Cell phone plans for immigrants in the US
As a newly arrived immigrant or resident without SSN, you DO NOT need a postpaid contract plan to have good cellular service. Prepaid plans (MVNOs) offer the same service on the same networks (Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T) for much less money and no contract, no credit check, no SSN.
Top prepaid options (no SSN, no contract)
| Plan | Cost/month | Network | Data | Pros | Accepts ITIN |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mint Mobile | $15-$30 | T-Mobile | 5GB-Unlimited | Cheapest market, Spanish app | ✅ No ID required |
| US Mobile | $10-$45 | Verizon or T-Mobile | 2GB-Unlimited | Best network available | ✅ No ID required |
| Tello | $5-$25 | T-Mobile | 1GB-Unlimited | Cheapest customizable plan | ✅ No ID required |
| Visible (Verizon) | $25-$45 | Verizon | Unlimited | Best rural coverage + Verizon direct | ✅ No SSN required |
| Boost Mobile | $25-$60 | T-Mobile / Dish | Varied | Physical stores in Latino neighborhoods | ✅ Accepts ITIN |
| Cricket Wireless (AT&T) | $30-$60 | AT&T | Varied | Best rural coverage some states | ✅ Accepts ITIN |
Which to choose?
Want cheapest + good T-Mobile coverage in your area
→ Mint Mobile $15/month (with annual purchase) or Tello from $5
Need better coverage (rural / national)
→ US Mobile with Verizon network, or Visible directly
Need physical store + in-person customer service
→ Boost Mobile or Cricket Wireless
Want family (multiple lines)
→ US Mobile Pooled Plans (additional lines $5-$10 each)
Do I need a special phone?
No. Most modern phones work on ALL networks (CDMA + GSM). Just verify:
- If buying new phone: opt for “unlocked” — works with any carrier
- If bringing phone from your country: must be unlocked and compatible with US LTE bands
How to pay without US credit card
Most accept:
- Debit card from ITIN bank (Chime, Self, Varo)
- Prepaid card (Walmart MoneyCard)
- Boost/Cricket physical stores: cash
Related information
Last verified: 2026-05-24.
General procedural information for educational purposes. Not legal, tax, or immigration advice. Laws and fees change — verify with the issuing agency before taking action. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney or other appropriate professional.
Related procedural information
- Consulate of your country in the US — passport renewal, consular ID, document apostille
- ITIN — file federal taxes without SSN — required regardless of immigration status
- USCIS form library — federal immigration forms (I-130, I-485, N-400, etc.)
- Find an immigration attorney — pro bono lists + AILA + BIA-recognized
- Know Your Rights — ICE encounters — constitutional protections