Best US Banks for Expats in 2025 – Complete Guide

Moving to America as an expat is exciting as well as daunting. From healthcare and housing to adapting to the culture, there is just so much that needs to be sorted out. Of all the tasks, as an expat in the USA, one of the most important is a bank account for expats in the USA. The lack of a US bank account renders you at the mercy of inconvenience in terms of handling your cash, particularly when you receive your salary, pay your rent, or even online shopping.

The best part is that the American banking landscape is filled with options if you're a non-resident. Whether you're used to tried-and-true core banks or new-age digital-first banks and foreign financial giants, expats in the year 2025 have more choices than they've ever had. The point remains, however, of how exactly you choose the best US bank for expats. The next guide will aid you in uncovering why you should sign up, what you will be required, what the top banks are, and how software such as Unlimit Mobile can facilitate the experience.

Why Non-Residents Must Open a Bank Account in the USA

One of the initial frustrations that expats encounter is dealing with daily financial transactions. While you would be tempted to use your home-country account or foreign credit card, you soon discover this is bothersome.

In the first place, American employers like paying wages directly into local accounts. If your employer is willing to pay you through an international money transfer, the transaction is slower, usually taking some days, and you will lose much of it through conversion and transfer charges. Having an American account is the guarantee that you will get your cash fast and in its entirety.

Secondly, using a foreign bank card can get quite pricey. The majority of banks are imposing foreign transaction fees on each purchase, and the exchange rate usually benefits the bank more than the cardholder. Step by step, the small fees accumulate the amounts of hundreds of dollars. A bank account for expat will enable you to make payments with no additional fees.

Lastly, an account with a U.S. bank makes life more manageable and safer. It is dangerous to travel with large cash amounts, and foreign cards don't always function in local systems. An account of your own will guarantee that you can use ATMs, mobile paying applications, and debit or credit cards conveniently.

Requirements to Open a Bank Account in the USA for Non -Residents

You can open up a U.S. bank account as a non-resident but you will be required some documentation. Though requirements differ from bank to bank, the most common requirements are

• Passport – this is your main form of identification. Some banks will also require you produce a second form of id, like a driver's license or national id card from your home nation.
• Visa or Immigration Documents – Whether you are in the U.S. on the work visa, study visa, or residency card, banks will always require evidence of your legal status.
• Proof of Address – Banks will typically require a rental agreement, utility bill, or letter from your university or employer. Digital banks can be more open-minded, at times using seasonal addresses or even booked hotels.
• Social Security Number (SSN) or ITIN – The standard is the SSN, but some banks will take an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) from foreigners. Some banks that are expat friendly will even allow you to open accounts in the absence of either.
• First Deposit – Some banks require you to make some initial small deposit in order to open your account, typically ranging from $25 to $100. Digital banks, however, can provide you with the choice of opening the account with zero deposits.

Having the papers in order in front of you will save you time and reduce the chance of holds.

Best Bank for Expats in USA

The best bank for expats will be determined by your lifestyle, your financial requirements, as well as your long-term aspirations. Overall, you have a choice of three types:

Digital Banks (Neobanks) - These would be banks such as Revolut, Varo, and Chime. They have fast account openings, frequently no SSN required. They are app-based, convenient, and typically pay low fees. They suit the online-obsessed young expat or digital nomad.

Local American Banks - These big banks, such as Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo, have branches across the nation. They offer face-to-face contact, ATMs, and the potential of credit building in America. They are best US bank for expats who would like online as well as face-to-face support.

International Banks - Global banks like HSBC and Citibank provide cross-border services, including the convenience of sending money across borders and keeping accounts in more than one nation. They are the best banks for expats with foreign financial liabilities.

Best International Banks for Expats in USA

Foreign banks are particularly vital to expats, particularly individuals who have financial links across nations. They provide cross-border banking services, multicurrency’s, as well as customized expat packages that meet the lifestyles of international professionals.

Citibank

With a presence in over 160 countries, Citibank is built for global lifestyles. Its Citi gold and International Personal Banking accounts offer lower international transfer fees, access to worldwide ATMs, and personalized support for international clients. Citibank is particularly attractive for expats who regularly move between continents.

Charles Schwab

Although better recognized as an investment bank, Charles Schwab offers one of the most expat-beneficial accounts available in the U.S. in the form of unlimited global ATM fee reimbursements, no fees on foreign transaction charges, as well as an investor-centric interface. It is the perfect option available for international professionals who travel often and desire hassle-free access to money.

Barclays 

Barclays, though U.K.-based, operates expat and international accounts that can be linked to U.S. residency. Their International Banking platform supports global accounts in multiple currencies, wealth management services, and exclusive packages for international clients.

Santander

Santander offers international transfer options and a soon-to-launch digital U.S. service (Open bank). For expats from Europe or Latin America, Santander provides familiar services with strong international remittance capabilities.

