If you have been wondering if opening a Bank of America was possible, we hope to clarify it in this article. Opening a US bank account as a non-resident can make managing international payments, investments, and savings far easier.

Bank of America is one of the largest banks in the United States. It offers account options that non-residents can access with proper documentation and preparation.

If you are a freelancer, remote worker, international student, or entrepreneur looking to open a Bank of America account without US residency, here is everything you need to know.

Read also: The best international bank accounts for freelancers and remote workers

Can a non-resident open a Bank of America account?

Yes, Bank of America allows non-residents to open accounts. However, the process is slightly different from what US citizens or residents experience.

Non-residents typically need to provide additional documentation and may be asked to visit a branch physically, depending on their situation and location.

Why open a Bank of America account as a non-resident?

Some key advantages include:

• Ability to receive payments from US clients faster and more securely.
• Easier access to US-based services like PayPal, Stripe, and marketplaces
• Hold USD without forced conversion to your local currency.
• Build a US financial footprint for future opportunities such as loans, investments, or visa applications.

Read also: How to open an offshore private bank account as a US citizen

Requirements to open a Bank of America account as a non-resident

Here is what you will generally need:

• A primary means of identification like a valid passport.
• Secondary means of identification such as a driver’s licence, a major debit or credit card - Visa or Mastercard.
• Proof of address (both your US address and foreign address). This can include a government-issued identity card, your recent utility bill bearing your name and address, or a rental agreement.
• A Foreign Tax Identification Number (FTIN) issued by a country other than the US.
• A US phone number (for verification purposes).
• Initial deposit (varies by account type, usually from $25 to $100)

Note: Some branches might have stricter requirements, so it is always good to call ahead or schedule an appointment.

Step-by-step: How to open a Bank of America account as a non-resident

1. Choose the right account

Bank of America offers various account types. For non-residents, the most common choices are:

• Advantage SafeBalance Banking: A basic, easy-to-maintain account
• Advantage Plus Banking: Includes more features, such as paper cheques

Review the fees, minimum balances, and features before choosing.

2. Prepare your documents

Ensure you have your passport, secondary ID, proof of address, and any tax documents ready. It is helpful to have originals and copies.

3. Visit a Bank of America branch

Non-residents are usually required to open an account in person. Use Bank of America’s branch locator to find a convenient branch and book an appointment if necessary.

When you visit:

• Explain that you are a non-resident and wish to open an account.
• Present your documents.
• Complete the necessary forms with the help of a banking officer.

4. Make your initial deposit

You will be asked to make an opening deposit. You can deposit cash, use an international wire transfer, or sometimes fund it with a debit or credit card.

5. Set up online banking

Once your account is active, you will get access to Bank of America’s online and mobile banking tools, allowing you to manage your account remotely.

Read also: How non-U.S. residents can open accounts at Chase, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America

Important tips for non-residents

• If you do not have a US address, some branches may allow you to use a mail-forwarding address or the address of a friend or family member.
• Opening an account is easier if you have an ITIN, but some locations accept applications without one.
• Some branches in major cities (like New York, Miami, and Los Angeles) are more familiar with non-resident applicants.

Opening a virtual USD account with Grey

Considering the inconvenience of travelling to the US just to open a bank account, having a reliable digital option iis a huge relief. Grey offers an easier solution if you need an USD account quickly.

With Grey, you can create a virtual USD account online within minutes. You get your own USD bank details, which you can use for international payments, freelance work, and business transactions — without needing US residency or a visa.

Benefits include:

• Instant USD account setup from your home country
• Receive payments globally without hidden fees
• Withdraw to your local bank account easily

It is a smart way to enjoy many of the benefits of a US account without the hassle.

Managing a US bank account with Grey

Opening a Bank of America account as a non-resident is very possible with preparation, patience, and the right documents. It is typical of traditional banks to require complex paperwork. However, with a reliable fully online banking solution like Grey, you can access a USD account just a few steps from anywhere in the world.

Grey offers a versatile instant virtual USD card to improve your financial flexibility. With low transaction fees and favourable exchange rates, users enjoy virtual banking at its best.

Sign up with Grey today to also enjoy the finest virtual banking experience.

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