Can You Get a Credit Card Without an SSN?
4 Min Read | Last updated: July 23, 2026
This article contains general information and is not intended to provide information that is specific to American Express products and services. Similar products and services offered by different companies will have different features and you should always read about product details before acquiring any financial product.
Learn how to get a credit card without an SSN, explore alternative options, and find ways to start building credit in the U.S.
At-A-Glance
- It's often possible to open a credit card without a Social Security number (SSN) if you qualify for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
- After obtaining an ITIN, international students, recent U.S. arrivals, and immigrants typically just need to meet their selected card issuer's other requirements.
- If an ITIN is out of reach, other valid forms of identification may help you build credit through alternatives, like authorized user status.
In the U.S., building credit is a key step toward a solid financial foundation. But getting a credit card without a Social Security number (SSN) can be challenging. If you never received an SSN, are currently studying in the U.S. as an international student, or are a recent immigrant, you might worry that building credit isn't even an option. But there are still ways to get a credit card without an SSN—it may just take a few extra steps.
Can You Get a Credit Card Without a Social Security Number in the U.S.?
Obtaining an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) can often allow you to open a credit card in the United States. An ITIN is an Internal Revenue Service (IRS)-issued nine-digit number for non-U.S. citizens who need to file taxes.1 Conveniently, many credit card issuers consider ITINs an acceptable alternative to SSNs.
If you qualify for an ITIN, there are a few options for applying:
- Applying by mail
Complete the IRS Form W-7, then mail it with identity documentation and a tax return.2 - Visiting a Taxpayer Assistance Center
Schedule an appointment and bring your identification for in-person verification. - Working with a Certifying Acceptance Agent
Connect with an authorized person or group that can verify your identity documents to avoid mailing originals.
Note that even if you do have an ITIN, you still need to meet your card issuer's specific requirements.
What Might Card Issuers Require in Addition to an ITIN?
Lenders’ requirements aren’t always uniform, but there are a few standard pieces of information you usually have to supply:
- Basic Personal Details
Think proof of legal name, address, and date of birth. - Proof of Income
This shows that you can manage monthly payments. It could be income from a job or another IRS-verifiable source. - Credit History and Scores
Many cards look for a certain minimum credit score, among other factors, but specialty or secured cards could be an option if you haven’t built a history in the U.S.
Exploring Credit-Building Routes as an Immigrant or International Student
If you’re an international student or immigrant who doesn’t have a Social Security number or an ITIN, there might still be strategies for getting a credit card.
- On-Campus Jobs
Some government-approved on- or off-campus jobs may help you qualify for an SSN or ITIN. If you’re able to get one of those numbers through work, you might then be eligible for certain credit cards. - Previous Banking History
Some issuers offer cards based on data such as banking habits, proof of income, or past bill payments, rather than relying solely on a U.S. credit score. - Home-Country Credit History
If you’ve already built credit in your home country, certain services may let you share your international credit history with U.S. lenders.
Did you know?
Nova Credit® is a free service that could help you transfer your international credit profile to a U.S. equivalent.3 Since American Express® partners with Nova Credit, associated Cards might let immigrants of certain countries apply with a foreign credit record, eliminating the need to build credit from scratch.4
Ways to Build Credit Without an SSN or ITIN
If you can’t get an SSN or ITIN right now, building credit may still be possible in a few ways:
- Applying for a Secured Credit Card
Typically designed for people with limited or undeveloped credit histories, secured cards require a deposit as collateral, and there’s a small chance some companies might accept you without a tax number. - Becoming an Authorized User
If a trusted friend, employer, or family member with an ITIN or SSN adds you to their credit card account, you may benefit from their on-time payments and start building your credit history as an authorized user. - Trying Alternative Cards
Certain card issuers may be willing to look beyond credit scores and focus instead on U.S. residency, visa status, or your passport. This could let you take that first step toward U.S. credit.
Frequently Asked Questions
A ghost credit card is a virtual account number for businesses that enables them to monitor spending and make secure payments. Even though it may pop up as you're researching different credit-building avenues, it's not really an option for individuals wanting to build personal credit.
That depends on several factors, like your ITIN/SSN status, income, and previous credit history. But generally, the easiest cards to qualify for are those that are the least competitive reward-wise, offer only basic features, and have less demanding credit history requirements.
The Takeaway
Living in the U.S. without an SSN doesn’t mean you’re out of credit options. Alternatives like ITINs and tools to share international credit history can help, but you might need some extra documents or flexibility depending on your situation. Looking into becoming an authorized user, applying for a secured card, or applying with a card issuer that considers more than just U.S. credit can help you start building your financial future.
Megan Doyle is a business technology writer and researcher whose work focuses on financial services and cross-cultural diversity and inclusion.
All Credit Intel content is written by freelance authors and commissioned and paid for by American Express.
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The material made available for you on this website, Credit Intel, is for informational purposes only and intended for U.S. residents and is not intended to provide legal, tax or financial advice. If you have questions, please consult your own professional legal, tax and financial advisors.
