If you are a non-US resident, who is planning to move to the US or intends to get a loan or credit card from a US bank, you need to know how to build yourself a good credit score, which is an essential requirement for getting a credit card or receiving a loan approval. Building credit as a non-US resident can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. In this blog post, we will explore tips and tricks on how to build credit as a non-US resident.
1. Apply for a secured credit card
A secured credit card requires a deposit upfront, which typically becomes your credit limit. It is an excellent choice for non-US residents who would like to start building up a credit score without having a social security number or a credit history in the US. With a secured credit card, you can use it to make purchases and pay your bills on time, which will help boost your credit score.
2. Become an authorized user
If you have a relative or close friend living in the US with a good credit history, consider asking them to add you as an authorized user on one of their credit cards. By doing this, the credit card company reports the payment activities to the credit bureaus, which can help establish a credit history for you. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the primary user of the card maintains a good credit score because late payments can negatively affect your credit score too.
3. Open a US bank account
Opening a US bank account is an excellent way to build credit as a non-US resident. Some banks offer credit cards to individuals with no credit history but have a savings account with them. Having an account with a US bank can also improve your credit score, as it shows your commitment to staying in the US and building financial relationships with US entities.
4. Pay your bills on time
One of the most important things you can do when building your credit score is to pay your bills on time. Late payments, even by a day, can negatively affect your score. It’s essential to ensure that all your bills, including rent, utilities, and credit card bills, are paid on time, so there is no late payment record on your credit report. It takes time, but paying your bills on time is one of the most effective ways to establish a good credit score.
5. Get a co-signer for a loan or credit card
If you want to get a loan or a credit card and you don’t have a good credit score, you may need a co-signer. A co-signer is a person who agrees to pay back the loan or credit card balance if you’re unable to. This person needs to have a good credit history, so they can help you get approved.
Conclusion:
Building credit as a non-US resident may seem daunting at first, but it’s doable if you follow the tips and tricks outlined above. The most crucial thing you can do to establish a good credit score is to be patient. It may take time, but with discipline, commitment, and consistency in paying your bills, you can build your credit score and increase your chances of getting approval for loans, credit cards, and mortgages.
Nabin Adhikari
