Every major American bank and financial institution requires either a SSN, ITIN, or passport number to open a bank account. In many cases, you can also provide your government-issued identification number from your native country to create an account. You will not be able to open a bank account or get a debit card, secured credit card, or unsecured credit card without this information. Here is a rundown of the requirements set forth by most of the major U.S. banks: American Express: SSN, ITIN, or passport number Chase: SSN or ITIN number Bank of America: SSN, ITIN, or passport number Citibank: SSN, ITIN, or passport number (select cards only) Capital One: SSN or ITIN U.S. Bank: SSN or ITIN (secured cards only) Discover: SSN Wells Fargo: SSN or ITIN (secured cards only) Barclaycard: SSN Synchrony Bank: SSN USAA: SSN Keep in mind that each bank sets its own requirements for identification, and those requirements can change at any time and without notice. Check with the issuing bank to clarify its identification requirements for account activation before attempting to sign up or apply for any type of prepaid card or credit card.