Spouse just arrived on IR-1. Waiting for official green card to arrive. Open a bank account?

[manapegoesmod 0]

Hello everyone!

 

My wife arrived to the US with an IR-1 visa recently. We're still waiting for the official SSN card and green card to arrive. However, she would like to open a local bank account now. We just called Chase bank and were informed that we would have to wait for the official green card to arrive before opening a bank account with them. I was under the impression that the SSN and stamp on the IR-1 visa in the passport is the equivalent of a green card, so she should be able to open a bank account no problem. Has anyone else had any luck with a spouse opening a bank account right after arrival? Thanks!!

[JFH 12,190]

I got an account with Bank of America before the official plastic green card arrived. 

Edited May 29, 2018 by JFH

[ChrisJay11 31]

Technically it should work but if you ah e a strong reason for wanting a certain bank over another, maybe it makes sense to wait? You’ll get your green card maybe 6 weeks after arrival? The AmCit has a bank account and can do things for the spouse in the mean time. Just a thought...

 

Bank of America tends to be more lax in terms of requiring certain documents it would appear. 

[iulia.matey 25]

I had the same thing happen with Huntington, as they initially refused a few months ago, but after getting my social security card in my married name i gave it another try and they let me co-own my husband's account. If you're in a big city, try another office, they may not really be as restrictive and you just got someone who didn't feel like going through the hassle.

[Elrona 101]

For sure go and try. I got bank card (attached to my husband's account) after we got married and before we had even filed CR-1 paperwork.

[Ryan H 3,812]

Moved from IR-1/CR-1 Process & Procedures to Tax & Finances During US Immigration forum.