Can I open a bank account online if I am not a US citizen?

Can Non-US Citizens Open US Bank Accounts Online?

As a non-US citizen, opening a bank account in the United States is possible, although it may come with certain requirements. One of the key factors to consider is whether the bank offers online account opening services for non-citizens.

Bank of America

One prominent bank that allows non-citizens to open accounts online is Bank of America. To do so, you will need to meet the following requirements:

• Two forms of valid identification, such as a passport or driver’s license
• A Tax Identification Number (TIN), such as a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
• Proof of both a foreign and a U.S. address

Documentation Required

When opening a bank account online as a non-US citizen with Bank of America, it is crucial to have the necessary documentation readily available. This includes:

• Identification: A valid passport, driver’s license, or other government-issued photo ID
• TIN: An SSN or ITIN. If you do not have an SSN, you can apply for an ITIN from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
• Foreign Address Proof: A utility bill, bank statement, or government document showing your current residential address outside the United States.
• US Address Proof: A utility bill, bank statement, or lease agreement showing your current residential address in the United States.

Process

To open a Bank of America account online as a non-US citizen:

1. Visit the Bank of America website and select the “Open an Account” option.
2. Choose the account type that suits your needs.
3. Complete the online application, providing the required information and uploading the necessary documents.
4. Submit the application for review.

Additional Considerations

• Eligibility: Not all banks offer online account opening services for non-citizens. It is important to check with individual banks to determine their policies.
• Fees: Some banks may charge fees for opening or maintaining accounts for non-US citizens.
• Minimum Balance: Banks may require non-US citizens to maintain a minimum balance in their accounts.
• Limitations: Non-US citizens may face certain limitations on the types of accounts they can open or the services they can access.

By fulfilling the requirements and gathering the necessary documentation, non-US citizens can successfully open bank accounts in the United States online. However, it is essential to thoroughly understand the terms and conditions of the bank before proceeding.