Personal Insights

How to open a bank account as an international student

Key takeaways

• Opening a U.S. bank account can make everyday life as an international student easier and more secure
• Most international students open both a checking and savings account to manage spending and build healthy habits
• You’ll typically need a passport, visa, proof of school enrollment and a Permanent Resident Card (if a Permanent Resident) to get started
• A Regions banker can help you build a Regions Greenprint® plan to organize your finances

Starting school in a new country is an exciting milestone but also comes with a long list of firsts. Opening your first U.S. bank account is one of the most important financial steps you can take as an international student.

A bank account helps you manage day-to-day expenses, receive funds from home and avoid carrying cash. Just as importantly, it helps you begin building strong financial habits that can support you well beyond your student years.

Step 1: Understand which accounts you’ll need

Most international students start with two core accounts: a checking account and a savings account. These accounts serve different purposes, but they work best when used together.

Checking account: Your everyday spending account

A LifeGreen® Checking for Students account is where you keep money for debit card purchases, rent and utility payments, ATM withdrawals, and online and mobile payments . A student checking account offers a straightforward way to manage daily spending.

Savings account: A place to build stability

A LifeGreen® Savings account helps you set money aside for emergencies, save for future goals and protect against overdrafts when linked to checking.

Step 2: Gather what you’ll need

International students should be prepared to provide the following documentation:

• Valid passport
• Student visa
• A permanent resident card (if a Permanent Resident)
• Proof of a U.S. address
• Proof of school enrollment
• Contact information

Step 3: Visit a branch and open the account

Once you’ve gathered all appropriate documents, the rest is easy! Visit a Regions branch near you. There, a banker can help verify documents, answer any questions you may have and set up your account.

After your account is open

When your account is active, be sure to explore all the financial tools available, such as using your debit card, paying bills electronically, monitoring balances online and setting up automatic transfers to savings.

Planning ahead with a Regions Greenprint® plan

For even greater financial confidence, ask a banker how a Regions Greenprint® plan offers free, personalized guidance to help you organize your finances, set goals and more.