10 Best Bank Accounts for Expats Moving to the US

Finding the best bank accounts for expats moving to the US is one of the first practical steps when starting life in the United States. You may need a bank account to receive your salary, pay rent, set up utilities, obtain a mobile phone plan, transfer money, and organize your new financial life.

The difficulty is that every bank has different identification, residency, and tax-number requirements. Some banks work with nonpermanent residents who have a foreign passport and proof of a US address, while others limit online applications to US citizens or lawful permanent residents.

The best bank accounts therefore depend on where you are in the relocation process. A newcomer waiting for a Social Security number has different needs from an established resident who wants fee-free ATM access while travelling internationally.

This guide compares 10 checking accounts using official bank information available in July 2026. We evaluated monthly fees, waiver requirements, identification flexibility, branch support, overdraft policies, international features and overall suitability for new arrivals.

 

Best US Bank Accounts for Expats at a Glance

Bank account	Best for	Monthly fee	Important newcomer consideration
Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking	Overall newcomer accessibility	$4.95 or $0	Bank of America provides an application route for non-US citizens and states that an SSN is not required, although other identification and tax information may be needed.
Wells Fargo Everyday Checking	In-person support for nonpermanent residents	$15 or $0	Non-US citizens without a US-issued taxpayer identification number may present government-issued identification showing nationality or residence.
Chase Total Checking	Everyday banking and branch access	$15 or $0	Chase publishes acceptable identification options for non-US citizens, including passports, consular identification cards and employment authorization cards.
HSBC Premier Checking	International professionals and existing HSBC clients	$0 when eligibility is maintained	Eligibility generally requires a qualifying relationship, such as $100,000 in eligible balances, $5,000 in monthly direct deposits or a qualifying HSBC mortgage.
U.S. Bank Smartly Checking	Eligible international transferees	$12 or $0	U.S. Bank Global Transition Solutions customers receive a monthly maintenance-fee waiver.
TD Complete Checking	East Coast residents and Canadian newcomers	$15 or $0	The standard online application asks for a Social Security number and one form of identification.
Citi Access Checking	Low direct-deposit threshold	$5 or $0	The account does not include paper check-writing privileges.
PNC Simple Checking	Avoiding overdraft fees	$5 or $0	Any qualifying direct deposit can waive the monthly service charge, and the account does not charge overdraft fees.
Capital One 360 Checking	Fee-free digital banking	$0	The account is limited to US citizens and lawful permanent residents who meet Capital One’s address, phone number, and tax-identification requirements.
Schwab Bank Investor Checking	Frequent international travellers	$0	The account must be linked to a Schwab One brokerage account. Schwab states that its US site is designed for US residents and that restrictions may apply to non-US residents.

Account terms and approval standards can change. Confirm documentation requirements and the latest fee schedule directly with the bank before applying.

 

Can an Expat Open a Bank Account in the US?

Yes. US citizenship is not universally required to open a checking account.

The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation states that many banks allow non-US citizens to open accounts. Depending on the institution, acceptable documents may include a foreign passport, consular identification card, Individual Taxpayer Identification Number or other government-issued identification.

Your immigration status also does not prevent qualifying deposits at an FDIC-insured bank from receiving deposit insurance. A person does not need to be a US citizen or resident to receive FDIC coverage. Deposits are generally insured up to at least $250,000 per depositor, per insured bank, for each account ownership category.

However, a bank may still ask for:

• A valid foreign passport
• A second form of identification
• Proof of a residential address
• A US visa or immigration document
• An SSN, ITIN or another tax identification number
• A US mobile number
• An opening deposit
• Employment, university or income information

Online applications tend to have stricter automated identity requirements. New arrivals without an SSN or established US address may have better results by scheduling an appointment at a branch.

 

How We Selected These Bank Accounts

This comparison prioritizes the issues that create the most friction during an international move:

Identification flexibility: Whether the bank publishes information for non-US citizens, foreign passport holders or applicants without an SSN.

Monthly cost: The standard maintenance fee and whether a new employee can reasonably avoid it through payroll deposits or a modest balance.

Branch support: Access to an in-person banker can be valuable when automated online verification cannot process foreign identification.

Overdraft policy: Accounts that decline transactions or do not charge overdraft fees can reduce the risk of expensive mistakes during the first few months.

International usefulness: Global account access, international transfers, foreign transaction fees and ATM policies were considered where relevant.

Eligibility transparency: We gave preference to banks that clearly publish account costs and newcomer documentation requirements.

No account is the universal winner. The rankings reflect specific relocation needs rather than the size or popularity of each bank.

