In short
Foreign national and ITIN loans let non-U.S. citizens and borrowers who use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number instead of a Social Security number finance real estate through specialized programs. They rely on alternative documentation like international credit and bank statements and typically require a larger down payment.
Reviewed by Christian Penner, NMLS #368289 · Last updated July 7, 2026
Can a foreign national or ITIN holder get a mortgage in the U.S.?
Yes. Foreign nationals without U.S. residency and borrowers who use an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number can finance real estate through specialized programs. These loans typically rely on alternative documentation, such as international credit references or bank statements, and often require a larger down payment. They're used to buy primary residences, second homes, and investment properties, depending on the borrower's status and the program.
Key takeaways
Being a non-citizen or lacking a Social Security number shouldn't lock you out of owning property here. Our team helps foreign nationals and ITIN borrowers across the communities we serve finance homes and investment properties with programs built for exactly this situation. We specialize in loans that are tough to close, and we shop a broad network of lenders to find the right structure for your situation.
Ownership Without a U.S. Passport
Many banks simply won't lend to a buyer who isn't a citizen or permanent resident, or who files taxes with an ITIN rather than a Social Security number. That leaves qualified, financially strong buyers with nowhere to turn. Specialized foreign national and ITIN programs exist precisely to fill that gap, and our team knows how to navigate them. Where other lenders stop, we keep working.
Two Related but Distinct Borrowers
- Foreign nationals — Non-U.S. citizens without residency status, often buying a second home or investment property. Qualifying frequently relies on international credit, foreign asset and income documentation, and a larger down payment
- ITIN borrowers — Individuals who live and work here and file taxes with an ITIN rather than an SSN, often buying a primary residence. Programs may use pay documentation, bank statements, and a documented rental or credit history
How Qualifying Works
Since a traditional U.S. credit score may not exist, these programs lean on alternative proof of stability:
- International credit reports or reference letters from foreign banks
- Bank statements showing consistent deposits and reserves
- Documentation of income from foreign or domestic sources
- A larger down payment that strengthens the file
What to Expect
Foreign national and ITIN loans generally ask for a larger down payment and more documentation than a standard loan, and pricing reflects the added underwriting. In exchange, they open the door to ownership that would otherwise be closed. We package your file to present your financial strength clearly to the right lender.
We Handle the Complexity
Gathering international documents, translating credit history, and matching your status to the right program takes experience. Our team does this work so you can focus on the property. Let's find the best path forward.
All program details and figures on this page are illustrative examples for general education only and are not an offer to lend. Program availability, pricing, and guidelines vary and are subject to change. Contact our team for current details specific to your situation.
Quick facts
- Loan type
- Foreign national / ITIN mortgage
- Citizenship required
- No
- SSN required
- No — ITIN accepted
- Qualifying documents
- International credit, bank statements, asset/income proof
- Occupancy
- Primary, second home, or investment
- Down payment
- Typically larger than standard loans — ask for current figures
Is this loan right for you?
Who it's for
- Non-U.S. citizens buying a second home or investment property here
- Borrowers who file taxes with an ITIN rather than an SSN
- Buyers without a traditional U.S. credit score
- International investors adding U.S. real estate to their portfolio
- Residents working here who want to buy a primary home with an ITIN
Who it may not fit
- Citizens or permanent residents who qualify on standard programs
- Buyers unable to document income, assets, or reserves through any accepted method
Pros and cons
Pros
- Opens U.S. property ownership to non-citizens and ITIN borrowers
- Uses international credit and alternative documentation to qualify
- Available for primary, second home, and investment properties
- Often allows closing in an LLC for investment purchases
- We handle the complexity of international and alternative documents
Trade-offs to weigh
- Typically requires a larger down payment than standard loans
- More documentation and specialized underwriting are involved
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Social Security number to get a mortgage?
No. ITIN loan programs are designed for borrowers who file taxes with an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number instead of an SSN. We'll match you with a lender active in this space.
I live abroad. Can I still buy property here?
Yes. Foreign national programs are built for non-resident buyers, commonly for second homes and investment properties. Qualifying typically uses international credit and asset documentation plus a larger down payment.
What if I don't have a U.S. credit score?
These programs use alternatives like international credit reports, letters from foreign banks, and bank statements showing consistent deposits and reserves. We'll help you assemble documentation the lender will accept.
How much down payment will I need?
Generally more than a standard loan, which helps offset the added underwriting. The exact amount depends on your status, documentation, and the program. Ask our team for the current figures for your situation.
Can I buy in the name of an LLC?
Often yes, especially for investment purchases. Many foreign national programs allow closing in a business entity. We'll confirm the options for the property and program you choose.
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Last updated July 7, 2026 · Reviewed by Christian Penner, NMLS #368289. This page is educational and not a commitment to lend; program details change — ask for current figures.