One of the first challenges new immigrants face in the U.S. is figuring out how to open a bank account. Without a local bank account, simple things like getting paid, paying rent, or sending money back home, can become complicated fast.

The good news is opening a U.S. bank account is doable, even if you're new and still getting settled. You just need to know what to expect, what documents to bring, and where to go.

Here’s a straight-to-the-point guide to help you get started.

1. Choose the Type of Bank That Fits You

There are three main types:

• Traditional banks like Chase, Bank of America, or Wells Fargo offer in-person service and wide ATM access.
  
  
• Online banks like Chime or SoFi offer quick setup, no physical branches, and often fewer fees, but may require a Social Security Number.
  
  
• Credit unions often have more flexible documentation requirements, especially in communities with large immigrant populations.
  
  

2. Documents You’ll Likely Need

Requirements vary slightly by bank, but most will ask for:

• A valid passport
  
  
• A secondary form of ID (visa, foreign national ID, or driver’s license)
  
  
• Proof of a U.S. address (can be a lease, utility bill, or a letter from a host)
  
  
• A Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

Some banks, especially in immigrant-heavy neighborhoods, may allow you to open an account while your ITIN is pending or using only foreign documents. Calling ahead or visiting a branch to speak with a manager can help clarify what’s possible.

3. Open the Account—Online or In Person

If you're going with a traditional or credit union bank, walk into a branch with your documents. If the bank has an online setup, the process usually takes 5–10 minutes, but you’ll still need to upload ID and proof of address.

Most banks will ask for an initial deposit between $25 and $100 to activate the account.

4. Start Using Your Account

Once opened, you’ll receive:

• A debit card in the mail within a few business days
  
  
• Access to online and mobile banking
  
  
• The ability to set up direct deposits for wages or payments
  
  

This bank account becomes the foundation for everything: renting an apartment, paying bills, buying groceries, etc,.

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Bonus: Use Afriex to Send Money Home

Once your U.S. bank account is ready, you can connect it to Afriex and start sending money home immediately.

Afriex is designed for immigrants who want to support family or invest back home without the high fees, long delays, or poor exchange rates that traditional remittance services often involve.

With Afriex, you can:

• Send money to 50+ countries in minutes
  
  
• Avoid high transfer fees as most transactions are free
  
  
• Get better exchange rates so more of your money reaches your family
  
  
• Fund real needs like school fees, medical bills, or housing projects directly from your U.S. account

Final Tip

Bank requirements can vary by institution and location. It’s smart to visit or call a branch before you go in to confirm what documents are accepted. And once you’re set up, Afriex gives you a simple, reliable way to stay connected and support your people—no matter how far away you are.

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