 

1. Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking

Best overall for newcomers without an SSN

Bank of America Advantage SafeBalance Banking is one of the strongest starting options for newly arrived professionals and international students.

The standard monthly maintenance fee is $4.95. It can be waived by maintaining a minimum daily balance of at least $500, having an account owner under 25 or qualifying through an eligible BofA Rewards tier. The account is designed to limit overspending and does not charge overdraft item fees, although paper check writing is unavailable.

What makes Bank of America especially relevant for expats is its published guidance for international applicants. The bank states that non-US citizens can open an account and that an SSN is not necessarily required. Applicants may instead need two forms of identification, a tax identification number and proof of both a foreign and US address.

 

Why it works for expats

Bank of America offers a clear documentation path for nonpermanent residents. Its broad financial-center presence also gives applicants an opportunity to explain foreign documents to a banker rather than relying entirely on an online verification system.

 

Main limitation

SafeBalance does not provide paper checks. That will not affect most day-to-day purchases, but some landlords, local government offices and smaller service providers still accept or request checks.

 

Best fit

Choose this account when you have a foreign passport, proof of a US address and limited US banking history but still need a mainstream bank with physical locations.

 

2. Wells Fargo Everyday Checking

Best for branch-based identity verification

Wells Fargo Everyday Checking provides standard checking features, debit-card access, mobile banking and a large physical branch presence.

The account charges a $15 monthly service fee. You can avoid it with at least $500 in qualifying electronic deposits, a $1,500 minimum daily balance, $5,000 in qualifying linked deposit or investment balances, or an eligible age or military waiver.

Wells Fargo asks applicants to provide two forms of identification. Its documentation guidance says that non-US citizens without a US-issued taxpayer identification number may provide government-issued identification showing nationality or residence. Requirements can vary by application channel, and nonpermanent residents may need to apply at a branch.

 

Why it works for expats

The published foreign-identification process makes Wells Fargo worth considering when a standard online form cannot verify your documents. The $500 electronic-deposit requirement may also be easy to meet once US payroll begins.

 

Main limitation

The $15 fee is relatively high when you do not yet receive a US salary or maintain the required balance.

 

Best fit

Consider Wells Fargo when you want in-person assistance and expect to begin receiving regular payroll deposits soon after arrival.

Before opening an account, add banking appointments, address documentation and payroll setup to your 30-day relocation calendar.

 

3. Chase Total Checking

Best for branch access and everyday US banking

Chase Total Checking is a practical everyday account for expats who value branch availability, ATMs, mobile banking and easy domestic payments.

Its monthly service fee is $15. The fee can be waived with at least $500 in qualifying electronic deposits, a $1,500 balance at the beginning of each day or $5,000 in qualifying combined balances.

Chase publishes guidance specifically for nonresidents and international students. It says nonresident applicants may need identification, proof of address and an opening deposit. Its international-student guidance also explains that some financial institutions may allow non-US residents to open an account without an SSN by using alternative identification.

 

Why it works for expats

Chase can be useful for people who travel frequently within the United States or expect to move between cities. Its account is also easy to retain after the initial relocation period if your employer deposits your salary electronically.

 

Main limitation

Applicants without standard US identification may need to visit a branch, and acceptance of alternative documents is subject to bank verification.

 

Best fit

Choose Chase when physical access and long-term everyday convenience matter more than earning interest on your checking balance.

 

4. HSBC Premier Checking

Best for international banking relationships

HSBC Premier is designed for internationally mobile professionals, executives and high-balance clients.

There is no monthly maintenance fee as long as you continue to meet at least one eligibility requirement. Current qualification routes include:

• At least $100,000 in total HSBC deposits and investments
• At least $5,000 in monthly direct deposits
• A qualifying HSBC US residential mortgage
• HSBC Private Bank status

Customers who do not maintain an eligibility condition may pay a $50 monthly maintenance fee.

An active HSBC Premier customer in one country can apply for Premier banking in another country where the service is available. Applicants may be asked for a passport, proof of permanent address, employment information and tax details.

 

Why it works for expats

The account can make the transition easier for someone who already has an HSBC Premier relationship abroad. That continuity may help with international support, global account visibility and moving funds between countries.

 

Main limitation

The balance and deposit requirements make HSBC Premier unsuitable for many students, early-career professionals and families operating on a moderate relocation budget.

 

Best fit

Consider HSBC Premier when you already qualify through another country, expect a high US salary or plan to maintain significant deposits and investments.

 

5. U.S. Bank Smartly Checking

Best for eligible corporate transferees

U.S. Bank Smartly Checking charges a $12 monthly maintenance fee, which is waived during the first two statement periods. Ongoing waiver options include maintaining a $1,500 average balance, receiving $1,500 in combined monthly direct deposits, holding an eligible U.S. Bank credit card or qualifying through certain customer groups.

