Many H1B visa holders relocating to the U.S. want to get their affairs in order before they arrive—especially when it comes to essential tasks like setting up bank accounts. Having a U.S. bank account ready can simplify receiving salaries, paying rent, and managing expenses. But is it feasible to open one before you actually arrive in the country?
For most major banks in the U.S., the answer is no. Banks generally require a Social Security Number (SSN) or an individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), along with proof of U.S. residency, such as utility bill or lease agreement. Since these documents are typically only available after you arrive, opening an account from abroad can be challenging.
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However, some international banks and fintech companies provide options for newcomers. Institutions like HSBC, Citibank, and Bank of America may allow non-residents to initiate the account opening process from their home country. Additionally, online banks like Wise and Revoult offer multi-currency accounts that can be used temporarily for transactions, though these may not be suitable for direct salary deposits or rent payments.
One alternative is to open an account with a bank that has branches in both U.S. and your home country. If your current bank operates in the U.S., they might assist you in setting up an account to see if they have partnerships with banks that help H-1B visa holders establish accounts.
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While having a U.S. bank account before your arrival would be ideal, most individuals will need to wait until they land. Bringing an international debit or forex card can help manage expenses in the meantime. For salary deposits and rent payments, the best strategy is to plan for a swift account setup as soon as you reach the U.S.
