Foreign National Mortgage Guide
Can Foreigners Get a Loan to Buy Property in the USA?
Yes — and it's more accessible than you think. Here's everything you need to know about qualifying for a US mortgage as a foreign national.
Talk to GessicaYou Don't Need to Be a US Citizen to Buy in Miami
Many international buyers assume they need a green card or US citizenship to obtain a mortgage in the United States. That's simply not true. Foreign nationals — including non-resident aliens, visa holders, and even buyers with no US credit history — can qualify for a home loan in Florida.
Miami is one of the most internationally active real estate markets in the world, and lenders here have developed specialized loan products specifically designed for foreign buyers. Gessica Sforza has guided dozens of European and Latin American clients through this exact process.
Who Qualifies?
You may be eligible for a foreign national mortgage if you are:
- A non-resident alien (no US visa required in many cases)
- A visa holder (B1/B2, E-2, L-1, H-1B, O-1, TN and others)
- A permanent resident (green card holder)
- A foreign investor purchasing as an LLC or corporation
- A buyer with no US credit history or Social Security Number
- A citizen of any country — including Italy, Spain, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, and more
Types of Loans Available
Foreign National Mortgage
Designed specifically for non-US residents. Typically requires 25–30% down payment, proof of income from your home country, and 12–24 months of bank statements. No US credit score needed.
DSCR Loan (Debt Service Coverage Ratio)
Ideal for investors. Qualification is based on the rental income the property generates — not your personal income. Perfect for buyers purchasing condos or apartments as investment properties.
Portfolio Loan
Offered by private lenders and community banks. More flexible underwriting criteria, often used for high-net-worth foreign buyers purchasing luxury properties.
ITIN Loan
For buyers who have a US Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) but no Social Security Number. Available to undocumented residents and certain visa holders.
Typical Requirements
What About FIRPTA?
FIRPTA (Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act) is a US tax law that applies when a foreign national sells US real estate. It requires the buyer to withhold 15% of the sale price and remit it to the IRS as a tax deposit.
This does not prevent you from buying — it's a tax consideration for when you eventually sell. With proper planning and a qualified tax advisor, FIRPTA can be managed efficiently. Gessica works with experienced real estate attorneys and CPAs who specialize in international transactions.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Foreign National Mortgage
Get Pre-Qualified
Contact a lender who specializes in foreign national loans. They will review your financial profile and tell you how much you can borrow.
Open a US Bank Account
Most lenders require funds to be transferred to a US bank account before closing. This also helps establish a US financial footprint.
Choose Your Property
Work with Gessica to find the right property — whether a primary residence, vacation home, or investment property in Miami.
Submit Your Application
Gather your documents: passport, bank statements, proof of income, and credit references. Your lender will guide you through the process.
Appraisal & Underwriting
The lender orders an appraisal of the property and reviews your full application. This typically takes 2–4 weeks.
Close & Get Your Keys
Closing can be done remotely via Power of Attorney if you cannot be present in Miami. Gessica coordinates the entire closing process.
Ready to Buy in Miami?
Gessica Sforza has helped buyers from Italy, Spain, Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, and beyond navigate the US mortgage process. Fluent in English, Spanish, and Italian — she's your trusted guide from first inquiry to closing day.