Learn · loan programs
ITIN and foreign national loans
Options for borrowers without a Social Security number or who live outside the U.S.
What it is
Fannie Mae buys loans made to non-U.S. citizens who are lawful permanent or non-permanent residents on the same terms as U.S. citizens, with the lender verifying legal presence. Borrowers who use an ITIN, or foreign nationals who live abroad, may look at non-agency loans whose terms are set by each lender.
Who it fits
- Lawful permanent and non-permanent residents (agency loans may work)
- ITIN holders and foreign nationals (non-agency loans)
How it works
- The lender verifies identity, legal presence where required, income and assets.
- Down payment, credit and pricing for ITIN and foreign national loans vary by lender.
Benefits
- A path to ownership when standard documentation doesn’t fit
- Some lenders accept foreign income or credit references
Tradeoffs
- Larger down payments and reserves are common
- Pricing is usually higher than agency loans
Typical documents
- Passport and visa or residency documents
- ITIN letter (if applicable)
- Income and asset documents (translated if needed)
Your lender may ask for more or less. Full list: 1-page document checklist (PDF).
Common myth: “You must be a U.S. citizen to get a mortgage.” Not true: Fannie Mae’s guide covers lawful permanent and non-permanent residents.
More on self-employed, investor and second-look loans.
Last checked October 17, 2026. Sources: Fannie Mae Selling Guide B2-2-02, non-U.S. citizen borrowers · CFPB, What is a Qualified Mortgage?
Availability depends on the lender and program funding; ask me which ones I can use for your loan.
Ask whether this fits your situation
This page is general education. Call or text and I’ll tell you whether this loan type is something I can help with for your scenario.