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How do you build credit if you are not a US citizen?

Author

Andrew Campbell

Updated on February 16, 2026

Fortunately, there are many ways that someone without US citizenship can still build a strong and positive credit score.

  1. Get Identification.
  2. Start Building Credit Immediately.
  3. Get Credit for Rent.
  4. Make All Payments on Time.
  5. Monitor your Credit Report.
  6. Take Advantage of Preparation Services.

How does an undocumented immigrant build credit?

Here are some additional ways immigrants can get a credit card in the US:

  1. Open a bank account in an international bank in the US.
  2. Show evidence of positive credit in your home country.
  3. Visit a bank to open checking and savings accounts.
  4. Find a co-signer.
  5. Get a job.
  6. Get a secured credit card.
  7. Pay your rent on time.

Can a non US citizen have credit?

Most credit card companies offer credit cards to legal residents and U.S. citizens alike. Undocumented immigrants may have fewer options, but there are credit card issuers, banks and credit unions that offer credit cards to applicants regardless of citizenship status.

How can I build credit in another country?

5 ways to build an exceptional credit history

  1. Get access to credit. It’s not easy getting approved for a credit account without a credit history, but it’s not impossible.
  2. Make payments on time every time.
  3. Keep credit card balances low.
  4. Get access to your credit score.
  5. Be patient.

Can I use my UK credit score in the US?

Yes, they are the same companies operating on both sides of the pond. However, your UK credit history does not translate to the US, and vice versa. In both countries, these credit bureaus collect information about your credit history and credit behaviors, as well as personal information.

Can an undocumented person get a loan?

Can non-U.S. Citizens Get Personal Loans? Many banks and lenders will not issue a loan to non-citizens without a cosigner, but it is still possible. There are exceptions, such as Stilt, which enable U.S. immigrants to get a loan even if they have no credit history or Social Security number.

How can I build up my credit history?

You can then use the card, pay every month as usual, and build up a credit history. The card I used, after a year of perfect payments they paid me back the security sum, with a small amount of interest.

Can a new US citizen build a good credit score?

The good news is, you CAN start to build a good credit score even if you’re new to the US, and not a U.S. citizen. Some people try to build credit using lines of credit such as credit-builder loans or secured credit cards to demonstrate their creditworthiness.

How can I get credit if I’m not an US citizen?

You can at least establish a U.S. mailing address using a service like Earth Class Mail. A legal permanent resident with a SSN can establish credit on the same terms as a U.S. citizen with a SSN; there’s no discrimination based on citizenship (but there will be a lot of discrimination based on lack of credit history).

How can an immigrant get a credit card?

Apply for a U.S. credit card A Social Security number is the most common form of identification card issuers ask for on applications. Generally only non-citizens with a work permit will be able to get a Social Security number. But a Social Security number is not your only I.D. option when applying for credit.