Yes. Some US credit card issuers accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number (SSN), and a secured card is usually the most accessible way to start.
Quick answer
An ITIN is a nine-digit IRS tax number for people who file US taxes but are not eligible for an SSN. Not every issuer accepts it, but several major ones do. With no US credit history, a secured card gives you the best approval odds, because the refundable deposit lowers the issuer's risk. The card builds your credit only if the issuer reports your payments to the bureaus, so confirm that first.
What you need to know
- You can apply for a credit card with an ITIN. Some issuers accept it, though not all, and approval is never guaranteed.
- An ITIN is a nine-digit IRS number that begins with 9, for people with US tax obligations who cannot get an SSN.
- Secured cards are the most accessible option when you have no US credit history.
- A card builds credit only if the issuer reports your payments. Prefer one that reports to all three bureaus.
- Payment history is the biggest factor in your score, so pay on time every month.
- Credit bureaus track activity by ITIN, so your file builds the same way it would with an SSN.
Can you really get a card with an ITIN?
Yes, for many people. Some major banks and issuers recognize an ITIN as valid identification for a credit application, which matters for immigrants and non-residents who need to build credit but cannot get an SSN. Policies differ by issuer and approval depends on income, age, and ID requirements, so check each issuer's current rules before you apply.
Types of cards available to ITIN holders
| Card type | How it works | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Secured card | A refundable deposit typically sets your limit | Easiest approval with no history; confirm it reports to all three bureaus |
| Unsecured card | No deposit required | Usually needs a stronger profile or existing credit history |
| Store card | Tied to a specific retailer | More accessible, but usually a higher interest rate |
A secured card builds credit only if the issuer reports your payments. Some report to only one or two bureaus, so look for one that reports to all three (Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax).
How to get an ITIN
If you do not have an ITIN yet, apply through the IRS with Form W-7, along with proof of identity and foreign status. Processing typically takes 7 to 11 weeks.
Documents you will usually need
- Your ITIN confirmation letter from the IRS
- A government-issued photo ID, such as a passport or foreign driver's license
- Proof of US address, such as a utility bill or lease
- Proof of income, such as pay stubs, bank statements, or tax returns
How to apply and build credit
- Identify issuers that accept an ITIN, and start with a secured card if you have no history.
- Open a bank account first and keep it in good standing, which can strengthen your application.
- Apply online, by phone, or in person, where a representative can answer ITIN questions.
- After approval, pay on time every month and keep your balance below 30% of your limit, with lower being better.
A first FICO score usually appears after about 6 months of activity. A VantageScore can appear sooner, though most lenders rely on FICO. If you get an SSN later, ask all three bureaus to merge your ITIN credit history into your new file.
How MAJORITY can help
MAJORITY offers the MAJORITY Visa® Secured Credit Card, a secured card designed to help you build credit when used responsibly. Qualification is based on eligibility requirements and a security interest rather than prior credit history. You can learn more at majority.com.
Related resources
- Can I get a credit card without an SSN? for options without an SSN
- The migrant's guide to building credit in the US for the full path
- What if I have a bad credit score? if you already have a score to repair
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a credit card with an ITIN?
Yes. Several issuers accept an ITIN in place of an SSN. Approval is not guaranteed and depends on income and ID requirements, so check each issuer's rules.
Do all banks accept an ITIN?
No. Some accept an ITIN and some require an SSN. Confirm an issuer's current policy before you apply.
What is the easiest card to get with an ITIN?
A secured card, because the refundable deposit lowers the issuer's risk and raises your approval odds when you have no US credit history.
Does using an ITIN build a credit score?
Yes. Credit bureaus track activity by ITIN, so a card that reports your payments builds a credit file the same way it would with an SSN.
Can I move my credit history to an SSN later?
Yes. You can ask the three bureaus to merge your ITIN credit history into your new SSN file so you keep what you built.
Disclosures
The MAJORITY Visa® Secured Credit Card is issued by WebBank, a member of the FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc.
Qualification for the MAJORITY Visa® Secured Credit Card is based on meeting eligibility requirements, including income and expense requirements, having a Majority account in good standing, and establishment of a security interest. Criteria are subject to change.
Since your credit history is reported to major credit bureaus, it can help build/rebuild your credit if used responsibly. Other factors, such as late payments or delinquencies with your other accounts or loans, may adversely impact your credit. There is no guarantee regarding any impact on your credit score.
The MAJORITY app facilitates banking services through Axiom Bank, N.A. ("Axiom"), Member FDIC. The funds deposited in the account held at Axiom, Member FDIC, are FDIC-insured on a pass-through basis up to $250,000 per depositor in the event Axiom fails and subject to the satisfaction of certain conditions.
Additional onboarding questions may apply for members with no SSN.