Unconditionally Free U.S. Personal Checking Account for Non-U.S. Person without SSN/ITIN?

Hi everyone — asking for a friend who is a non-U.S. person with no SSN or ITIN.

Is there any practical way to open a personal checking account at a U.S. brick-and-mortar bank that is unconditionally free?

My friend visits the U.S. once or twice a year for a week or two and wants the account mainly for local expenses. Most banks we’ve checked charge monthly fees unless you meet waiver conditions like minimum balance, direct deposits, age requirements, or regular activity, which does not fit this travel pattern.

The only close option I found is BMO Smart Advantage Checking, but BMO branches are limited to certain states, mostly California, Illinois, Wisconsin, Colorado, and Arizona — not New York or surrounding states.

Any better ideas or personal experiences from nonresidents without an SSN/ITIN?

Thanks!

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