To create this list of the best credit cards without an SSN requirement, we evaluated all cards that accept alternative forms of identification, such as ITINs. We ranked that pool of cards by considering welcome bonuses, fees, rewards and other perks. Forbes Advisor rates cards both as stand-alone products (the card rating on the review) and compared to others in a specific use case (the card rating you see on a specific “Best” list).
The rating for each card changes on different “Best” lists according to what features are valuable for that use case. For instance, a card that might be considered mediocre on a list of rewards cards. But if we compare it only to other cards with no annual fee, it could be the top card.
Forbes Advisor reevaluates each credit card list at least every six months to determine if any cards need to be added or removed. A list could also be updated sooner; however, if significant changes are made to included cards or if a new credit card is announced, that’s likely to impact the category.
To learn more about our rating and review methodology and editorial process, check out our guide on how Forbes Advisor rates credit cards.
How Can International Applicants or Newcomers to the U.S. Build Credit Without a Social Security number?
Brian Muse-McKenney
Credit Cards Expert
Robin Frankel
Credit Cards Writer
Becky Pokora
Credit Cards Writer
No SSN? No problem. You can start building U.S. credit with an ITIN, become an authorized user on a friend or family member’s credit card or explore financial technology platforms like Petal designed to help newcomers build credit from scratch.
It can be challenging to get a credit card without a Social Security number, but if you have an ITIN, that will serve the same purpose with many issuers.
Citizens of some countries may be eligible to apply for an American Express card through their Global Card Relationship program, even without a Social Security number. Then, building credit can be done by managing your account and making payments responsibly.