Best Credit Cards for International Students in USA and Canada 2026

For international students moving to the USA or Canada in 2026, getting the right credit card can be a major step toward building a strong financial future. With no or limited credit history, the right student credit card helps you:

• Establish a credit score for future rentals, car loans, and even job applications
• Make secure payments for online and everyday purchases
• Avoid high foreign transaction fees and access emergency funds

Whether you’re looking for student credit cards with no annual fee, or student credit cards for international students with no credit history, the right choice matters. Here's a complete 2026 guide to the best credit cards for international students in USA and Canada.

What to Look for in the Best Credit Cards for International Students

Low or No Annual Fees

Annual fees add up quickly, especially on a student budget. Many of the best student credit cards now come with no annual fee, making them easier to keep year after year as you build credit.

Easy Approval with No or Thin Credit History

Most international students arrive without any local credit score. Look for cards that accept newcomers or offer secured options with minimal requirements. These are great credit cards for bad credit international students or students with no credit at all.

Rewards and Cash Back That Students Actually Use

Some student credit cards offer cash back rewards on everyday purchases like groceries, dining, and streaming services. Others may offer points for travel, which is helpful for flying back home during breaks.

Foreign Transaction Fees and Currency Considerations

Many cards charge 2.5%–3% foreign transaction fees. Choose one with no foreign fees if you plan to travel, or regularly use a non-local currency. This helps avoid hidden costs and stretches your money further.

Best Credit Cards for International Students in the USA (2026)

Credit card options in the U.S. vary widely, but some providers now cater specifically to international students. Here are examples of what to look for:

• Example Student Card A: No annual fee, accepts students with no SSN using passport and visa, 1% cash back on all purchases, and credit monitoring.
• Example Student Card B (Secured): Requires a refundable deposit as low as $200, reports to all major credit bureaus, and has no foreign transaction fees.
• Example Student Card C: Designed for students with a co-signer or U.S. financial history; offers 0% intro APR on purchases for 6 months and triple points on groceries.

In the U.S., many issuers now allow international students to apply without a Social Security Number (SSN), especially if they can show proof of enrollment, student visa, and income or financial backing.

Best Credit Cards for International Students in Canada (2026)

In Canada, most credit card issuers require some form of income or government-issued ID, such as the SIN (Social Insurance Number). Here are types of credit cards international students in Canada can look for:

• Example Canadian Student Card A: No annual fee, minimal income requirement, 2% cash back on groceries and 1% on everything else.
• Example Canadian Student Card B (Secured): Requires $500 security deposit, good for building credit, and allows online and in-person purchases across Canada.
• Example Canadian Student Card C: Co-signer optional, $39 annual fee, travel points rewards, emergency rental car coverage.

Canadian banks often offer special programs for newcomers, which may include a student chequing account, a high yield savings account, and bundled student credit card options.

Comparison Table: Key Features of Top International Student Credit Cards

Card Name	Annual Fee	Rewards	Foreign Transaction Fees	Eligibility	Pros	Cons
Student Card A (US)	$0	1% cash back on all purchases	0%	No SSN required, student visa	No annual fee, easy approval, credit reporting	Low cash back rate
Student Card B (Secured, US)	$0	None	0%	Refundable deposit, passport	Great credit builder, secured	No rewards
Student Card C (Canada)	$0	2% groceries, 1% other	2.5%	SIN, proof of enrollment	Targeted rewards, no annual fee	Foreign transaction fee
Student Card D (Secured, Canada)	$0	None	0%	Deposit required, study permit	Builds Canadian credit fast	No rewards

How International Students Can Improve Approval Odds

Using Secured Credit Cards as a Starter Option

Secured credit cards require a refundable deposit, making them ideal for students without credit history. After a few months of responsible use, you may qualify for an unsecured card with better terms.

Proving Income, Scholarship, or Funding

Some issuers may ask for proof of income or funding. Scholarships, work-study grants, or financial backing documents help prove your ability to repay and improve application success.

Using a Co‑Signer or Adding as Authorized User

If your lender allows, using a trusted U.S. or Canadian co-signer improves your chances. Alternatively, being added as an authorized user on a family member’s card can help you build credit gradually.

Smart Tips to Use Student Credit Cards Safely in 2026

Using your credit card wisely is just as important as choosing the right one. Smart use keeps you out of debt and builds a strong credit profile.

• Always pay your balance on time and in full to avoid interest.
• Keep your credit utilization under 30% for the best score growth.
• Use alerts to avoid missed payments or overcharging.
• Avoid high-interest personal loans for bad credit by maintaining good credit habits now.
• Explore additional financial products like a high yield savings account to build savings while studying.

FAQ: Best Credit Cards for International Students in USA and Canada 2026

Do international students need an SSN or SIN to get a credit card?

In the USA, some credit card companies accept applications without an SSN if you have a passport, visa, and proof of enrollment. In Canada, a SIN is typically required, but newcomer programs may offer alternatives.

Can international students get a credit card with no credit history?

Yes, many student and secured credit cards are designed specifically for those with no credit history. These are perfect first steps for international students.

Are secured credit cards good for international students?

Yes. Secured cards are easier to get approved for and help build your local credit history with responsible use. The deposit is refunded when you upgrade or cancel in good standing.

What is the best first credit card for international students?

The best first credit card is one with no annual fee, low requirements, credit reporting, and no foreign transaction fees. Rewards are a bonus but not essential when starting out.

How can international students build credit fast in USA/Canada?

Use your card regularly, pay in full and on time, and keep balances low. After 6–12 months, your credit score can grow significantly, opening access to better financial products and even balance transfer credit cards or 0 APR credit cards later.