Standard Chartered

Operating in over 60 markets, Standard Chartered specializes in supporting expats, particularly those from Asia and the Middle East relocating to the U.S. Their global banking services include multi-currency accounts, investment access, and global relationship managers.

Zenus Bank

A newer player, Zenus Bank is U.S.-licensed but caters to international clients in over 90 countries. It allows non-residents to open U.S. accounts remotely without needing a local address, making it a convenient digital-first solution for globally mobile expats.

Unlimit Mobile – Best SIM Card for USA

In order to manage a US bank account for expats, you may well be required to have an in-country phone number. Banks will typically utilize SMS verification when you're entering the site, making payments, and reporting suspicious activity. Unlimit Mobile is the answer. 

Benefits of Unlimit Mobile

Unlimit Mobile offers prepaid SIM cards with:

• Strong nationwide coverage.

• Affordable plans without long contracts.

• Easy activation upon arrival in the U.S.

• Online account management for top-ups and data tracking.

Benefits of Unlimit Mobile for Expats in USA

For expats, Unlimit Mobile does more than provide connectivity. It ensures you can receive critical banking codes instantly, register for online services smoothly, and avoid international roaming charges when dealing with your bank. A U.S. number also simplifies daily tasks like job applications, housing, and utilities.

Unlimit Mobile – Prepaid SIM Card USA Data Plans

Unlimit offers flexible prepaid USA SIM data plans—daily, weekly, or monthly—so expats can choose according to their needs. Whether you are attending video calls, streaming, or managing your bank app, these data plans keep you connected reliably and affordably.

7 Best US Banks for Expats

To make things easier, here’s a closer look at the seven best US banks for expats in 2025.

Bank of America – Best Private Bank in USA

Bank of America is a top choice for expats, thanks to its extensive branch and ATM network. The Advantage Safe Balance account is designed for simplicity, requiring only basic identification to open. For newcomers, the ability to open an account without a Social Security Number is a major advantage. It also offers credit cards that help build a U.S. credit history, making it one of the best private banks in USA for expats.

Chase Bank

Chase is one of the largest U.S. banks, combining a robust digital app with a wide branch network. The Chase Total Checking® account is popular among expats and offers easy direct deposits. With more than 16,000 ATMs nationwide, accessing your funds is never an issue. For expats who want a mix of digital convenience and in-person support, Chase is a solid option.

Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo is well-suited for expats who require bilingual services. The personnel are well-qualified in serving newcomers, and the services extend to international remittance as well. Therefore, sending money back home is possible while reaping the advantages of having a U.S. account. The mobile application is simple and user-optimized, so Wells Fargo is a trusted option when it comes to daily banking.

HSBC USA – Safest Bank in USA

HSBC has long been recognized as one of the safest banks in USA, thanks to its strict compliance and global reputation. Its multi-currency accounts and premium expat services make it especially appealing to high-income individuals or those with financial ties in different parts of the world.

Chime

Among the best choices for younger expats and digital-first users is Chime. Its modern, agile take on banking comes with no monthly fees and no overdraft fees. Easy to get up and running with, often no SSN required, this is the perfect choice for people who are still in transition. The instant alerts and early direct deposit capabilities are particularly beneficial in terms of being able to keep track of costs while on the move.

Revolut

Revolut is more than just a bank, but rather a financial lifestyle app. You can keep and switch numerous currencies, spend abroad at real exchange rates, and even receive services like high-end vaults and cryptocurrency trading. If you're an expat who actually lives the international lifestyle, then Revolut's flexibility is matched by nothing else.

Which Is the Best US Bank for Expats?

Here is a comparison of top US Bank options in 2025

FAQ’s

What is the best bank for expats in the US?
It depends on your needs. Bank of America is great for easy setup, HSBC and Citibank for international services, and Charles Schwab for frequent travellers.

Can a foreigner get a bank account in the USA?
Yes. Many banks allow non-residents to open accounts with just a passport and visa. Some digital banks even permit remote account openings without a U.S. address.

Which neobanks are recommended for expats in the USA?
Capital One, Zenus Bank, and Santander’s upcoming Open bank are the most recommended digital-first options for expats.

Is a Social Security Number (SSN) required to open a bank account?
Not always. While many banks prefer an SSN or ITIN, some—like Bank of America and Zenus—offer accounts without them.

Conclusion

Having a U.S. bank account for expats is one of the critical tasks in settling in. The standard banks such as Wells Fargo, Chase, and Bank of America offer good local services, while HSBC, Citibank, and Charles Schwab offer expat-centric worldwide capabilities. If online-centric banks are your cup of tea, then you should try out Capital One and Zenus.

In order to keep the experience smooth, linking your account with Unlimit Mobile's prepaid SIM card will always keep you with protected access to banking applications, OTPs, and core communications.

Finally, the best US bank for expats in the year 2025 is the one that will reconcile your local requirements with your global lifestyle—to save you money, establish credit, and give you the confidence that you're on the move with America