Quick Links — What Are You Looking For?
Step 1
How to Get an ITIN
Read guide →
Step 2
Open a Bank Account
Read guide →
Step 3
Build U.S. Credit
Read guide →
Also useful
Driver's License by State
Read guide →
Identification — What to Bring
A valid Venezuelan passport is the primary ID accepted at U.S. banks alongside your ITIN. If your Venezuelan passport is expired, some branches accept an expired passport alongside a second form of ID — call ahead to confirm. The Venezuelan consulate in the U.S. has limited services due to diplomatic relations — check current availability.
Standard documents required at any U.S. bank for an ITIN account opening:
- Your ITIN or IRS CP565 letter
- Valid government-issued photo ID (passport is most widely accepted)
- Proof of U.S. address — utility bill, lease, or bank statement dated within 90 days
Banking With an ITIN
These four major banks accept ITIN for personal checking and savings accounts. You must apply in person — online applications are designed for SSN holders.
- Bank of America — most beginner-friendly; staff at most branches familiar with ITIN process
- Chase — best long-term; also accepts ITIN for business accounts and credit cards
- Wells Fargo — largest branch network in the U.S.
- Citibank — requires two forms of ID; fewer branches in some areas
Building Credit
A bank account does not build your credit score on its own. After opening your account, the next step is a credit card that reports to the three major bureaus.
- Capital One Secured Mastercard — $49–$200 deposit; ITIN accepted online; reviews for upgrade after 6 months
- Discover it Secured — $200 minimum deposit; earns cash back; automatic upgrade review at month 7
Pay the full balance every month. After 12–18 months of on-time payments, your credit score will qualify you for unsecured cards like Chase Freedom Unlimited or Amex Blue Cash Everyday.
Driver's License
Large Venezuelan communities are in Florida (Miami), Texas, and New York. Florida and Texas currently do not issue driver's licenses to undocumented immigrants. New York does — see the state-by-state guide.
See the full list: all states that accept ITIN for a driver's license →
Taxes
Venezuelan immigrants earning income in the U.S. must file a U.S. tax return using their ITIN. Those on humanitarian parole with work authorization are eligible for an SSN and should use that instead. Venezuela does not have a current tax treaty with the United States.
For step-by-step filing guidance, see: ITIN guide — how to apply and how to file →
Community Organizations
These organizations offer free or low-cost immigration legal help, community support, and referrals:
- WOLA (Washington Office on Latin America) — Policy research and advocacy for Venezuelan and Latin American immigrants.
- Americans for Immigrant Justice — Florida-based immigration legal services — important given the large Venezuelan population in Miami.
- Venezuelan American Caucus — Advocacy and community resource network for Venezuelan Americans.