The account becomes particularly interesting for expats who have access to the bank’s Global Transition Solutions program. U.S. Bank states that Global Transition Solutions customers do not pay the Bank Smartly Checking monthly maintenance fee.

 

Why it works for expats

The Global Transition Solutions benefit can lower account costs for eligible international transferees. It may be especially useful when banking support is included in an employer’s mobility or destination-services process.

 

Main limitation

The Global Transition Solutions program is not a general benefit available to every applicant. Confirm access with your employer, relocation provider or U.S. Bank representative.

 

Best fit

Choose U.S. Bank Smartly when your employer or relocation arrangement gives you access to Global Transition Solutions.

Employees preparing for a company-sponsored move should also review what may be covered in a 2026 relocation package, including temporary housing, destination services and financial setup support.

 

6. TD Complete Checking

Best for East Coast residents and Canadian newcomers

TD Complete Checking offers debit-card access, mobile banking, early direct deposit and no fees at TD ATMs.

The account has a $15 monthly maintenance fee. You can waive it by receiving at least $500 in direct deposits during a statement cycle, maintaining a $500 minimum daily balance or holding a $5,000 minimum daily combined balance across linked personal deposit accounts. The monthly fee is also waived for primary account holders aged 17 through 23.

TD’s standard application guidance asks for an SSN, one form of identification, a funding method and a phone for identity verification.

 

Why it works for expats

TD can be convenient for people settling in parts of the East Coast where its branches are concentrated. The bank also provides cross-border banking services, making it particularly familiar to customers arriving from Canada.

 

Main limitation

The published standard application process includes an SSN. New arrivals who have not received one should speak with a banker before assuming they are eligible.

 

Best fit

Consider TD Complete when you already have an SSN, expect at least $500 in monthly payroll deposits and will live near TD branches or ATMs.

 

7. Citi Access Checking

Best for a low direct-deposit waiver threshold

Citi Access Checking is a streamlined account for customers who do not need paper checks.

The account charges a $5 monthly service fee. Citi waives it in months when the account receives at least $250 in direct deposits or other qualifying transactions. Citi states that an additional age-based waiver for account owners aged 23 or younger takes effect on July 18, 2026.

There is no minimum opening deposit. Citi also says it does not charge overdraft, returned-item or overdraft-protection transfer fees. Access Checking is structured so certain transactions will not be authorized when they exceed the available balance.

 

Why it works for expats

The $250 deposit threshold is lower than the payroll requirement on many competing accounts. That can help part-time workers, students with employment authorization and newly arrived professionals receiving an initial partial paycheck.

 

Main limitation

Access Checking does not support check writing. Citi’s online application also asks for an address and SSN, so applicants without a US tax number may need to discuss alternatives directly with a branch.

 

Best fit

Choose Citi Access Checking when you want a low-cost account, do not use paper checks and expect at least $250 in monthly qualifying deposits.

 

8. PNC Simple Checking

Best for preventing overdraft fees

PNC Simple Checking is intended for customers who want straightforward everyday banking with fewer fees.

Its monthly service charge is $5. The charge can be avoided with any qualifying direct deposit, or when the account holder is under 25 or at least 62. The account has no overdraft fees and no minimum deposit requirement when opened online.

 

Why it works for expats

Relocation creates irregular expenses. Furniture, utility deposits, transportation and temporary accommodation can all hit during the same month. An account that does not charge overdraft fees provides an additional layer of protection while you adjust to a new payment system.

The direct-deposit waiver is also flexible because PNC does not advertise a large minimum amount on the product page for this particular condition.

 

Main limitation

PNC’s branch network is not equally strong in every US state. Check local branch and ATM coverage before opening the account.

 

Best fit

Consider PNC Simple Checking when fee predictability and overdraft protection matter more than premium account benefits.

 

9. Capital One 360 Checking

Best fee-free digital account after permanent residency

Capital One 360 Checking has no monthly fee, no minimum balance requirement and no overdraft fees. Capital One also advertises access to more than 70,000 fee-free ATMs.

However, its eligibility rules are important for expats. Capital One states that 360 Checking is available to US citizens or lawful permanent residents with a physical US address, a US mobile number and either a valid SSN or ITIN. A linked account must also be held at a US-chartered bank.

 

Why it works for expats

Once you meet the residency and identity requirements, 360 Checking offers an inexpensive account that can be managed almost entirely online. There is no monthly waiver condition to remember.

