Can International Students Get a Credit Card?

International students in the United States often seek credit cards to establish financial independence and build a U.S. credit history. While a lack of U.S. credit history can present challenges, obtaining a credit card is generally possible. A U.S. credit card offers convenient transactions and helps build a credit history, which is important for future financial endeavors like renting an apartment or financing a vehicle.

Essential Eligibility and Documentation

Obtaining a credit card in the United States requires a Social Security Number (SSN) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). An SSN is typically issued to individuals authorized to work in the U.S., including international students on F-1, M-1, or J-1 visas with work authorization. Students ineligible for an SSN, such as those without employment authorization, may apply for an ITIN from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) by submitting Form W-7. Both numbers serve as unique identifiers for financial and tax purposes, and are often required for credit card applications.

Other documents are also required for a credit card application. These include:
A valid passport and student visa (F-1 or J-1 visa).
Proof of enrollment, such as an I-20 or DS-2019 form.
Proof of a U.S. address, such as a university residence hall address.
Details of a U.S. bank account.

While not always mandatory, proof of income, such as scholarships, stipends, or on-campus employment, can strengthen an application by demonstrating repayment capability.

Credit Card Options for International Students

Several credit card options are available to international students, especially those with limited or no U.S. credit history. A secured credit card is a common starting point, requiring a security deposit that typically matches the credit limit. This deposit minimizes risk for the issuer, making approval more likely, and responsible use helps establish a credit history. The deposit is refundable when the account is closed or after demonstrating a history of responsible payments.

Student credit cards are another option, designed for college students with more lenient approval criteria than traditional cards. Some student cards may require an SSN, while others accept an ITIN or a passport. These cards may have lower income requirements and offer student-specific benefits. Discover and Capital One are popular issuers known to offer student-friendly cards.

Becoming an authorized user on an existing U.S. credit account can help build credit history. This involves being added to another person’s (such as a trusted family member or friend) credit card account, allowing the authorized user to make purchases. The primary cardholder’s payment activity is reported to credit bureaus, which can positively influence the authorized user’s credit profile if the account is managed responsibly. A co-signed credit card, where a U.S. citizen or permanent resident with good credit applies with the student, makes the co-signer equally responsible for the debt. This option is not offered by all banks.

Applying for a Credit Card

Once documentation is gathered and a credit card type identified, the application process begins. Researching credit card issuers known to be friendly toward international students is a practical approach. Some financial institutions, including major banks, offer programs or cards tailored for international students. This can increase the likelihood of approval, particularly for those without an established U.S. credit history.

Applications can be submitted online. However, for international students, an in-person application at a local bank branch is often beneficial. Applying in person allows for direct interaction with bank representatives who can clarify requirements, assist with documentation, and offer personalized guidance. This is helpful when navigating specific identification requirements or explaining unique financial circumstances. Accurately completing the application form with all gathered information, including personal details, contact information, student status, and financial data, is essential. After submission, approval can range from an immediate decision to a waiting period of several business days or weeks, during which additional information might be requested.

Using Your Credit Card to Build Credit

After acquiring a credit card, responsible management is essential for establishing and improving a U.S. credit history. A credit score, such as a FICO score, is a numerical representation of financial reliability, ranging from 300 to 850. Higher scores indicate better creditworthiness and are used by lenders, landlords, and some employers to assess financial risk. Payment history is the most important factor influencing a credit score, accounting for about 35% of the FICO score. Making all credit card payments on or before the due date is important, and setting up payment reminders or automatic payments helps avoid late fees and negative reporting.

Keeping credit utilization low is another significant factor, typically accounting for about 30% of the FICO score. Credit utilization refers to the amount of credit used compared to the total available credit. It is recommended to keep this ratio below 30% of the credit limit to demonstrate responsible credit management. For example, if a credit card has a $1,000 limit, maintaining a balance below $300 is advisable. Paying off the full statement balance each month helps maintain a low utilization ratio and avoids interest charges, which can be substantial, with average Annual Percentage Rates (APRs) for student cards often ranging from 17.49% to 26.49%.

Monitoring credit reports is important to ensure accuracy and identify any potential errors or fraudulent activity. While credit reports may not initially show a score for new cardholders, consistent responsible usage over several months, typically six months or more, will begin to build a credit history that generates a score. Building a positive credit history takes time and consistent effort, providing a foundation for future financial goals in the U.S.