Best Loans for International Investors in the US

ByCaesar Hours

Buying property or starting a business in the United States is a dream for many international investors. But one common challenge is financing. Can foreign nationals get a loan in the U.S.? The answer is yes. While it may take more planning and paperwork, there are several loan options available for non-U.S. citizens who want to invest in real estate or a company.

Best Loans for International Investors in the US
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In this article, we will explain the best loans for international investors in the US. We will use simple language, real examples, and include all the important terms you should know to help you succeed.

Can International Investors Get Loans in the US?

Yes, international investors can get loans in the US, even if they don’t have a Social Security Number or a green card. However, the process is different compared to loans for U.S. citizens or permanent residents. You may need a higher down payment, provide documents from your home country, and pay a higher interest rate.

That’s why many people decide to contact immigration law firms before they apply. A qualified immigration attorney can help you explore ways to get a green card, an E-2 Visa, or other types of residency permits that may make it easier to qualify for better financing options. Your immigration status can sometimes affect which loans are available to you.

Let’s look at the best loan types for foreign investors below.

1. Foreign National Mortgage Loans

Foreign national mortgage loans are one of the most common ways for international investors to buy property in the U.S. These loans are made specifically for people who are not U.S. citizens or residents.

Key Features:

  • You usually need a 30% to 40% down payment.
  • Interest rates are a little higher than normal U.S. mortgages.
  • You may not need a U.S. credit history.
  • Lenders may accept bank statements, credit reports, or income proof from your home country.

Example:

Let’s say you live in Mexico and want to buy a $500,000 apartment in Miami. A lender might ask for a $150,000 down payment and offer a loan for the remaining $350,000. You would need to show proof of income from Mexico and maybe a letter from your bank.

2. ITIN Loans

An ITIN loan is a mortgage or business loan available to people who do not have a Social Security Number but have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN). This number is given by the IRS to people who work or earn money in the U.S. and pay taxes.

Key Features:

  • Available to non-residents with an ITIN.
  • Often used to buy houses or start a small business.
  • Can build your credit history in the U.S.

Example:

You are from Brazil and living in the U.S. on a visa. You have an ITIN and pay taxes. A lender may give you a loan to buy a $300,000 property with a 25% down payment and proof of income.

3. DSCR Loans (Debt-Service Coverage Ratio)

A DSCR loan is made for real estate investors, especially those who want to rent out their property. These loans focus on how much income the property will make, not how much money you earn personally.

Key Features:

  • Great for rental property investments.
  • No personal income needed—only the rental income is reviewed.
  • Minimum DSCR of 1.0 or more is usually required.

Example:

You are from Canada and want to buy a property in Orlando to rent to tourists. The monthly mortgage is $2,000, and you expect to earn $2,500 from rent. That’s a DSCR of 1.25, which is good enough for many lenders.

4. Hard Money Loans

Hard money loans are short-term loans from private investors or companies. These are not traditional banks. They often focus on the value of the property, not your financial history.

Key Features:

  • Fast approval—sometimes in a few days.
  • High interest rates (8% to 15%).
  • Good for house flipping or short-term needs.
  • Flexible requirements.

Example:

A buyer from India wants to buy a home in California, renovate it, and sell it quickly. A hard money lender gives him $400,000 based on the future value of the house after repairs.

5. SBA Loans for Non-Citizens (If You Have a Business)

The Small Business Administration (SBA) in the U.S. offers loans to help small businesses grow. Some SBA loans are open to non-citizens, including green card holders and certain visa holders like E-2 or L-1.

Key Features:

  • Great for buying or expanding a business.
  • Low interest rates and long repayment terms.
  • Must meet legal residency status or visa requirements.

Example:

A woman from France with an E-2 Visa opens a bakery in New York. She applies for an SBA 7(a) loan to expand and buy new equipment. She qualifies because she has legal status and a business plan.

6. Portfolio Loans

Portfolio loans are made by lenders who keep the loan “in-house” instead of selling it to large banks. Because of this, they can be more flexible with rules.

Key Features:

  • Useful for non-traditional borrowers.
  • May accept foreign income and no U.S. credit.
  • Good for unique property types or investment deals.

Example:

A real estate investor from South Korea wants to buy multiple small homes in Texas. A portfolio lender reviews his case personally and approves a loan that a regular bank would not.

7. Builder and Developer Loans

If you want to build or develop property in the U.S., there are loans available to help you buy land and fund construction.

Key Features:

  • High down payment.
  • May need a U.S. partner or co-signer.
  • Often used for commercial projects.

Example:

An investor from the UAE partners with a U.S.-based developer to build a shopping plaza. A construction loan helps fund the project, and both parties share the profit.

What Do You Need to Qualify?

Here are some common things lenders look for when approving international investors:

  • Passport and visa (some accept only certain visa types)
  • Proof of income (from your home country or U.S. job)
  • Down payment (usually 25% or more)
  • Credit history (U.S. credit is helpful, but not always required)
  • Bank statements (to show savings or business income)

If you have these documents ready, it’s easier to apply and get approved.

Why the Right Loan Matters

Choosing the right loan as an international investor can make the difference between success and failure. A good loan helps you keep your payments low, protect your investment, and even build a strong financial reputation in the U.S.

Before you make a decision, it is smart to talk to a lender who has experience working with foreign nationals. You should also consider speaking to a financial advisor or immigration attorney—especially if your visa status or residency plan could affect your loan options. With the right help, you can find a financing solution that fits your goals and protects your future.

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