 

Main limitation

Temporary visa holders and newly arrived nonresidents may not meet the citizenship or lawful-permanent-resident requirement. The need for a linked US bank account can also make it impractical as your first account.

 

Best fit

Choose Capital One after you have lawful permanent residence, a US address, a US mobile number and another domestic account that can fund it.

For more app-first options, compare the best neobanks in the US before relying entirely on a digital provider.

 

10. Schwab Bank Investor Checking

Best for frequent international travel

Schwab Bank Investor Checking has no monthly service fee or overdraft fee. It also offers no foreign transaction fees and unlimited rebates for eligible ATM withdrawal fees worldwide.

The checking account is linked to a Schwab One brokerage account. Schwab’s US site is primarily designed for US residents, while non-US residents are subject to country-specific restrictions.

 

Why it works for expats

Many expats continue travelling between the United States and their home country. Worldwide ATM fee rebates and the absence of foreign transaction fees can make Schwab valuable after you become established in the US.

 

Main limitation

This is usually a better secondary account than a first-day arrival account. Applicants must be comfortable opening the linked brokerage relationship and meeting Schwab’s residency and identity requirements.

 

Best fit

Consider Schwab after settling in the US when international travel and overseas cash access are regular parts of your life.

 

Which Bank Account Is Best for Your Situation?

The right choice depends largely on your documentation and relocation stage.

 

You do not have an SSN yet

Start with Bank of America, Wells Fargo or Chase. Each publishes guidance for non-US citizens or nonresident applicants, although approval and documentation requirements remain case-specific.

Call the branch before visiting and explain exactly which documents you have. Ask the banker to confirm whether your passport, visa, proof of address and foreign or US tax number will be accepted.

 

You are moving through an employer

Ask whether your relocation benefits include banking assistance or access to U.S. Bank Global Transition Solutions. Your employer may also provide destination services that help with address documentation, payroll enrollment and local appointments.

Relo.AI’s guide to different types of relocation assistance can help you identify support that may already be included in your move.

 

You already receive a US salary

Compare the direct-deposit thresholds:

• Citi Access Checking: $250 in qualifying direct deposits
• PNC Simple Checking: Any qualifying direct deposit
• Chase Total Checking: $500 in qualifying direct deposits
• Wells Fargo Everyday Checking: $500 in qualifying direct deposits
• TD Complete Checking: $500 in qualifying direct deposits
• U.S. Bank Smartly Checking: $1,500 in qualifying direct deposits
• HSBC Premier: $5,000 in qualifying direct deposits

Only count deposits that meet the bank’s definition of a qualifying direct deposit. Transfers from another personal account, cash deposits and peer-to-peer payments may not qualify.

 

You want to minimize banking fees

Capital One 360 and Schwab Investor Checking have no monthly maintenance fee, but their eligibility rules make them more appropriate after you establish US residency and banking access.

PNC Simple and Citi Access can be inexpensive alternatives when you meet their modest direct-deposit conditions.

 

You travel internationally often

HSBC Premier may suit customers maintaining an international HSBC relationship. Schwab Investor Checking is particularly valuable for eligible US residents who regularly withdraw money overseas.

 

What to Do Before Opening a US Bank Account

 

Confirm your new address

Many banks need a physical residential address rather than a hotel, mail-forwarding address or post-office box. A signed lease, utility bill, employer letter or university document may help establish residency.

Use Relo.AI’s city relocation guides to compare housing, neighbourhoods, transportation and living costs before committing to a long-term address.

 

Ask what tax number is accepted

An SSN and an ITIN are different identifiers. An ITIN is issued by the Internal Revenue Service to certain people who need a US taxpayer identification number but are not eligible for an SSN.

Some banks accept an ITIN, while others may accept a foreign tax identification number or passport number under specific circumstances. Do not assume that one bank’s policy applies to another.

 

Check the full fee schedule

Look beyond the monthly maintenance fee. Review:

• Non-network ATM charges
• Incoming and outgoing wire fees
• International transfer costs
• Foreign transaction fees
• Paper-statement charges
• Cashier’s-check fees
• Account-closing fees
• Minimum opening deposits

Bank terms can change after an article is published, so read the current disclosure before submitting an application.

 

Keep your home-country account temporarily

Closing your existing account too early can create problems with final salary payments, tax refunds, subscriptions and bills in your previous country.

Keeping both accounts open for a short transition period also gives you time to compare international transfer methods and exchange rates.

 

Build an emergency relocation balance

Initial US expenses often arrive before the first full paycheck. Plan for housing deposits, local transportation, food, phone service, furniture and insurance.

Review the likely cost of relocation services and keep enough accessible cash to cover delays in payroll or account verification.

