Quick answer
A foreign national mortgage is a non-QM loan for buyers who do not live in the U.S. and do not have U.S. credit. Lenders typically verify identity with a passport (and visa if applicable), use international credit references or a foreign credit report, and require documented assets and a larger down payment, often around 25% to 40%. Most programs are for second homes or investment properties.
Who foreign national loans are for
Foreign national programs are built for buyers who live outside the U.S., do not have a U.S. credit history, and want to own property here, most often a vacation home or a rental. Because the lender cannot rely on U.S. credit reports or tax returns, the loan leans on your assets, your down payment and the property itself.
Some foreign national programs also offer DSCR-style qualifying for rentals, where the rent covers the payment and no income documentation is needed.
Down payment and payment calculator
This uses an example rate. Taxes, insurance and any HOA are extra.
Get a Foreign National Quote →Example rate only, 30-year fixed principal and interest. Not a loan offer; all loans subject to credit approval and underwriting.
Typical requirements
| Item | What lenders typically look for |
|---|---|
| Identification | Valid passport; visa if applicable |
| Credit | International credit report or reference letters from banks or creditors |
| Assets | Down payment, closing costs and reserves, often required in a U.S. account before closing |
| Down payment | Often 25%–40% |
| Property use | Usually second home or investment |
Typical ranges, not a quote. Terms and eligibility vary by lender and country of residence.
How the process works
- Pre-qualification based on your passport, assets and the type of property.
- Move funds for the down payment, closing costs and reserves into a U.S. account, if the program requires it.
- Appraisal and underwriting. Documents in other languages may need certified translation.
- Closing, which can sometimes be done through a U.S. consulate or with a power of attorney.
FAQ
Can a non-U.S. resident get a mortgage in the U.S.?
Yes. Foreign national mortgage programs finance U.S. property for buyers who live abroad, usually for a second home or investment property.
How much down payment does a foreign national need?
Often 25% to 40%, depending on the property, loan size and program.
Do foreign nationals need U.S. credit?
No. Lenders typically use international credit reports or reference letters instead.
Can a foreign national buy a rental with a DSCR loan?
Some programs allow DSCR-style qualifying for foreign nationals, where the rent covers the payment.
Part of the self-employed and non-QM mortgage guide: bank statement, P&L, 1099, asset depletion, DSCR, WVOE, ITIN and foreign national loans.
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