Opening an American Express (Amex) credit card in the U.S. as an international student without a Social Security Number (SSN)

 

1. Understand the Requirements

While most U.S. credit card applications require an SSN, Amex may accept alternative forms of identification for international applicants, such as:

  • Passport and U.S. visa (F-1, J-1, etc.).

  • Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) (if you have one).

  • Proof of U.S. address (e.g., utility bills, rental agreements).

  • Proof of income (bank statements, scholarships, or part-time job earnings).

2. Apply Through the Amex Global Card Transfer Program

If you already have an Amex credit card in your home country, use the Global Card Transfer Program to leverage your existing relationship with Amex. This allows you to:

  • Transfer your credit history to the U.S.

  • Apply for a U.S. Amex card without an SSN (use your passport/ITIN instead).

  • Note: Not all countries participate in this program. Check Amex’s eligibility list here.

3. Apply Without an SSN

If you don’t have an existing Amex card:

  1. Visit the Amex U.S. website and select a student-friendly card (e.g., Amex EveryDay® Credit Card or Blue Cash Everyday®).

  2. Start the application.

  3. When prompted for an SSN:

    • Leave the field blank or enter “000-00-0000” (some applicants report this works).

    • Call Amex customer service after submitting the application to explain your situation. Provide your passport, visa, and proof of address.

4. Use an ITIN Instead of an SSN

If you have an ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number), you can use it in place of an SSN.

  • How to get an ITIN:

    • File IRS Form W-7 with your passport and visa to apply for an ITIN.

    • This process can take 6–8 weeks.

5. Consider Alternative Options

If Amex denies your application, try these alternatives:

  • Deserve EDU Mastercard: Designed for international students with no SSN/credit history.

  • Bank of America Travel Rewards Student Card: May accept ITIN or passport.

  • Secured Credit Cards: Options like Discover it® Secured (requires a security deposit) can help build credit.

6. Required Documents

Prepare these for your application or follow-up calls:

  • Valid passport and U.S. visa (F-1, J-1, etc.).

  • Proof of U.S. address (e.g., lease agreement, utility bill).

  • Proof of income (bank statements, scholarship letters, or on-campus job pay stubs).

  • I-20 form (for F-1 students).

Important Notes

  • Credit History Matters: Amex typically requires good credit, which international students may lack. Start with a secured card or student-specific options.

  • High Fees: Some Amex cards have annual fees. Opt for no-annual-fee cards like Amex Blue Cash Everyday®.

  • U.S. Bank Account: You’ll need one to pay bills. Open a student account with banks like Chase or Bank of America first.

Final Tips

  • Call Amex’s international customer service line: 1-800-528-4800 to discuss your case.

  • Build credit slowly with a secured card or student card first, then reapply for Amex later.

  • Always pay bills on time to avoid damaging your credit score.

If approved, use the card responsibly to build your U.S. credit history, which will help with future loans, rentals, or other financial needs! Let me know if you need help with specific banks or backup plans. 😊

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