Can You Get a Credit Card Without a Social Security Number?

By Bryce Casson, Founder · Cardocrat · Updated July 2026
The short answer: Often yes. While many applications ask for a Social Security number, some issuers accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead, and certain newcomer programs let you apply with a passport and visa. If those are not available to you, a secured card is a dependable way to start building credit without an SSN.

This guide explains the ways to get a card without an SSN and how to build credit from there.

Using an ITIN

An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number, or ITIN, is issued to people who need to file US taxes but are not eligible for a Social Security number. A number of card issuers accept an ITIN on applications, so if you have one, you may be able to apply for a standard card much as anyone else would.

Newcomer programs

Some issuers run programs aimed at newcomers to the US that accept alternative identification, such as a passport and visa, and sometimes your foreign banking relationship, in place of an SSN. These, along with the tactics in credit cards for newcomers, are built for exactly this situation.

Secured cards as a fallback

If an ITIN or a newcomer program is not an option, a secured card is the most reliable path. Secured cards approve easily because they are backed by a refundable deposit, and many are available without an SSN. Whichever route you take, using the card responsibly builds a US credit file, since your history from abroad does not carry over.

The bottom line
  • Some issuers accept an ITIN in place of an SSN.
  • Newcomer programs may accept a passport and visa.
  • Secured cards are a reliable no-SSN-required fallback.
  • Building local credit is the goal once you are approved.
  • Foreign credit history does not transfer.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a credit card without a Social Security number?
Often yes. Some issuers accept an ITIN, newcomer programs may accept a passport and visa, and secured cards are frequently available without an SSN.
What is an ITIN and can I use it for a credit card?
An ITIN is a taxpayer ID for people not eligible for an SSN. Some issuers accept it on applications, so you may be able to apply much like anyone else.
How do newcomers to the US build credit without an SSN?
Through issuers that accept an ITIN or newcomer identification, or with a secured card. Responsible use then builds a US credit file, since foreign history does not transfer.

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Bryce Casson

Written by Bryce Casson, Founder of Cardocrat. About the author and how we rank cards.