Can I lease a car with an ITIN instead of a Social Security number?

Some lenders accept an ITIN in place of a Social Security number, usually with proof of income and residence. Not all do, and requirements change, so check with the specific lender.

Can I lease a car on a work visa?

Often, subject to lender approval. Some manufacturer programs are aimed at visa holders. Expect to provide your passport, visa, I-94 and proof of employment, and many lenders will not let the lease run past your authorised stay.

Will I pay more to lease without a Social Security number?

Possibly. Lenders with less information may ask for more money at signing, a security deposit or a higher money factor. A co-signer with established US credit can help.

Can You Lease a Car Without a Social Security Number?

Most lease applications ask for a Social Security number, but not every lender requires one. Here are the routes that exist and what they ask for.

Almost every lease application asks for a Social Security number, because that is how US lenders check credit. If you do not have one, whether you are newly arrived, on a work visa, or otherwise do not qualify for one, your options are narrower but they exist.

Everything here is subject to lender approval, and lenders' requirements change. This is part of our guide to leasing a car for the first time.

The routes that exist

Lenders that accept an ITIN. An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number is issued by the IRS to people who need to file taxes but cannot get a Social Security number. Some lenders will process a lease application with an ITIN in place of an SSN, typically alongside proof of income and residence.

Manufacturer programs for visa holders and newcomers. Some brands' finance arms have run programs for people on work visas or newly relocated to the US, sometimes with limited or no US credit history. Requirements vary by brand and change over time.

A co-signer with a Social Security number and established credit. If someone you trust has strong US credit, they can co-sign. See do you need a co-signer to lease a car.

Leasing through a business. If you own or work for a US business with its own credit, a business lease may be possible, often with a personal guarantee.

What lenders usually ask for

Without a Social Security number, lenders typically want more evidence rather than less:

A passport and, where relevant, your visa and I-94 record.
Your ITIN, if you have one.
Proof of income, such as recent pay stubs or an employment letter stating salary and start date.
Proof of US residence, such as a lease agreement or utility bill.
A valid driver's license. Requirements for foreign licenses vary by state.
Proof of insurance. See insurance for a leased car.

See documents needed to lease a car for the full standard list.

What to expect on terms

Because the lender has less to go on, expect some combination of:

More money due at signing, or a security deposit.
A higher money factor than a borrower with established US credit.
A term that ends before your visa expires. Many lenders will not lease beyond your authorised stay.
Limits on the car or the approval amount.

Building US credit alongside

If you plan to stay, starting a US credit history early pays off:

Apply for an ITIN if you are eligible and do not have one.
A secured credit card that accepts ITIN applicants, used lightly and paid in full.
Keep your rent and utilities in your name, and ask whether your landlord reports rent payments.

See leasing a car with no credit history for more.

The short version

Leasing without a Social Security number is possible with some lenders, through ITIN acceptance, visa holder programs, a co-signer or a business lease. Expect to provide more documentation and possibly more money up front.

Which route works depends on your documents and the lenders involved. If you want us to look at your situation, get in touch.