You’ve landed in the United States for a few months, maybe for a family visit, a business trip, or to explore the country as a digital nomad. Somewhere along the way, you realise how helpful it would be to have a US bank account. Paying for services, receiving payments from abroad, or just avoiding foreign exchange fees, it all becomes easier when you have access to a US account.

But if you’re not a resident or citizen, opening a bank account in the US can feel like hitting a brick wall. The good news? There’s a way around it — you can open a virtual USD account with Grey, no matter where you are in the world.

I’ll show you how to open a US bank account as a temporary visitor or tourist, and how Grey makes the process seamless and borderless.

Can you open a US bank account as a visitor?

Technically, yes — but the process through traditional banks is not easy or visitor-friendly.

Most US banks require the following:

• A US address
• A Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)
• Two forms of government-issued ID
• In-person visits to a branch for verification

For most short-term visitors or digital nomads, this creates a barrier. Without US documentation, you’ll likely be turned away. And even if you manage to open an account, maintaining it remotely or accessing your funds from outside the US can be challenging.

That’s why many travellers are turning to international financial platforms like Grey, which offer the same functionality, minus the paperwork and limitations.

Also read: How to open US and UK bank accounts in East Africa

Why you might need a US bank account as a visitor

Opening a US account is a strategic financial move during your stay. With a USD account, you can:

• Receive payments from US employers, clients, or freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr.
• Shop online from US retailers without worrying about foreign transaction fees.
• Avoid high exchange rates and withdrawal charges when spending or withdrawing USD.
• Pay for subscriptions and services like Amazon, Netflix US, or local apps with ease.
• Manage your finances in USD while keeping your local currency untouched.

If you're a digital nomad or a freelancer travelling through the US, having access to a stable, fully functional USD account makes everyday transactions much simpler.

Also read: How to open US bank accounts in Cameroon

Opening a US bank account as a temporary visitor or on a visit visa with Grey

Grey offers a frictionless way to open and manage a USD account from anywhere, without needing a US address or citizenship. With Grey, you get access to a virtual USD account that works just like a domestic US bank account. You can send, receive, hold, and convert US dollars, all from your phone or laptop. Here’s how to do it:

Sign up

Head to grey.co or download the Grey app to create your account. It takes just a few minutes.

Complete your identity verification (KYC)

Upload a government-issued ID (passport, national ID, or driver’s license), a selfie, and a proof of address document. Grey uses this to verify your identity and ensure your account is secure and compliant with regulations.

Get your virtual USD account

Once verified, you can generate a fully functional USD account. It comes with a US account number and routing number.

Receive payments globally

Share your USD account details with clients, employers, or platforms like Amazon, or Upwork. They can pay you directly, and funds will be credited to your Grey account.

Convert and withdraw funds

Use Grey’s built-in currency converter to switch between USD, GBP, EUR, and your local currency. Withdraw the funds to your local bank at competitive exchange rates.

Also read: Fastest way to receive USD freelance payments in China

Why Grey is ideal for temporary visitors in the US

Traditional banks in the US aren’t built for travellers. From requiring a Social Security Number to in-person visits, the process can be daunting for short-term visitors. Grey, on the other hand, was designed specifically for people who live, work, or travel across borders.

Here’s why it works so well:

• No US residency required: You don’t need to be a US citizen, green card holder, or even physically present in the US to open an account with Grey.
• Instant access to a USD account: Grey gives you real US banking details, which you can use for freelance platforms, online shopping, or receiving payments from clients and family.
• Multi-currency support: Alongside your USD account, you’ll also get access to EUR, GBP, and other currencies. This is perfect for managing international payments while travelling.
• Competitive rates and low fees: Grey offers better exchange rates and lower fees than traditional banks or money transfer services — especially helpful when converting between currencies.
• 100% digital onboarding: The entire sign-up process is remote. You don’t need to visit a branch or deal with paperwork.
• Withdraw to your local account: Once you receive funds in your Grey USD account, you can convert and withdraw them to your local bank account wherever you are.

Also read: How to create US and UK bank accounts as a migrant worker

For anyone visiting the US temporarily, Grey offers a modern, stress-free way to manage money internationally. You get all the benefits of a US-based bank account, without the paperwork, red tape, or restrictions. Create your Grey account today or download the app to enjoy inclusive global banking, designed to carry your dreams across borders.

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