Ok so an update on this. I went to LA last week for a few days. Pre-arranged appointments at Wells Fargo, Chase and BOFA to setup checking accounts.
Successfully opened WF and Chase checking accounts, just need to deposit money to avoid fees. WF required a $25 deposit there and then where as chase did not.
I needed to provide proof of US address (credit card statement or bank account statement), passport, drivers license and my SSN.
I actually never made it to the BOFA appointment unfortunately as something else got in the way. but overall pretty easy experience just takes a bit of time, id allow 1 hour per bank appointment. Hopefully not having the BOFA account wont hurt me too much down the line...
Side note I went to the LA Lakers V Clippers game in staples centre, and it was phenomenal..