Cell phone plans for immigrants in the US — no contract, no SSN
Comparison of prepaid and postpaid plans in the US for Hispanic immigrants. Mint Mobile, US Mobile, T-Mobile Prepaid, Cricket Wireless. No SSN, no contract, cheap plans.
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: 2026-05-25.
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
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a phone plan without an SSN?
Which carriers work without an SSN or credit?
Prepaid or postpaid — which is better for a new immigrant?
Do I need credit to finance a phone?
The rules change. Hear about it first.
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General information, not legal advice. MigrantUSA is an independent publisher and is not a law firm; using this site does not create an attorney-client relationship, and this content is not a substitute for advice from a licensed attorney about your specific situation. US federal, state, and local government procedures, fees, and forms change. Always verify current details directly with the relevant agency before acting. For immigration, tax, or other legal matters specific to your situation, consult a licensed attorney or BIA-accredited representative.