Visa Holders and Residents
A US mortgage on a work visa or green card
If you live in the United States on a valid visa or green card, you don't need the 30% down payment asked of a foreign national. You access essentially the same terms as a citizen.
Your visa is worth more than you think
There is a widespread misunderstanding among Latin Americans who moved to the United States: believing that not being citizens puts them in the foreign national bucket, with 30% down and higher rates. It doesn't. If you hold a valid visa —H-1B, L-1, E-2, O-1, TN— and a Social Security number, you qualify for the same conventional and FHA programs as a citizen.
In practice that means down payments from 3.5% to 5% instead of 30%, better rates and a far wider product range. Walking through the right door instead of the wrong one can be worth tens of thousands of dollars in cash at purchase.
Who is it for?
For those already living in the US who want to stop renting
Professionals on work visas
H-1B, L-1, O-1 and TN holders with US employment and credit history, even a short one.
E-2 entrepreneurs
Those who relocated on an investor visa and want to buy a home while the business runs.
Permanent residents
Green card holders, who access terms identical to a citizen's.
How we move forward
A standard process, with the advantage of your immigration status
Profile review
Visa, time in the country, income and US credit score.
Program selection
Conventional or FHA depending on available down payment, score and property type.
Pre-approval
With pay stubs, W-2s or returns and employment verification.
Appraisal and closing
Appraisal, final underwriting and signing.
Typical program terms
Common market ranges. Final terms depend on the case.
Term
15-30
Years, fixed payment
Financing
Up to 96.5%
Depending on program and profile
Down payment
From 3.5%
Far below foreign national
Amortization
Principal + interest
The debt drops every month
About these numbers
Results are illustrative estimates based on Florida market averages. They are not a credit offer, a pre-approval or a lending commitment. Final terms depend on the lender, the applicant's profile and the property.
Frequently asked questions
How long do I need to have been in the US?
There is no universal minimum, but employment history and some local credit help a lot. With two years of documented income the process is notably simpler; with less it is still possible depending on the program.
What if my visa expires soon?
Reasonable continuity of status is evaluated. A near-term expiration doesn't automatically disqualify you if a renewal is pending or you have a renewal history, but it should be planned for.
Does FHA work for a visa holder?
Yes, provided you have a valid Social Security number and reside in the country. FHA is the lowest down payment route and is meant for primary residences, not investment.
What if I don't have a credit score yet?
There are alternatives that build a profile from non-traditional history. Even so, starting to build local credit as soon as you arrive is the best use of time if you plan to buy.
Can I buy a rental on these terms?
Low down payment programs are meant for primary residences. For investment the down payment rises, but you still access better terms than a non-resident foreign national.
Let's find the program you qualify for
Tell me about your immigration and employment situation and I'll tell you what down payment you'd need.