How Foreigners Can Get a Home Loan in the U.S. ?

So, you’re not a U.S. citizen, but you’re dreaming of owning your first home in America? You’re not alone—and yes, it’s totally possible.

How Foreigners Can Get a Home Loan in the U.S.
Image by Satheesh Sankaran from Pixabay

Whether you’re a foreign investor, expat, international worker, or someone who just loves the idea of living stateside, getting a mortgage in the United States as a foreigner in 2025 is achievable—with the right steps and information.

Let’s break it down.


🌎 Can Foreigners Really Buy Homes in the U.S.?

Yes. 100%. The U.S. does not restrict foreigners from buying real estate. You don’t need a green card or U.S. citizenship to purchase property. But buying and financing are two different things.

The tricky part is getting a mortgage—especially without U.S. credit history, a Social Security Number (SSN), or local income.


💡 Key Terms You Should Know

Before diving in, get familiar with these mortgage-related terms in the U.S.:

  • Down Payment: The upfront cash you pay (usually 20–30% for foreigners).

  • LTV (Loan-to-Value): The loan amount vs. property value. Foreigners may be limited to 65–75% LTV.

  • DSCR Loan: Based on rental income—not personal income.

  • ITIN: An Individual Taxpayer Identification Number—useful if you don’t have an SSN.


📝 Step 1: Determine Your Residency Status

Your residency status affects the type of loan you can apply for:

Status Mortgage Access
U.S. Citizen Full access
Green Card Holder (Permanent Resident) Full access
Visa Holder (Non-Permanent Resident – e.g., H-1B, L-1, etc.) Most loan options available
Foreign National (No SSN or visa) Specialized foreign national loans

If you hold a valid visa, you can often apply for conventional loans. If you’re a non-resident foreign national, you’ll likely use international mortgage programs or private lenders.


🏦 Step 2: Choose the Right Type of Lender

You have two main options in 2025:

✅ 1. U.S. Banks and Credit Unions

Great if you have:

  • A visa or green card

  • U.S. income or bank accounts

  • U.S. credit score or ITIN

Some banks that work with foreign borrowers:

  • HSBC USA

  • Bank of America

  • TD Bank

  • Wells Fargo (some programs for international clients)

✅ 2. Foreign National Mortgage Lenders

Perfect if you have:

  • No SSN or U.S. credit history

  • Non-U.S. income

  • High down payment (30–50%)

Examples of lenders offering foreign national mortgages:

  • LendingOne

  • AmeriNational

  • FirstBank Florida

  • Global Mortgage Group


💰 Step 3: Get Your Finances in Order

Even without U.S. credit, you can still qualify by showing strong international finances.

What most lenders ask for:

  • Passport and visa (or ITIN if you have one)

  • Proof of income from your home country (bank statements, tax returns)

  • International credit report or bank reference letter

  • Asset documentation (savings, investments)

  • U.S. or foreign bank account

Down Payment:

Most lenders require at least 30% down for foreign nationals. Some may go lower if you have an established U.S. presence.


🧠 Step 4: Understand the Types of Loans Available

✅ 1. Foreign National Loans

  • No SSN or U.S. credit required

  • Up to 70% financing (30% down payment)

  • Usually offered by private lenders

  • Interest rates may be higher (6%–9%)

✅ 2. Conventional Loans (with SSN/ITIN)

  • Require good credit score (usually 680+)

  • 5%–20% down

  • Lower interest rates

  • Need U.S. job or income verification

✅ 3. FHA Loans (for certain visa holders)

  • As low as 3.5% down

  • Requires SSN and legal residency

  • Lower income thresholds

  • Best for first-time homebuyers with a U.S. job


📈 Step 5: Get Pre-Qualified or Pre-Approved

If you’re serious about buying, a pre-approval letter gives you power.

It shows sellers you:

  • Are financially serious

  • Can actually close the deal

  • Know your purchasing limits

What you’ll need:

  • 2+ years of income documentation

  • Proof of employment or self-employment

  • Bank statements

  • Proof of assets for down payment


🏠 Step 6: Start the Home Search

Now comes the fun part—house hunting!

Use U.S. real estate platforms:

  • Zillow

  • Realtor.com

  • Redfin

Or hire a local buyer’s agent. They understand the process and can guide you through:

  • Making offers

  • Inspections

  • Legal paperwork


⚖️ Step 7: Understand Legal and Tax Obligations

Buying property in the U.S. comes with certain legal rules—even for non-residents.

🧾 You may need to:

  • File U.S. tax returns on rental income (if renting it out)

  • Pay property taxes (usually 1%–2% of home value per year)

  • Work with a U.S. attorney for contracts and title work

Tip: Consult an international tax advisor to avoid double taxation.


🔒 Step 8: Prepare for Closing

Closing usually takes 30–60 days. You’ll need to:

  • Wire funds for down payment and closing costs

  • Review all legal documents (have a lawyer if needed)

  • Sign the mortgage contract and deed

Estimated Closing Costs for Foreign Buyers:

  • Loan origination fee: 1%–2%

  • Title insurance: $500–$1,500

  • Attorney fees: $500–$2,000

  • Prepaid taxes and insurance


🚀 Quick Tips for Success in 2025

  • Have a U.S.-based co-signer or joint applicant if possible

  • Open a U.S. bank account early to show financial ties

  • Get an ITIN if you’re not eligible for an SSN

  • Choose stable real estate markets with long-term value

  • Be ready to show proof of funds and legal source of income


📊 Best U.S. Cities for Foreign First-Time Buyers in 2025

City Why It’s Great
Orlando, FL Strong rental market + foreign buyer-friendly
Austin, TX Tech jobs + growing value
Phoenix, AZ Affordable homes + easy process
Miami, FL Lots of foreigner-friendly lenders
Charlotte, NC Growing economy + lower costs

🧠 FAQs About Foreigners Getting U.S. Home Loans

❓ Can I buy a home in the U.S. with no visa or SSN?

Yes, but you’ll likely need to go through a foreign national loan program, which requires a higher down payment and more documentation.

❓ Can I get a mortgage with income from outside the U.S.?

Yes, many lenders accept foreign income, especially if it’s well-documented and comes from stable sources.

❓ Is it better to buy in cash as a foreigner?

Cash simplifies things—but if you want to leverage your investment or keep liquidity, mortgages can still work well with proper planning.


🏁 Final Thoughts

Buying your first home in the U.S. as a foreigner in 2025 might seem complicated, but it’s more doable than ever. With specialized loans, international lending programs, and the right support, you can own a piece of America—even without a green card or U.S. credit history.

Do your research, partner with the right professionals, and go step by step. Your dream of American homeownership is closer than you think.