 

Checking Accounts and US Credit History

Opening a checking account gives you a place to receive money and pay bills, but it does not automatically create a traditional US credit history.

After your income and address are established, you can begin evaluating secured cards, newcomer credit programs or other suitable products. Avoid sending several applications at once before understanding eligibility and the effect on your credit profile.

Relo.AI’s guide to the best credit cards for moving in 2026 explains how established applicants can compare moving rewards, fees and spending requirements.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

1. Do I need an SSN to open a bank account in the US?

Not always. Some banks allow non-US citizens to apply with an ITIN, foreign passport, consular ID or other identification. Bank of America specifically states that an SSN is not required for certain international applicants. Requirements depend on the bank, account, immigration status and application channel.

 

2. Can I open a US bank account before arriving?

Sometimes. HSBC Premier customers and people with access to specialized international-transition programs may be able to start the process from abroad. Most standard checking accounts still require identity verification, tax information and a physical US address.

 

3. Is my money insured if I am not a US citizen?

Eligible deposits at an FDIC-insured bank can receive FDIC protection regardless of the depositor’s citizenship or residency. Standard coverage is generally at least $250,000 per depositor, per insured bank, for each ownership category.

 

4. Can a temporary visa holder open a US bank account?

Many temporary visa holders can open accounts, but each bank sets its own documentation and eligibility rules. A passport, visa, proof of address, secondary ID and tax identification number may be requested.

 

5. Is an ITIN the same as an SSN?

No. An SSN is generally issued to US citizens and certain eligible noncitizens, including many people authorized to work. An ITIN is a tax-processing number for qualifying people who need a US taxpayer identification number but cannot obtain an SSN.

 

6. Should I choose a national bank or a digital bank?

A national bank may be easier during the first weeks because you can bring foreign documents to a branch. A digital account may become more attractive later because of lower fees, but online providers often have stricter citizenship, residence and identity requirements.

 

7. What is the easiest US bank account for a foreigner to open?

Bank of America is one of the clearest options because it publishes a process for non-US citizens and states that an SSN is not always required. Wells Fargo and Chase may also work with alternative identification in certain circumstances. Approval is never guaranteed.

 

8. Can I use a hotel address to open an account?

Many banks require a residential physical address and may reject a hotel or mail-forwarding address. Ask the bank whether an employer letter, temporary-housing agreement or another document can satisfy its address-verification rules.

 

Make Your Move to the US Easier with the Right Banking Plan

Choosing from the 10 best bank accounts for expats moving to the US is an important step, but the right account depends on more than the monthly fee.

Identification requirements, Social Security number rules, proof of address, direct-deposit thresholds, branch availability, ATM access, overdraft policies, and international transfer costs can all affect your decision. Some accounts may work well before you receive an SSN, while others are better once your employment and residency documents are in place.

Your banking choice should also fit your wider relocation budget.

At Relo.AI, we help you understand the financial details connected to your move. Our relocation calculator and global relocation calculator help estimate moving, housing, transportation, and setup costs, while our corporate relocation services support you throughout the relocation process.

We consider your destination, salary, household expenses, banking access, housing budget, commute, tax exposure, and long-term plans so you can prepare for life in the US with fewer financial surprises.

Moving to the US for a new job?

Relo.AI’s Offer Analyzer helps you review your salary, relocation benefits, estimated living costs, and overall package before you make a decision.

Need help planning your move or comparing US destinations?

Book a FREE relocation session or call +1-617-333-8453.

 

Final Takeaway

The best bank accounts for expats moving to the US fall into two groups.

Bank of America, Wells Fargo and Chase are the most practical places to begin when you need branch support or do not yet have standard US identification. HSBC Premier and U.S. Bank’s Global Transition Solutions program can work well for eligible international professionals and corporate transferees.

Once you have established residency, an SSN or ITIN, a US address and regular income, accounts such as Capital One 360, Citi Access, PNC Simple and Schwab Investor Checking may provide lower fees or better travel features.

Begin by matching the bank to the documents you have today. Then compare monthly fees, payroll requirements, ATM access and international costs. A successful account opening depends less on finding the most advertised bank and more on choosing one whose verification process fits your relocation stage.

 

Editorial Methodology and Disclosure

This guide was researched using official bank product pages, fee disclosures and US government consumer resources available on July 13, 2026. Accounts were evaluated for newcomer documentation, maintenance costs, waiver accessibility, branch support, overdraft policies and international usefulness.

Bank fees, eligibility rules, service areas and account features can change. Account approval remains subject to each financial institution’s identity-verification and compliance procedures.

This article provides general educational information. It is not individualized financial, tax, immigration or legal advice.