I want to open a checking account in the US. I am on F2 visa, so I dont have SSN. What are my options?

Question

I have an ITIN issued by IRS. And a valid passport and visa. I also have an American Express credit card in my name which I got by being added to my wife's account. Will I able to open the account? Most importantly, is it legal for an F2 visa holder to have a checking account?

Answer 1

Yes, it's legal.

The fact that you already have the ITIN makes the process pretty easy.  The bank can accept the ITIN instead of the SSN.

A for the bank's paperwork.  If you are a non-resident (less than 5 years on the F2 visa), you fill out form W-8BEN.  If you are a resident, you fill out form W-9.  Make a note of when you filed the form--they expire every 3 years.  

Answer 2

As long as its a legal visa there should not be a problem  If your wife is going on the account with you then that is even better. My husband is here on an L1B visa and it was much easier than I expected to be able to open a joint checking account.  Call around at different banks and ask.  If the person you are talking to doesn't know, ask to make an appointment to speak with the bank manager.  Don't take no for an answer until the bank manager himself tells you no.

Also check with Credit Unions.  Their rules are different from those of traditional banks and sometimes much more lax when it comes to foreigners.  Best of luck!