I'm from China, and I'm now working as a J-1 intern in a company. I'm getting paid quite good, at least higher than the average, and my bank knew my salary.

And, my bank told me that I'm eligible to apply for a credit card (but I don't have credit history in the USA). However, after I submit my Credit Card application in a bank branch, I received a rejection from my bank's credit card department, saying:

*********************************************
Dear (My name):

Thank you for your interest in a (My bank's name) credit card account. Your request for a credit card was carefully considered and we are unable to approve your application at this time for the following reason(s):

NOT A PERMANENT RESIDENT

If you have questions...

We appreciate your interest in our consumer credit programs and look forward to the opportunity to serve you in the future.

...
*********************************************

I was so surprised that the rejections reason is "NOT A PERMANENT RESIDENT", and I felt I was discriminated. However, I'm not sure about the discrimination laws on credit card.

Any lawyers interested: Am I Discriminated?

The bank has the right to select their customers and without credit history in US, you are not qualified for unsecured credit card. However, you may try getting a secured credit card and build your credit history from there.

Each bank has its own policies, and many banks do not allow aliens to open an account with them, even you have valid visa.

This is not enough to make a case...