Hey all,

I'm in Canada and just verified that with a US address (family retreat), I could apply for a card. The thing is, I cannot process the application online since it asks for a SSN number that I don't have (by law is not required BTW). I also don't have a big credit history in the US, only in Canada. What would be the chances of getting approved?

Also, what are the chances of applying for a biz AMEX if I have little to no biz in the US? Can I still try to apply with the same address as my personal? Is that a risky move?

It's a bit of a tricky situation getting the most out of these rewards. I hope I can get through to some of them even with the extra obstacle I face...

Feedback / pointers would be greatly appreciated.

W7 to file a US tax return gives you a number? From there?

So basically you have no social security number, no credit history (in the US), no US identification, and have never filed a US tax return? The only thing you have is a US address that you can have mail shipped to?

You'll have a hard enough time getting a basic no frills card with zero rewards and a 30% APR let alone a decent rewards card.

Sorry

In order to file a return you need to either have taxable income/loss or have an active business connections with the United States. You cannot just voluntary submit return with all zeros.

Going even further W7 requires original, notarized or certified copies of some of you documents submitted along with it. Not sure how things work outside of the USA but in many states to get notarized copies of the documents is simply impossible (have personal experience with North Carolina, South Carolina and Georgia).

Then you have to establish some type of US credit history which is a challenging task even with a SSN leaving alone with an ITIN...

I will not continue this list but trust me that getting a US credit card for someone not eligible for SSN and not permanently residing in the US is next to impossible. PM me is you need any further details.