CTeBockhorst's Blog

The Mortgage and Real Estate Scoop

  • Home
  • About
  • Blog
  • Resources
    • Calculators
    • Download My eGuide Today!
    • First Time Buyer Tips
    • First Time Seller Tips
    • Loan Checklist
    • Loan Process
    • Loan Programs
    • Home Appraisal
    • Home Inspection
    • What to Expect at a Loan Closing: A Step-by-Step Guide
  • Apply
  • Reviews
    • Read My Reviews
    • Zillow Reviews
    • Leave a Review
  • Contact
You are here: Home / Archives for Mortgage Loans

Mortgage Options for Non-U.S. Citizens

March 21, 2025 by Coleen TeBockhorst

Purchasing a home in the U.S. as a non-U.S. citizen is entirely possible, but the process comes with unique requirements and considerations. Whether you are a permanent resident, temporary visa holder, or foreign national, understanding the available mortgage options can help you navigate the path to homeownership successfully.

Can Non-U.S. Citizens Qualify for a Mortgage?

Yes, many lenders offer mortgage options for non-U.S. citizens. However, eligibility is influenced by factors such as residency status, credit history, and income verification. The type of residency you hold will determine the loan programs available to you and the specific documentation required.

Mortgage Options Based on Residency Status

1. Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders – LPRs)

  • Eligible for conventional, FHA, VA, and USDA loans
  • Must provide a valid green card (Form I-551) and proof of income
  • Access to similar loan terms and interest rates as U.S. citizens

2. Non-Permanent Residents (Visa Holders – Work & Study Visas)

  • Eligible for conventional and FHA loans with a valid work visa (H-1B, L-1, O-1, TN, etc.)
  • Must demonstrate continuity of employment and residency
  • Typically require a Social Security Number (SSN) or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN)

3. Foreign Nationals (Non-Residents with No U.S. Visa)

  • Must apply for foreign national mortgage programs
  • Typically require a larger down payment (20-30%)
  • Some lenders accept alternative credit verification in the absence of a U.S. credit history

Key Mortgage Requirements for Non-Citizens

  • Credit Score: While a U.S. credit history is preferred, some lenders accept foreign credit reports or alternative proof of creditworthiness.
  • Down Payment: Non-U.S. citizens are often required to provide a higher down payment, typically ranging from 10-30%.
  • Income & Employment Verification: Lenders require proof of steady income, such as U.S. tax returns, pay stubs, or international financial statements.
  • ITIN or SSN: Most loan programs require a Social Security Number (SSN), but some programs allow the use of an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).

Best Loan Options for Non-U.S. Citizens

  • Conventional Loans: Suitable for permanent and non-permanent residents with a strong credit and employment history.
  • FHA Loans: Offer low down payment options for green card and work visa holders.
  • Foreign National Loans: Designed specifically for non-residents and typically require higher down payments and alternative credit verification.
  • Portfolio Loans: Offered by private lenders with flexible requirements but often come with higher interest rates.

Additional Considerations

  • Interest Rates: Rates may vary depending on residency status and credit profile.
  • Documentation: Proper documentation, including visa status, income verification, and bank statements, is essential.
  • Lender Selection: Working with a lender experienced in serving non-U.S. citizens can streamline the process.

Non-U.S. citizens can successfully achieve homeownership in the U.S. with the right mortgage strategy. By understanding your loan options, gathering the necessary documentation, and partnering with a knowledgeable lender, you can make the home-buying process smoother and more accessible.

If you need expert guidance on your mortgage options, reach out today!

Filed Under: Mortgage Tips Tagged With: Foreign National Loan, Home Ownership, Mortgage Loans

« Previous Page
Next Page »

Contact Coleen

Coleen Tebockhorst

Coleen TeBockhorst
coleen.tebockhorst@citywidehm.com

Senior Loan Officer

Call me! (612) 701-8512

NMLS #274205

Download My Mortgage eGuide today

CW Home Mortgage logo_White

Guaranteed Rate, Inc. DBA Citywide Home Mortgage

Categories

Our Location

9815 S. Monroe Street Suite 106-A
Sandy, UT 84070

Connect With Me

This site is not authorized by the New York State Department of Financial Services. No mortgage loan applications for properties located in New York will be accepted through this site. Operating in the state of California as Guaranteed Rate, Inc. D/B/A Citywide Home Mortgage. If you are a California resident, please review our Privacy Policy to learn more about the categories and business purpose of personal information we may collect and your right to opt-out from the sale of personal information.

Applicant subject to credit and underwriting approval. Not all applicants will be approved for financing. Receipt of application does not represent an approval for financing or interest rate guarantee. Refinancing your mortgage may increase costs over the term of your loan. Restrictions may apply. All information provided in this publication is for informational and educational purposes only, and in no way is any of the content contained herein to be construed as financial, investment, or legal advice or instruction. Citywide Home Mortgage does not guarantee the quality, accuracy, completeness or timelines of the information in this publication. While efforts are made to verify the information provided, the information should not be assumed to be error-free. Some information in the publication may have been provided by third parties and has not necessarily been verified by Citywide Home Mortgage. Citywide Home Mortgage, its affiliates and subsidiaries do not assume any liability for the information contained herein, be it direct, indirect, consequential, special, or exemplary, or other damages whatsoever and howsoever caused, arising out of or in connection with the use of this publication or in reliance on the information, including any personal or pecuniary loss, whether the action is in contract, tort (including negligence) or other tortious action.

Coleen TeBockhorst NMLS ID: 274205 Copyright © 1998-2025 Guaranteed Rate, Inc. D/B/A Citywide Home Mortgage. All rights reserved.

For licensing information, go to: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org.

NMLS License #2611 – 3940 N Ravenswood Chicago, IL 60613. (866) 508-5515. Equal Housing Lender.

Licensing | Privacy | Terms of Use

Copyright © 2025 · Powered by MySMARTblog

Copyright © 2025 · Genesis Sample Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in