There are a number of potential benefits that come with having a local account while you’re in the United States. Potential benefits of opening a bank account in the U.S. However, there may be a little bit of additional paperwork involved. Some non-residents sometimes believe they're ineligible to open a bank account in this country. Having a checking account can be a way to build a solid foundation for your financial life in the U.S. Many of them arrive here as international students attracted by top-notch educational opportunities, while others arrive for work. Every year, thousands of people from every corner of the globe migrate to the United States.