I would think the type of account is decided by your answers on their questionnaire setting up the account.

Find out what the requirements are for the tier you want and see if you match up

I have, as a non resident, opened an account at TD Ameritrade to buy options. I wanted the account type, “Tier 2 – Standard Cash”, but was given “Tier 1 – Covered”. The starting amount is only around $200, but it is enough for options on certain stocks like XLK, which i'm interested in. I have asked once to be upgraded to Tier 2 to no avail. I'm now “stuck” since the cost to wire this small amount was $20-plus each side. Is there any institution or person who would trade on my behalf?