By Journal Frame | June 2025
Moving to a new country is hard enough. Building credit without a Social Security Number? Even harder. But here’s the good news: you don’t need an SSN to start your financial journey in the U.S.
In 2025, a growing number of banks and fintech companies have made it easier for immigrants, international students, and newcomers to access credit—without the paperwork nightmare.
This guide will walk you through the best credit cards you can get in the U.S. with no SSN, how to apply, and what to watch out for.
Why Credit Matters—Even If You’re New to the U.S.
A good credit score opens doors—literally. It helps you:
- Rent a home without huge deposits
- Get lower car insurance rates
- Qualify for a phone plan
- Eventually buy a car or home in the U.S.
But without an SSN, traditional banks often shut the door. That’s where alternative options come in.
1. Deserve EDU Mastercard – Great for Students
Perfect for: International students with no credit history or SSN
Why it stands out:
- No SSN required during application
- $0 annual fee
- 1% cashback on all purchases
- Free Amazon Prime Student (6 months)
Deserve looks at your passport, student visa, and U.S. school enrollment instead of credit history. It’s a top choice for students trying to build U.S. credit from scratch.
2. Tomo Credit Card – No Credit Score Needed
Perfect for: New immigrants, freelancers, or those with no credit file
Key benefits:
- No SSN or credit score required
- Reports to all 3 credit bureaus
- $0 annual fee
- Weekly auto-pay (to avoid debt)
Tomo uses a cash-flow underwriting model—looking at your bank activity instead of a credit score. It’s fast, easy, and great for responsible spenders.
3. Amex Global Card Transfer Program – For Those with Credit Abroad
Perfect for: Immigrants from countries like India, UK, Mexico, or Canada
Why it helps:
- Allows you to transfer your foreign credit history
- Qualify for a U.S.-based Amex card
- Keep building credit seamlessly
If you had an American Express card in your home country, this program helps you start strong in the U.S. It’s ideal for professionals moving permanently or on work visas.
4. Capital One Platinum Secured – Traditional But Flexible
Perfect for: Immigrants who have an ITIN but no SSN
Features:
- Accepts ITINs instead of SSNs
- Low refundable security deposit
- Reports to all credit bureaus
- Auto-review for credit limit increases
It’s a solid path if you want a long-term credit card from a traditional bank and are okay with a secured credit line.
5. Petal 1 “No Annual Fee” Visa Card – Income-Based Approval
Perfect for: People with income but no U.S. credit
Why people love it:
- No SSN required (ITIN accepted)
- No credit history needed
- Up to 10% cashback with select merchants
- $0 fees—no annual, late, or overdraft fees
Petal uses a tech-driven underwriting model that looks at your banking habits instead of a score. It’s one of the most inclusive cards out there.
How to Apply for a Credit Card Without an SSN
While each issuer is different, here’s what most will ask for:
- ITIN (Individual Taxpayer ID) or Passport Number
- U.S. mailing address
- U.S. bank account
- Visa or immigration documents (if applicable)
- Proof of income or enrollment (for students)
Some companies, like Deserve and Tomo, don’t require any credit file at all.
Tips to Build Credit from Day One
Once you get approved, these habits can boost your credit fast:
- Pay your bill on time every month
- Keep credit utilization low (ideally under 30%)
- Don’t apply for too many cards at once
- Monitor your score using apps like Credit Karma or Credit Sesame
Final Thought: You Don’t Need an SSN to Build a New Life
If you’ve moved to the U.S. with big dreams, don’t let credit confusion hold you back. Whether you’re a student, a skilled worker, or just starting over—you have options.
These cards are more than plastic—they’re the start of something powerful: your financial freedom in a new land.
