A Complete Step-by-Step Guide for Students in Los Angeles (2026)
Learning how to open a US Bank Account is one of the first and most important steps for international students. A U.S. bank account allows you to pay rent, school tuition, transportation, phone bills, and everyday expenses, while avoiding high international card fees.
Before opening a bank account, international students must first ensure they have entered the United States with the correct documentation and maintain a valid student status. Due to recent immigration policy changes, it is essential to comply with all visa requirements and carry proper documentation upon arrival in the country.
This guide explains how international students can open a bank account in the U.S., what documents are required, how fees work, whether an SSN is required, how to receive money from abroad, and which banks in Los Angeles are commonly used by international students.
What documents are required to open a bank account in the U.S.?
Most U.S. banks ask international students to present:
- Valid passport
- U.S. visa (usually F-1)
- Form I-20 issued by the school
- Proof of U.S. address
(lease agreement, school letter, or official mail) - In some cases, proof of enrollment
Some banks may also accept additional identification, such as:
- Student ID with photo
Requirements vary by bank, but these are the most commonly accepted documents.
Step-by-step: How to open a bank account in the United States
1. Choose the right bank
Select a bank with branches near your school or home. In Los Angeles, many banks are experienced in working with international students.
2. Prepare your documents
Bring original documents, not screenshots or copies. Most banks do not accept digital-only versions.
3. Schedule an appointment (recommended)
Some banks allow you to schedule an appointment online, so you don’t have to wait in line.
To save time, visit the bank’s official website and book an appointment in advance. This is especially helpful during your first days in the U.S., when you are still organizing housing, school, and transportation.
Scheduling an appointment also allows the bank staff to prepare for your visit, which can make the process easier — especially if your English level is still developing.
4. Open the account at the branch
A banker will review your documents, explain the account options, and help you choose the best one.
5. Make the initial deposit
Some banks require a small opening deposit to activate the account.
Types of bank accounts in the U.S.
Checking Account (most common)
- Used for daily expenses
- Comes with a debit card
- Used for paying bills and receiving money
- Usually has a monthly maintenance fee
This is the recommended account for international students.
Savings Account
- Used to save money
- May earn interest
- Limited number of monthly transactions
- Often linked to a checking account
Understanding checking account fees (very important)
Most U.S. banks charge a monthly maintenance fee for checking accounts.
In many cases, this fee is waived if you keep a balance of around $300 in your checking account. However, this amount varies by bank. Always ask:
- What is the minimum balance to avoid fees?
- Does the balance need to be maintained daily or monthly?
- What happens if the balance falls below the required amount?
Understanding fees clearly helps you avoid unexpected charges.
Is a Social Security Number (SSN) required to open a bank account?
No.
Many international students can open a bank account without having an SSN. An SSN is a U.S. government–issued identification number mainly used for employment, taxes, and social benefits. Most international students do not have an SSN unless they are authorized to work in the U.S.
If you do not have an SSN, simply inform the banker — they are used to working with international students.
Do I need a U.S. phone number to open a bank account?
A U.S. phone number is usually not required, but it is strongly recommended.
Banks may use your phone to:
- Send one-time passcodes
- Verify transfers
- Contact you if there is an issue with your account
Having a U.S. phone number can make the process smoother.
Debit cards: what to expect
When you open a checking account, most banks automatically issue a debit card.
- Debit cards usually arrive within 7–10 days, but you will receive your card number and bank account details in advance.
- If you don’t receive it within two weeks, you can request a replacement online or through the bank’s app
How do international students receive money from their home country?
Many students receive financial support from parents or sponsors abroad. Common options include:
International wire transfer
- Money is sent directly to your U.S. bank account
- Your bank may charge a receiving fee
- The sending bank may also charge a fee
You may need:
- Bank name and address
- Account number and account type
- SWIFT or BIC code
- Your full legal name
International wire transfers usually take 1–5 business days.
Digital and electronic transfers
Some banks allow international or external transfers through online banking or mobile apps. Fees and processing times vary.
Always ask your bank:
- Are there fees to receive international money?
- How long does the transfer take?
- What information is required?
Banks commonly used by international students in Los Angeles
Major national banks
- Chase Bank
- Bank of America
- Wells Fargo
These banks are widely available and experienced with international students.
Community and international-focused banks
- Bank of Hope
- Hanmi Bank
- Shinhan Bank America
- East West Bank
- Cathay Bank
- HSBC
- Citibank
Many branches in Los Angeles offer multilingual staff.
Language tip:
Many students open a bank account during their first days in the U.S., when English may still be challenging.
Helpful tips:
- Ask the banker to speak slowly
- Ask questions
- Use translation apps
- Use Google Translate or ChatGPT to understand banking terms and fees
Never sign documents you do not fully understand.
How LSI can help you
Opening a bank account as an international student in the U.S. is a simple process when you are prepared. Understanding documents, fees, SSN rules, and international transfers helps you start your life in the U.S. with confidence.
At LSI, we guide students through every step of their transition to life in the United States, from academic preparation to practical essentials like banking, housing, and daily life. If you have questions, our team is ready to support you.
