to apply for a credit card. This can be complicated and time-consuming for international students, so make sure to check if the issuer offers an easy way to open an account.
Every credit card company is different and has different requirements for applicants. Before applying, make sure you meet all the requirements such as having a valid passport and SSN. One company might need SSN, but other companies might not require it – if you have a certain requirement restriction – so make sure to do your research.
Additional benefits such as cash rewards and travel points are nice features to have with a credit card, so check if the card you’re considering has any additional benefits. Every card has different features so compare them and see which one offers the most value for you. For example, a cash rewards credit card might be better for you than a travel points card.
Before you apply for a credit card, read the terms and conditions carefully. This will help you understand what fees, requirements, or restrictions are associated with the card before you commit to it.
Major credit bureaus such as Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion offer free credit reports. Check your credit report to see if there are any errors or discrepancies that could affect your chances of getting a credit card.
It’s important to compare different credit cards and pick one that best suits your needs. You can use comparison websites or ask a financial advisor for help in choosing the best credit card for you. You can also ask your friends and family members for their recommendations.
Once you have narrowed down your options, make sure to read the fine print and thoroughly understand all the terms and conditions before finally submitting your application.
These are the most important things to consider when choosing a credit card as an international student. We hope this guide will help you find the best card for you!
If you are an international student in the U.S., understanding the requirements and restrictions for credit cards is critical. Credit cards are an important part of financial independence and security, so it’s important to know what your options are.
Having a credit line can be especially helpful as an international student because timely repayments on these accounts can help you build your credit score and establish a financial record.
However, getting approved for a credit card can be more difficult for international students than it is for U.S. citizens. So, it’s always a good idea to do your research and find out what the requirements are before you apply.
In this article, we will discuss the requirements and restrictions for international students looking to get a credit card in the U.S.
International students can apply for a credit card from a number of card issuers even if they don’t have a Social Security number (more on this later). Depending on your exact circumstances, this could be relatively easy or a significant challenge. If you don’t have any luck with a traditional credit card, or if you prefer to skip that option, an alternative could be a “secured credit card.”
A secured credit card allows students from abroad to establish credit in the U.S. It is called a “secured” credit card because it requires the student to provide a security deposit to obtain it. This makes it easier for students to access funds.
The security deposit can be anywhere from US$500 – US$1,000 depending on the card issuer, and is often based on the amount of credit the student wants to have available. The main benefit of an international student credit card like this is that it helps the user build a positive payment history on their reports. This credit history can then help them secure loans, mortgages, and other lines of credit in the future.
International secured credit cards also often come with special benefits like discounts on travel expenses and cash-back rewards. Additionally, many cards charge low or no annual fees and offer competitive interest rates.
The requirements might vary depending on the issuing bank, but here are some of the common requirements for international students:
The first requirement for most credit card companies is having a U.S. bank account. You will need to provide the bank details to get the credit card. Also, it will be easier to manage your finances if you have a U.S. bank account. So make sure to do some research and get a bank account before applying for a credit card.
A secured card needs a security deposit. The bank usually requires the student to put down a minimum amount, which is usually between US$500 – US$1,000. However, it can vary from credit card company to credit card company, so make sure to read the terms and conditions before applying.
There are three major credit bureaus in the U.S., which are Equifax, Experian, and TransUnion. A credit card company issuing a non secured card will check the credit history of those who apply, including international students, to make sure they are able to manage their finances responsibly while in the U.S. A good credit score increases the likelihood that the applicant will be approved.
Although it’s not necessarily a requirement, it’s a good idea for international students to show proof of employment when applying for a credit card. Having a job in the U.S. can help increase the chances of getting approved, and it also demonstrates that the applicant is financially stable. Some companies might need you to show your individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) as well.
Unsecured credit card providers will need to evaluate your ability to repay the outstanding balance, and may require a cosigner if you do not have regular income from employment.
Some credit card issuers will require international students to provide a U.S. Social Security number (SSN) in order to apply for the card. An SSN is also required for reporting taxes, so make sure you have one before applying for your credit card. If you don’t have your SSN yet, there may be alternative ways to prove your identity and creditworthiness to the company.
International students must hold a valid visa or residency permit in the U.S. in order to be eligible for an international student credit card.
These are some common requirements that international students must meet in order to be eligible for an international student credit card. Some credit card companies might have higher requirements, so make sure to read the terms and conditions before applying.
Now that we know the requirements for international students, it’s important to understand the restrictions that come with many credit cards.
Most banks take a few weeks to review applications and complete the approval process. Since you are an international student, the process may take a little bit longer. There are certain protocols and procedures that must be adhered to, and this might mean a longer wait for the approval.
Although there are some competitive interest rates and fees, international students might have to pay higher than the average rate due to their lack of credit history. Make sure you do research and compare different cards before applying for one.
Another restriction associated with international student credit cards is the low credit limit. This means that even if you are approved, the bank might issue a card with a low initial credit limit. Low limits mean not being able to spend too much money and using only what you need – which isn’t always a bad thing!
International students may have to pay higher minimum payments than other cardholders. Make sure to check the terms and conditions of your credit card before using it in order to know how much you have to pay on a regular basis.
Here are some of the things to consider before applying for an international student credit card:
Some credit cards may have annual fees that will affect your budget, so make sure to read the terms and conditions before signing up. The annual fee is the amount charged to use the card each year. Some card issuers do not charge annual fees.
Interest is the amount you pay on top of the balance you owe. Different banks will have different interest rates, so it’s important to compare and make sure you are getting the best deal.
Rewards and benefits vary depending on the credit card. Many cards offer points, cash back, travel rewards, and other perks that can be beneficial for international students. Make sure to research different cards before applying to find one with rewards that appeal to you.
Foreign transaction fees are charged when you make a purchase in another currency. Some credit cards may charge foreign transaction fees, so make sure to read the terms and conditions before signing up.
Late payment fees can add up quickly if you don’t pay your bill on time, so it’s important to set reminders or set up automatic payments to make sure you don’t miss any due dates. There is also a negative impact on your credit score for missing payments.
The higher your credit score, the more likely you are to get approved for credit cards and loans in the future. Making timely payments and staying within your limit can help build a strong credit history that will be beneficial in the long run.
International student credit cards can be a great way to build your credit score through repayment, earn rewards and get access to cash when needed. However, there are certain restrictions and fees associated with these cards that must be taken into account before signing up. Be sure to do research and compare different offers in order to get the best card for you.
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