Most-asked: no SSN or US credit needed · 25–40% down · rates ~1–2% over conventional · DSCR (rent) or full-doc (foreign income) · buy from abroad · certified translations required. Details below.
The basics & no-SSN
Can a foreign national get a mortgage in California?
Yes — non-QM foreign national loans, no SSN, US credit, or green card.
Do I need a Social Security number?
No — passport (+ ITIN if held) verifies identity.
Do I need US credit?
No — international credit report, bank reference letters, or DSCR on rent.
Is this a real, regulated loan?
Yes — a well-established non-QM product with standard appraisal & underwriting.
Do I need a US address?
No — many buyers live entirely abroad.
Down payment, rates & paths
How much down payment?
25–40% (~30% common); more down = better rate. Requirements →
What are the rates?
~1–2% over conventional. Rates →
DSCR vs full-doc?
DSCR = property rent, no personal income; full-doc = foreign income + assets.
Which path prices better?
Depends — strong full-doc profiles can beat DSCR; DSCR is simplest.
Are reserves required?
Yes — documented reserves, varying by lender & loan size.
Ownership & documents
Can I hold it in an LLC?
Yes — common for investment; or hold personally.
Do documents need translation?
Yes — certified translation for any non-English document.
What proves my funds?
Documented source of funds for down payment + reserves.
What proves income (full-doc)?
12–24 mo foreign bank statements + foreign income docs.
What proves credit?
International credit report or foreign bank reference letters.
Buying, closing & refinance
Can I buy a primary residence?
Some programs — often visa holders in the US.
Do I need to be in the US?
No — sign remotely w/ a notary; US bank account for closing.
How long does closing take?
~21–45 days with complete, translated docs.
Which countries qualify?
Most — subject to lender & compliance rules.
Can I refinance later?
Often — into better terms as you build a US footprint.
Do you serve all of California?
Yes — all 58 counties, from Newport Beach & Marina del Rey.
Reviewed by the licensing team at Save Financial, a California-licensed mortgage brokerage (NMLS #377740, DRE #01875766) founded in 2009 and serving all 58 counties. This page does not provide legal, tax, or immigration advice.