Does Chase Accept ITIN?

Chase is the best long-term bank for ITIN holders. The combination of ITIN-accepted checking accounts, credit card products (Freedom Unlimited, Sapphire Preferred), and business banking under one roof means you won't need to move banks as your financial life grows.

💡 Call ahead first

Before visiting, call the branch and say: "I'd like to open a checking account using my ITIN — can you confirm someone is available to help me with that today?" Not every teller handles ITIN applications. This ensures the right person is ready and saves you the trip if they're not.

Accounts Available With ITIN

Documents to Bring

What to bring to Chase
  • Your ITIN — memorized, written down, or your IRS CP565 letter
  • Government-issued photo ID — a valid foreign passport is required; Chase does not consistently accept consular IDs as a primary ID, so bring your passport
  • Proof of U.S. address — utility bill, lease, or official mail showing your name and current U.S. address, dated within the last 60–90 days

⚠️ Originals only

Bring original documents — photocopies are not accepted. If your address proof is in another language, bring a certified translation. Documents should show your current address and be dated within the last 60–90 days.

Step-by-Step Process

  1. Step 1: Call or visit a Chase branch and confirm a banker who handles ITIN accounts is available.
  2. Step 2: Bring your foreign passport, ITIN (or CP565 letter), and proof of U.S. address.
  3. Step 3: Ask to open the Chase Secure Banking account if this is your first — it has no overdraft fees.
  4. Step 4: The banker enters your ITIN where an SSN would normally go.
  5. Step 5: You'll get a temporary debit card in-branch; permanent card arrives by mail.
  6. Step 6: Set up the Chase Mobile app before leaving — it's one of the best banking apps available.
  7. Step 7: After 12+ months of account history, you can apply for the Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card using your ITIN.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Chase accept ITIN for a bank account? +
Yes. Chase accepts an ITIN in place of an SSN for personal checking and savings accounts. You must apply in person at a branch with a valid foreign passport, your ITIN or CP565 letter, and proof of a U.S. address. Online applications require an SSN.
Can I open a Chase account without a Social Security Number? +
Yes. Chase allows ITIN holders to open checking and savings accounts in person at a branch. You need a valid foreign passport (Chase typically requires a passport rather than a consular ID as the primary document), your ITIN, and proof of U.S. address.
Can I get a Chase credit card with an ITIN? +
Yes. Chase accepts ITIN for several credit cards including the Freedom Unlimited and, with stronger credit, the Sapphire Preferred. You typically need at least 12 months of U.S. credit history and a score of 670+ for the Freedom Unlimited. Having a Chase checking account first strengthens your application.
Which Chase account should I open first with an ITIN? +
Chase Secure Banking is the best starting account — it has a flat $4.95/month fee with no way to overdraft, which removes the risk of unexpected fees while you're getting comfortable with U.S. banking. Once you have a steady income or direct deposit, you can upgrade to Chase Total Checking and waive the monthly fee.
Does Chase accept matrícula consular? +
Chase generally requires a foreign passport as the primary identity document for ITIN account openings — not all branches consistently accept consular IDs alone. Bring your passport to be safe. If your passport has expired, call the branch ahead of time to confirm what alternatives they accept.

Compare Other Banks

All four major banks accept ITIN. Compare options:

Bank of America Chase Wells Fargo Citibank

For a full side-by-side comparison, see the best banks for ITIN holders guide →

💡 Next step

After establishing your Chase account, the natural next step is applying for the Chase Freedom Unlimited once you've built 12+ months of credit history. Best credit cards for ITIN holders →