Mortgages for
New Americans
Whether you are a permanent resident with a green card, a non-permanent resident on a work visa, or a foreign national, Theós Financial has mortgage programs designed to help you buy a home in the United States.
Last updated: March 2026
You Do Not Need to Be
A Citizen to Buy a Home
One of the most common misconceptions about buying a home in the United States is that you need to be a US citizen. This is not true. Permanent residents, non-permanent residents, and even foreign nationals can qualify for mortgage loans in the United States.
In fact, most major loan programs — including FHA, conventional, and VA (for eligible non-citizen service members) — are available to non-citizens who have legal residency status. The requirements vary by program and residency type, but the opportunities are real and accessible.
At Theós Financial, we have extensive experience working with immigrant communities throughout the Santa Clarita Valley and Southern California. Our team understands the unique challenges that new residents face — from building credit history in a new country to navigating documentation requirements in a foreign language. We are here to help every step of the way.
Homeownership is one of the most powerful wealth-building tools available, and it is available to you regardless of your citizenship status. Let us show you how to get started.
Loan Options Based on
Your Residency Status
Your available loan programs depend on your immigration and residency status. Here is what is available for each category.
Permanent Residents (Green Card)
If you hold a green card (lawful permanent resident status), you have access to virtually every mortgage program available to US citizens. You are treated the same as a citizen for lending purposes.
- Conventional loans (3% down)
- FHA loans (3.5% down)
- VA loans (if eligible veteran)
- Jumbo loans
- All standard documentation
Non-Permanent Residents (Work Visa)
If you are in the US on a valid work visa (H-1B, L-1, E-2, O-1, TN, etc.), you can qualify for most conventional and FHA loan programs. Lenders will want to see a valid visa with sufficient remaining time and a history of renewal.
- Conventional loans available
- FHA loans available
- Valid visa documentation required
- Employment verification in the US
- Some lenders require 2+ years in US
Foreign Nationals
Even if you do not reside in the United States, some lenders offer foreign national mortgage programs. These typically require larger down payments and higher interest rates, but they provide a path to US property ownership for international buyers.
- Non-QM specialty programs
- Typically 25-30% down payment
- Foreign passport and visa
- Foreign income documentation accepted
- ITIN may be used instead of SSN
FHA Loans: The Best
Starting Point for New Residents
For many new US residents, an FHA loan is the best starting point for homeownership. FHA loans are government-backed mortgages insured by the Federal Housing Administration, and they are designed to be accessible to borrowers who may not qualify for conventional financing.
Here is why FHA loans are particularly well-suited for new residents:
- Low down payment: Just 3.5% down with a credit score of 580 or higher
- Flexible credit requirements: FHA accepts non-traditional credit histories, which is valuable for new residents who may not have an established US credit profile
- Gift funds allowed: Your entire down payment can come from a family member as a gift
- Available to permanent and non-permanent residents: Both green card holders and valid work visa holders can qualify
- No minimum time in the US: Unlike some conventional programs, FHA does not require a specific number of years of US residency
- Manual underwriting available: If your file does not fit neatly into automated underwriting, FHA allows manual review where a human underwriter considers your complete financial picture
Our team at Theós Financial has helped many new residents secure FHA financing and achieve their dream of homeownership in America. We understand the process inside and out and can guide you through every step.
What Documents
You Will Need
In addition to standard mortgage documentation, new US residents will need to provide residency-related documents.
Proof of Legal Residency
Green card (front and back), valid work visa, Employment Authorization Document (EAD), or other immigration documents proving your legal right to reside in the United States. Your documentation must be current and not expired.
Social Security Number or ITIN
A Social Security Number is preferred and required for most loan programs. If you do not have an SSN, an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) may be accepted by certain lenders, particularly for non-QM and foreign national programs.
US Employment & Income Verification
Paystubs, W-2s, and tax returns from your US employer. If you have been in the US for less than 2 years, some lenders will accept foreign income documentation to supplement your US income history. Your employment must be verified as active and ongoing.
US Credit History or Alternative Credit
If you have established US credit, your credit report will be pulled as normal. If you are new to the US and have no credit history, FHA and some conventional programs allow non-traditional credit — utility bills, cell phone bills, rental payments, and insurance payments can be used to establish creditworthiness.
US Bank Statements
Most recent 2 months of US bank statements showing your down payment and reserve funds. If transferring funds from a foreign account, you will need to document the source and provide wire transfer records.
How to Build US
Credit History
If you are new to the US and need to establish credit before applying for a mortgage, here are the best strategies.
Secured Credit Card
Open a secured credit card where your deposit becomes your credit limit. Use it for small purchases and pay the full balance every month. This establishes positive payment history and can build your credit score within 6 to 12 months.
Credit Builder Loans
Some banks and credit unions offer credit builder loans specifically designed for people with no credit history. You make monthly payments that are reported to credit bureaus, and you receive the loan amount at the end of the term.
Authorized User Status
If you have a family member or trusted friend with established US credit, ask to be added as an authorized user on their credit card. Their positive payment history can appear on your credit report, giving you an instant credit boost.
Welcome Home to
America
Theós Financial is proud to help new US residents achieve the American dream of homeownership. Contact us today for a free consultation about your mortgage options.