Credit Scores Don’t Travel, But You Can Still Build Strong Credit in a New Country
If you’re an immigrant or a Non-Resident Indian (NRI), moving between countries means adjusting to a new culture, a new banking system and often, a new credit score. One of the most frustrating truths? Credit histories don’t transfer internationally.
That means a perfect credit score in India won’t help you in the US or the UK—and vice versa. But don’t worry. Each country offers tools and pathways to help new residents build strong credit from scratch.
Here’s how the credit systems work in India, the United States, and the United Kingdom, and what you can do to get ahead.
Credit Scoring for Immigrants & NRIs in the United States
The U.S. has one of the most influential and widely used credit systems in the world. It’s also one of the toughest for newcomers because no credit history = limited access to financial products.
Key Bureaus:
- Equifax
- Experian
- TransUnion
Credit Score Range: 300–850
Your score is based on:
- Payment history (35%)
- Credit utilization (30%)
- Length of credit history (15%)
- Credit mix (10%)
- New credit inquiries (10%)
For Immigrants/Nationals:
Most immigrants arrive with no U.S. credit file, which means banks and lenders see you as a risk—even if you were financially stable in your home country.
How to Start Building Credit:
- Open a secured credit card (e.g., from Capital One, Discover).
- Use services like Nova Credit to transfer your Indian credit file to the US (supported by select banks).
- Get a credit builder loan or open a U.S. bank account.
- Add your rent/utility bills to your credit file using services like Experian Boost.
Nova Credit Link: https://www.novacredit.com/
Credit Scores for NRIs and Expats in India
India uses a credit score system that is very similar to the Western model—but managed by different bureaus and slightly different data points.
Key Bureaus:
- CIBIL (most widely used)
- Experian India
- Equifax India
- CRIF High Mark
Score Range: 300–900
CIBIL considers:
- Loan and credit card repayment history
- Credit inquiries
- Credit utilization
- Length and mix of credit
For NRIs:
If you’ve been living abroad and want to invest in India (like buying a flat or starting a business), having a CIBIL score is key.
The challenge? NRIs who’ve been away for too long might have no active credit history, leading to a low or NA/NR (No Activity/No Record) score.
How to Build/Improve Credit in India:
- Keep at least one Indian savings account and credit card active.
- Apply for an NRI credit card or home loan through banks like HDFC, ICICI, SBI.
- Pay off any past dues old loans or cards even if you’ve moved abroad.
- Use CIBIL’s online portal to check or update your credit status: https://www.cibil.com/
Credit Scoring for Immigrants in the United Kingdom
The UK uses a credit scoring model that’s different from the US, and credit reference agencies assign credit reports, not specific “scores” each lender calculates its own rating based on your file.
Main Credit Agencies:
- Experian UK
- Equifax UK
- TransUnion UK
Score Range (as shown on consumer platforms):
- Experian: 0–999
- Equifax: 0–700
- TransUnion: 0–710
For New Arrivals:
You won’t have a credit report when you first move to the UK even if you’re a high-income earner. This can make it tough to rent a flat, get a phone contract, or apply for loans.
How to Build Credit in the UK:
- Register on the electoral roll at your current address.
- Open a UK bank account with a reputable provider.
- Get a credit builder credit card (e.g., from Aqua, Capital One UK).
- Always pay bills (like broadband or council tax) on time.
- Use open banking apps like LOQBOX to build credit via savings.
LOQBOX link: https://www.loqbox.com/en-gb/
Credit Tips for Global Citizens
Whether you’re building credit in India, the US, or the UK, some universal rules apply:
- Always pay bills on time.
- Keep your credit utilization low (ideally under 30%).
- Avoid too many applications at once, which can trigger hard inquiries.
- Monitor your credit regularly using free tools like Credit Karma (US), CIBIL Score (India), or ClearScore (UK).
Final Word: Different Systems, Same Goal Build Trust
As an immigrant or NRI, you’re already managing a complex transition. Understanding and building credit in your new country is another important part of establishing your financial identity.
The good news? You don’t have to start from scratch without support. With the right tools and habits, you can build or rebuild credit anywhere and unlock better opportunities in every part of the world.