Mortgage Options for Immigrants

How Indian immigrants on H-1B and other visas can qualify for a U.S. mortgage to purchase a home.

Overview

A mortgage is a loan from a bank used to finance a home purchase. Multiple mortgage options are available to non-citizens living and working legally in the U.S., provided they meet standard credit and income requirements.

For Indians Moving From India

You cannot easily obtain a U.S. mortgage using Indian income or an Indian credit history. You must first establish a meaningful U.S. financial footprint — typically two years of U.S. tax returns, stable W-2 employment, and a strong U.S. credit score.

For Indians Already in the US

You have access to the same conventional loans as U.S. citizens, provided you meet the lender's credit and income requirements. Lenders will also verify your visa validity — many require that your visa is valid for at least three more years or will request an employer letter confirming sponsorship intent.

Key Information

Mortgage eligibility for immigrants depends heavily on visa validity. Lenders rigorously evaluate your Debt-to-Income (DTI) ratio. An approved I-140 can strengthen your application by demonstrating long-term employment intent even with an expiring visa.

Requirements

An SSN, at least 2 years of U.S. tax returns (W-2s), a strong U.S. credit history, a down payment, and proof of legal residency (I-797 approval notice, EAD card, or valid visa stamp).

Common Mistakes

Making large, unexplained cash deposits from India into your U.S. bank account in the months before applying for a mortgage. Lenders must document the source of all down payment funds, and large foreign transfers require extensive paper trails.

Practical Tips

Work with a mortgage broker or national bank that has specific experience with H-1B or L-1 visa holders. Inexperienced local lenders may unnecessarily deny your application simply because they do not understand how U.S. work visas operate.