Understanding the citizenship and residency requirements for mortgage loans is critical for buyers who are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or non-permanent residents. Lenders follow agency and investor rules to determine eligibility based on legal status, documentation, and loan program type.

Who Is Eligible?

U.S. Citizens and Permanent Resident Aliens

  • Eligible for all agency loan programs, including FHA, VA, USDA, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac.
  • Must provide a valid Social Security Number (SSN) and government-issued photo ID.
  • A valid Green Card or Immigrant Visa is required for permanent resident verification.

Non-Permanent Resident Aliens

  • Eligible for Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and VA loans with valid SSN, state ID, and credit history.
  • USDA allows eligibility only for certain Employment Authorization Document (EAD) categories such as Refugee (A03), Asylee (A05), or Paroled in Public Interest (C11).
  • FHA does not permit non-permanent resident aliens to apply for FHA loans.
  • Must provide a valid Nonimmigrant Visa or unexpired EAD, along with recommended two years of U.S. residency history.

Ineligible Borrowers

  • Foreign nationals without lawful U.S. residency (unless using a specific non-QM product).
  • Borrowers with diplomatic immunity.
  • Applicants without a valid SSN (unless an ITIN is allowed by a specific product).

Special Visa and Program Considerations

DACA (C-33 EAD)

  • Eligible for Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, VA, and certain bond loans.
  • Not eligible for FHA or USDA financing.

Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI) Restrictions

  • Some PMI providers may not insure loans for certain visa types. Lenders must confirm PMI acceptance before approval.

Documenting Foreign Income and Assets

  • Income from foreign sources must be reported on U.S. tax returns.
  • All foreign documents must be translated into English.
  • Agencies require specific proof of income history—ranging from one to two years—depending on the program.

Key Takeaways

  • Citizenship and residency requirements for mortgage loans vary by loan program and visa status.
  • U.S. citizens and permanent residents have the widest eligibility.
  • Non-permanent residents may qualify under conventional and VA programs but face restrictions with FHA and USDA.
  • Documentation and visa type play a crucial role in approval.

North Star Mortgage Network specializes in helping borrowers understand and meet citizenship and residency requirements for mortgage loans. Whether you are a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or non-permanent resident, we guide you through every step of the process.

Your best interest is my principal concern.

Call Nathan Young at 904-613-7700 or visit www.nsmn.com to get started.

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