Relocating to the U.S. for Work? You Can Still Own a Home
Being transferred to the United States through your employer—whether on an L1, H1B, O1, or E2 visa—often brings a whirlwind of logistics, decisions, and financial considerations. One of the biggest: where to live. Many relocating professionals assume that renting is the only option during a temporary assignment. But that’s no longer the case.
In fact, non-U.S. citizens on temporary work assignments can qualify for a U.S. mortgage and buy a home to live in for the duration of their assignment. This approach offers stability, equity growth, and in many cases, financial savings compared to long-term renting.
Here’s what you need to know.
Who Qualifies for a U.S. Mortgage on Assignment?
If you are:
- A foreign national working in the U.S. on a valid temporary visa (L1, H1B, E2, O1, etc.)
- Employed by a multinational company with operations in the U.S.
- Planning to stay in the country for at least 2 to 5 years
- Earning income in USD or can verify your global salary
- Interested in personal-use housing, not investment property
Then you likely qualify for a specialized mortgage program that caters to expatriates and transferred employees.
Why Buy Instead of Rent During a Temporary Assignment?
- Stability: Avoid annual rent hikes and insecure lease renewals
- Equity Growth: Build financial value instead of spending on rent
- Tax Efficiency: Potential deductions on mortgage interest and property taxes
- Comfort and Control: Customize your living space without landlord restrictions
- Long-Term Value: Keep the property as a rental or second home after your assignment ends
In high-cost cities like New York, San Francisco, or Seattle, owning may be more affordable over 3–5 years than renting comparable homes.
What Mortgage Options Are Available?
1. Temporary Visa Home Loans
Many lenders now offer mortgage programs specifically designed for foreign nationals on:
- L1 and H1B visas
- E1/E2 treaty visas
- O1/O2 specialty visas
- Other long-stay employment-based visa types
These loans generally offer:
- 20 to 30% down payment
- Flexible documentation requirements
- Acceptance of both U.S. and international income
- Loan terms up to 30 years
- Eligibility based on visa duration and employer support
2. Foreign National Mortgages
If you’re not drawing a U.S. salary but still relocating for work, you may qualify for a foreign national mortgage, which uses:
- Proof of foreign income (bank statements, employer letters, contracts)
- No U.S. credit score requirement
- Down payments starting at 25%
- No need for U.S. tax returns
This option is common for executives or senior managers who continue to be paid in their home country during an international assignment.
Required Documents
Although documentation requirements vary by lender, you’ll typically need:
- Valid passport and visa documents
- Employment contract or assignment letter from your company
- Bank statements showing assets for down payment and reserves
- Recent pay stubs or foreign salary verification
- U.S. credit score (if applicable), or foreign credit reference
- U.S. address or intended property location
Many lenders accept documents in foreign currencies and languages, provided they are translated and verified.
Locations Popular With Relocating Professionals
| City | Industry Presence |
| New York, NY | Finance, law, consulting, tech |
| San Francisco, CA | Technology, venture capital, life sciences |
| Austin, TX | Startups, tech, semiconductors |
| Seattle, WA | E-commerce, cloud computing, aviation |
| Miami, FL | Latin American HQs, finance, global trade |
| Boston, MA | Education, pharma, healthcare |
These cities offer strong job markets, global corporate offices, and vibrant communities for expat families.
Can You Keep the Property After the Assignment Ends?
Yes. Many homeowners choose to convert their U.S. property into a long-term rental, vacation home, or even second residence after they return to their home country.
Some investors even use DSCR loans to refinance and repurpose the property as an income-generating asset later on.
Work With a Lender Who Understands Global Mobility
Traditional U.S. banks are often unfamiliar with international employment structures and non-resident underwriting. That’s why it’s essential to work with a specialist like America Mortgages, who provides:
- Mortgages to foreign nationals and visa holders
- Cross-border document processing
- Remote application and closing capabilities
- Personalized advice from experts in global mobility lending
Final Thoughts
If your company is relocating you to the United States, you don’t have to settle for rental housing. With the right mortgage solution, you can own a home, grow your wealth, and create a more stable living experience during your assignment.
📧 Questions about your mortgage options while on assignment?
Contact: [email protected]
Website: www.americamortgages.com
Speak to a U.S. Loan Expert 24 hours a day / 7 days a week: +1 845-583-0830
Need help getting started? Use their 24/7 online booking tool to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a licensed U.S. mortgage advisor. https://www.americamortgages.com/home-mortgage-for-foreign-national-form/
