Can international students use PayPal without a US phone number?

International students can use PayPal without a US phone number, as long as they register with a phone number from their home country and keep that same number active for verification.

Using PayPal Without a US Phone Number

You can open and use a PayPal account with a non‑US phone number. PayPal accepts most international numbers during sign‑up. What matters is that the number can receive SMS codes, because PayPal often sends security messages when you log in from a new device, change settings, or move between countries.

If you already meet all other requirements such as having a working phone number, valid ID from your home country, and a card or bank account that PayPal supports, you can fully operate the account without ever adding a US number.

How It Works in Practice

• Registration: Enter your home country and phone number. PayPal will text a code to verify it. This number becomes your main security contact.
• Identity verification: PayPal may ask for a passport or national ID. International students can complete verification with documents from their home country.
• Linking money sources: You can link a non‑US debit or credit card. A US bank account is optional unless you want to withdraw money in the US.
• Receiving payments: You can receive money normally. No US number is needed for that.
• Using PayPal in the US: When you arrive in the US, PayPal may detect a new location. It might ask for a text confirmation, so keep your home SIM active or accessible.

Small but Important Warnings

• Do not switch phone numbers without updating PayPal: If PayPal tries to verify an old number and you cannot access it, the account may lock temporarily.
• Avoid VPNs during login: Sudden location changes can trigger extra security checks.
• If you later get a US number: You can add it as a second number for easier SMS access, but it is not required.

In short, a US phone number is optional. A stable, working phone number that can receive texts is what PayPal truly needs.