How easy/hard is open US bank account in US branch for foreigner?

[Ultimate]

I will go to NYC and just would like to know it is possible to open US bank account directly in branch for foreigner? How easy or hard it is? If I am not citizen of US, but I am US postal address , it is generally possible?

I will go there for 10 days and it will be great if it will be possible and later use them for stealth accounts.

Thanks in advance!

[mercurial333]

You need a Social Security Number to open a bank account.

With a tourist VISA you can't apply for an SSN I believe. Also it takes about 3-4 weeks to receive the SSN after you apply for it.

[degsey69]

A tourist will not get a SSN and because of the patriot act it is virtually impossible for them to get a US bank account because of money laundering concerns.

[BiN4RY]

For those of you saying that you must have a SSN to open up bank accounts, you are not necessarily being correct. As a Canadian, all they want to see is two pieces of government issued picture ID and you're good to go. No SSN or SIN needed. I'm not sure if they will open up bank accounts for anyone else though.

[C.Japschin]

Chase and Bank of America doesn't require SSN. You'll need to bring your passport, 2nd photo official id, all the associated documents (e.g Visa) you entered USA with and the rq'd amt for the account.
If it fails, I think there are some online services which can help foreigners open up a bank account.

[GreenBean]

Not easy. Lot of preparation
Variety of answers.

Depends on coutry of citizeship ie what passport is held.

Depends on what VISA has been used to enter the USA.

For the banks mentioned by C.Japschin the amount of your DEPOSIT will determine if you get to be their customers. Present those banks with US$250,000 funds and be welcomed.
Other options exist

[Ultimate]

For my country I dont need VISA to States, it will make any difference?

[Ultimate]

Today I contacted with B of America online custumer chat support and they told me that it is pretyy easy there!
I can open checking bank account directly in one day! as foreigner I need only passport and US mailing address to receive bank letters.
I specially asked that I have not ssn and I am in States only for short temporary time, and representive answer me that it is not problem...

Really looks that it will be more easier then looks for more of us in comments here, not?

[Omgoozle]

Bring a letter saying that you're a student taking classes at a college. They will overlook a lot of things if they think you are a foreign student who just wants to get settled in the US of A.

[mercurial333]

Originally Posted by Ultimate

Today I contacted with B of America online custumer chat support and they told me that it is pretyy easy there!
I can open checking bank account directly in one day! as foreigner I need only passport and US mailing address to receive bank letters.
I specially asked that I have not ssn and I am in States only for short temporary time, and representive answer me that it is not problem...

Really looks that it will be more easier then looks for more of us in comments here, not?

I guess Password is good enough after all

Good to know.

[rsot]

Really looks that it will be more easier then looks for more of us in comments here, not?

What more do you need? If Bank of America agent says ok then go! I have opened up accounts with just ID. I don`t see what more you need...this aint no bank agent forum ha

[degsey69]

Looking into it a bit more I believe that the bank run your passport number through the FBI to verify your identity and to see if you are not wanted or anything.