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Open a bank account with your passport
You usually don't have to wait for an SSN. US consumer-protection guidance is clear that a bank does not legally require an SSN to open an account. Many banks accept a passport plus an ITIN or another government ID. Call a few branches first and ask exactly what they accept for a newcomer — policies differ, and some big banks run dedicated "newcomer" or "international" programs. - 2
Get a prepaid phone plan (no credit needed)
Start with a prepaid SIM or eSIM — no credit check, no SSN, just an ID. It gives you the US phone number that banks, landlords and apps all ask for. Move to a contract plan later once you have credit history. - 3
Get a secured credit card to start building credit
Your home-country credit history doesn't come with you — in the US you start at zero. A secured credit cardis the standard first step: you place a refundable deposit (say $200–$500) that becomes your credit limit. Use it for a small recurring bill, pay it off in full every month, and a US credit score builds over time. Some banks offer "credit-builder" loans for the same purpose. - 4
Apply for your SSN if you're eligible
If you're here on a work visa you can usually apply for an SSN via the Social Security Administration. Once you have it, more options open up — postpaid phone plans, regular (unsecured) credit cards, and some leases get simpler. - 5
Use credit gently and pay on time
Two habits do most of the work: keep your balances low relative to your limit, and never miss a payment (set up autopay). After several months of this, you'll qualify for better cards, and renting and financing get much easier.
Please note:we're not financial advisors and bank policies, products and eligibility rules change often. Treat this as a friendly orientation, not financial advice — confirm the current details directly with the bank and official sources like the CFPB and the IRS (for ITINs).
Next steps
With banking sorted, tackle your California license and where to live, or jump back to the first-month checklist.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I open a US bank account without a Social Security Number?
Often yes. US consumer-protection guidance notes that a bank is not required to have an SSN to open an account — many banks accept an ITIN, a passport or other government ID instead. Policies vary by bank, so call ahead and ask what they accept for a newcomer or non-resident.
How do I build US credit when I just arrived with none?
Your foreign credit history doesn't transfer, so you start from zero. The most common first step is a secured credit card — you put down a refundable deposit that becomes your credit limit, then use it for small purchases and pay it off in full each month. Some banks also offer 'credit-builder' products. Over months of on-time payments, a US credit score builds.
Can I get a phone plan with no credit history?
Yes — prepaid (pay-as-you-go) plans need no credit check and no SSN, just an ID. Postpaid contract plans usually run a credit check, so many newcomers start prepaid and switch later once they have credit or an SSN.
What is an ITIN and do I need one?
An ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) is a tax-processing number for people who need to file US taxes but aren't eligible for an SSN. Some banks accept it in place of an SSN to open an account. Whether you need one depends on your situation — check the IRS guidance.