A Guide to the Best Credit Cards for International Students
When you’re an international student, you need to build your name in the U.S. with a guide to the best credit cards for international students. There’s so much to adjust to in the U.S.-, a new school system, new friends to make, and getting a new credit card. While it can seem overwhelming, there is a way to find the best card for you.
What are the requirements for getting a credit card as an international student?
If you want to establish good credit in the U.S, you need these important pieces of information:
A permanent address. A permanent address shows that you can easily be found if the credit card company needs to contact you.
Employment. Any part-time or full-time employment shows that you can pay your credit card balance.
A bank account. A bank account is another way to prove to a credit card company that you can pay back your credit card debts.
A taxpayer identification number. Since you’re an international student, you won’t have a Social Security number for credit card companies to conduct a credit check. You can get a taxpayer identification number when you’re filing for taxes and use that as an alternative.
What are the qualifications for a good credit card?
A good credit card should have low interest. Annual fees should be low as well and shouldn’t exceed $40. Since you’re an international student, you want to find a card that charges only about 3% for international transactions. Here are some of the best credit cards for international students.
VisaPetal 1 and Petal 2 Credit Card
The Petal 1 Visa Credit Card is a card to help people build credit. When you apply for a credit card like Petal, your banking history is analyzed more than your credit history. Your income and spending history will determine whether you’re approved for the card.
Once you’re approved for the Petal 1 card, your credit limit is $500-$5,000. If you’re applying for the Petal 2 card and approved, the credit limit is twice as high at $10,000. The APR (annual percentage rate) ranges from 19.99%-29.49%. You can get 2-10% cash back at some stores. These are some other highlights.
No international fees.
No late fees.
Auto-pay enabled so you remember to make payments on time.
If you make payments on time for six months, your credit limit is increased.
Visa Deserve EDU Student Card
The Deserve EDU Student Card from Visa is the best credit card for international students that are starting their credit journey. The Deserve EDU lets you apply and you don’t need a Social Security Number. There are no international or annual fees, which saves you money. There is a variable 18.74% APR and a $5,000 limit. Here are some benefits.
Free Amazon Prime Student for a Year
Cellphone protection up to $600
Mastercard Platinum Benefits
1% Cash Back on Purchases
Mastercard Jasper Credit Card
The Jasper Card is one of the best credit cards for international students. The card doesn’t require a social security number at first, but does within 60 days. There are no annual or international fees with a $5,000 limit. The APR is 15-24%. These are some other perks.
6% cash back when you refer your friends,
Cellphone and auto rental coverage
Mobile app to help you track spending
Sable Credit Card
The Sable Credit Card is another of the best credit cards for international students. You can get approved in minutes and a Social Security Number isn’t required. The secured credit card’s APR is one of the lowest at 10.24% with a variable rate. The limit is based on how much you put on the Sable Credit Card. Here are some benefits.
2% cash back on Amazon, Netflix purchases
Travel assistance
Extended warranty
These cards are the best cards for international students. As you build your credit, these cards can help you establish credit to build your financial life in the U.S.
