Opening a US bank account from HK

[strikerz19]

Anyone have experience opening a US bank account (savings or checking) from HK?
I am a US citizen with no permanent US address or state ID (never lived there)
I do have a passport/SSN

Anyone done it over the net without visiting personally? Can you share your experience?

Thanks!

[MABinPengChau]

I am a US citizen, grew up in the US, have tons of state IDs, passport and US address. I needed to open a new account from Japan, back in 2007- they made me come in person. Sigh.

I would go to Citibank (HK) and see if they can do anything for you.

There's a lot of crazy rules...maybe you can convince them that you will get the application notarized at the US Consulate. Tell them you would love to come to the US but can't because of COVID, anything.

Good luck!

[huja]

@MABinPengChau That sucks . . . perhaps things are different with the proliferation of online banks?

Whether you apply for a bank account online or in person, you’ll need a government-issued ID and personal details, such as your Social Security number, on hand. You might also be asked to fund your account with an initial deposit.

Here’s what you need to open a new checking or savings account and what to expect during the process.

What you need to open a bank account
The information you’ll be asked to provide will be much the same, whether you’re opening a checking account, a savings account or both: You’ll need to provide a valid, government-issued photo ID, such as a driver’s license or a passport. Nondrivers can get a state ID card at the Department of Motor Vehicles office. You might also need to provide other basic information, such as your birthdate, Social Security number or phone number.

Some banks require an initial deposit, too. Skip ahead to read more about

https://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/bank...trk=nw_gn1_4.0

[MABinPengChau]

It's kind of up to the bank...I guess since they knew I lived in Japan it sent up terrorism/money laundering red flags.

I think for someone who never lived in the US, they would want you to come in person.

Yeah, maybe online is better route- but better have a social security number or no hope.

Still, more pleasant than the joy of trying to open a business account here in HK...

[strikerz19]

It's kind of up to the bank...I guess since they knew I lived in Japan it sent up terrorism/money laundering red flags.

I think for someone who never lived in the US, they would want you to come in person.

Yeah, maybe online is better route- but better have a social security number or no hope.

Still, more pleasant than the joy of trying to open a business account here in HK...

Seems online accounts still need a US address / US external bank account. Any idea on which online bank or other options which does not have these requirements?

Also, how long did it take you to open your bank account when you visit in person? I imagine it might be more difficult without state ID and foreign employment?

Thanks

[MABinPengChau]

Seems online accounts still need a US address / US external bank account. Any idea on which online bank or other options which does not have these requirements?

Also, how long did it take you to open your bank account when you visit in person? I imagine it might be more difficult without state ID and foreign employment?

Thanks

The bank opened it on the spot when I went in to open the account, it wasn't that hard. Not sure if you have to show anything like a utility bill in your name at the address- after 9/11 all the issues of money laundering for terrorists became a big deal and more proof was needed...

Not sure if they take a PO box or other non-residential addresses (like an attorney or a company address)...