How to Get the Best Credit Cards for International Students

As an international student, navigating the world of credit cards can be overwhelming. Many credit cards come with high fees and interest rates that can quickly add up, making it difficult to manage your finances.

In the US, international students are often considered "non-citizens" and may not have a credit history, making it harder to get approved for a credit card. However, some credit cards are specifically designed for international students, offering benefits like no foreign transaction fees and rewards programs.

To get the best credit cards for international students, you'll want to look for cards that don't charge foreign transaction fees, which can be as high as 3% of the transaction amount.

Choosing the right credit card can be a daunting task, especially for international students navigating a new country.

The right card's out there, and answering a few questions can help narrow the search.

International students often prioritize paying less interest, so cards with low or no annual fees can be a good starting point.

Some credit cards offer rewards that can be redeemed for travel expenses, which can be a great benefit for students studying abroad.

The key is to find a card that aligns with your financial goals and spending habits.

Answering questions like how much you want to spend on interest and what rewards you're looking for can help you find the perfect card.

By considering your individual needs, you can make an informed decision and avoid overspending.

As an international student, you may face challenges when applying for a credit card. Fortunately, there are workarounds to help you get approved.

To get a credit card, you'll need a Social Security Number (SSN) or an alternative identification number. If you're on a student or academic Visa, you can obtain an SSN. Most nonimmigrant visas, including F-1, J-1, Q-1, M-1, or Q2, allow for employment and SSN application.

If you can't get an SSN, you can apply for an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from the IRS using Form W-7. This number is similar to an SSN and can be used for credit card applications.

Some credit card issuers accept ITIN numbers, making it easier for international students to get approved. Capital One offers two credit cards that allow ITIN applications: the SavorOne Student Cash Rewards Credit Card and the Quicksilver Rewards for Student Rewards card. You can also consider the Petal 2 Visa card, but you'll need a U.S. phone number and address to apply.

Getting a co-signer can be a great option for building credit in the US. A co-signer is someone who agrees to be responsible for the debt if you don't pay it.

If you have a relative or close friend who has been in the US longer than you, it may be possible to get them to co-sign for a credit card. This can be a challenge if you're new to the country and don't have much of a support system.

Check out our list of credit card issuers that allow co-signers to find out which ones might be a good fit for you.

You can apply for a credit card even without a Social Security Number (SSN). If you have a student or academic Visa, you might be able to obtain an SSN.

Some credit card companies accept an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) in place of an SSN. This is a tax processing number issued by the IRS.

You can apply for a credit card with an ITIN, which is the same format as an SSN. To get an ITIN, you'll need to apply at the IRS using Form W-7.

Some credit card issuers may also accept your passport with an application. This can be a convenient option if you don't have an SSN or ITIN.

Here are some credit card options that allow you to apply with an ITIN:

If you have a relative or close friend who has been in the U.S. longer than you have, they may be able to co-sign for a credit card. A co-signer is someone who agrees to be responsible for the debt if you don't pay it.

International students in the US can benefit from credit cards that cater to their unique needs. The best credit cards for international students offer perks and bonuses aimed at student requirements.

Top credit card options allow users to apply for a line of credit with or without a Social Security Number. This can be a game-changer for international students who may not have a SSN yet.

One of the key factors to consider when choosing a credit card is the annual fee. Look for credit cards with no or low annual fees to save you money. Some credit cards even offer no annual fees at all!

International transaction fees can add up quickly, especially when traveling abroad. Opt for credit cards that have no international transaction fees to avoid these extra charges.

A low or 0% initial purchase APR can be a huge help when you're buying textbooks, laptops, or other essential items. This can give you some breathing room and help you pay off your balance without interest.

Cashback programs are another great feature to look for in a credit card. You can earn rewards on your everyday purchases, such as groceries or gas, and use them to offset your expenses.

Travel rewards and miles can be a fantastic perk, especially if you plan to travel back home or explore the US during your studies. Some credit cards offer generous sign-up bonuses or rewards for travel-related purchases.

Some credit cards even offer lower rates for academic achievement, which can be a great motivator to do well in your studies.

If you're an international student, you're probably looking for a credit card that meets your needs. One of the best ways to find the right card is to compare different options.

Before deciding on a credit card company, make sure you've researched all the available options and compared them. Each card issuer has its own set of requirements and perks, so you want to choose the best one for you.

Discover, Capital One, Bank of America, and Deserve are some of the top credit card companies for international students.

You can compare credit cards based on factors like annual fees, rewards, and requirements for identification. For example, the Discover it Student Chrome card has a $0 annual fee and requires either a Social Security number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) for identification.

Here are some of the top credit cards for international students:

Another option is to talk to your school's credit union. They may offer a branded credit card that's specifically designed for students. Since you're enrolled in classes, your school's credit union should be able to verify your identity easily.

International students face unique challenges when it comes to getting a credit card in the U.S. The first step is to obtain a Social Security number if you have a U.S. work permit, which can take several weeks. This will allow you to apply for a credit card from any of the 10 largest issuers.

If you're unable to get a Social Security number, becoming an authorized user on someone else's credit card can be a viable option. Alternatively, you can consider applying for a credit card that doesn't require a Social Security number, such as the Petal 2 Visa Credit Card or the Coign Credit Card.

Some popular credit cards for international students include the Discover it Student Card, which offers no annual fees and a cashback bonus for good grades. The Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card is another great option, with a $0 foreign transaction fee and cashback rewards.

To get started with building credit in the US, international students can apply for a Social Security number, which can be obtained within a few weeks if the information is accurate and valid.

Having a Social Security number is essential for getting a credit card from any of the 10 largest issuers.

If you can get someone you trust to add you as an authorized user on their credit card, you may not need your own account.

Here are some secured credit card options for international students:

Bank of America is a well-established bank that offers a range of credit cards, including ones specifically designed for international students.

To apply for a Bank of America credit card, you don't necessarily need a Social Security Number (SSN) - an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) can be used instead.

Bank of America credit cards offer great rewards, low APR promotions, and no annual or foreign fees, making them a popular choice for students.

The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card for Students is a great option for international students, offering excellent rewards and a low APR promotion.

If you're planning to study abroad, getting a credit card with no foreign transaction fee is a must. The Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card has a $0 foreign transaction fee.

You'll also want to consider the annual fee, which is $0 for this card. This means you won't have to worry about extra charges on your bill.

Having a credit card with good rewards can also be a big plus, especially if you're going to be spending a lot of money on everyday purchases. The Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card offers 1 - 8% cash back on these purchases.

Opening a U.S. account abroad can be a challenge, especially for international students who want to establish credit in the U.S.

If you're an international student, you can open a credit card in the U.S. but the process may be more complicated. Credit card issuers typically review your credit history to approve you for credit, but if you don't have credit history in the U.S., it can be more difficult to get a credit card.

Some credit card issuers may require a co-signer who has a good credit history in the U.S. This can be a good option if you have a family member or friend who is willing to co-sign for you.

Having a co-signer can increase your chances of getting approved for a credit card, but it's essential to understand that you'll be responsible for making payments and maintaining good credit.

Studying abroad can be a life-changing experience, but it's essential to be prepared for the financial aspects. You'll need a credit card that won't charge you extra on international purchases.

A foreign transaction fee can add up quickly, so look for a card with a $0 foreign transaction fee. The Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card has this feature, making it a great option.

Limited credit doesn't have to be a barrier to getting approved for a credit card. The Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card can be approved with limited credit, which is a big plus.

Having a credit card with a $0 annual fee can save you money in the long run. The Capital One Savor Student Cash Rewards Credit Card has a $0 annual fee, making it a great choice for students.

Travel insurance can provide peace of mind when you're abroad. Some credit cards, like the ones mentioned, offer travel insurance as a perk.