If you’re living in the US on a work permit, also known as an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), and dreaming of owning a home, it is certainly possible. Many EAD holders successfully secure mortgages and purchase homes every year. The process is smoother than you might think if you meet some basic requirements and understand your options.
Having worked with numerous clients on EADs over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how easily achievable this goal is. With the proper guidance and preparation, you can confidently navigate the home loan process and make your dream of homeownership a reality.
This guide will walk you through the most suitable mortgage options available to EAD holders in the US. But first, for those who may not be familiar with it, let’s take a quick look at what an Employment Authorization Card is and why it plays a key role in qualifying for a home loan.
Key Takeawyas:
1. Individuals with a valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) can apply for a home loan in the US, similar to US citizens and green card holders.
2. To qualify, applicants must meet standard financial requirements, such as steady income, employment verification, and tax returns.
3. An EAD allows non-permanent residents to buy homes without needing a green card or US citizenship.
4. Purchasing a home on an EAD provides long-term financial and residential stability in the US.
Table of Contents
What Is the Employment Authorization Document (EAD)?
An Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is an official card issued by the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). It grants certain non-citizens the legal right to work in the United States and allows eligible individuals to seek employment in most professional fields.
The card is typically valid for up to two years and can be renewed as long as you continue to be eligible. Not all non-citizens require an EAD; some visa holders may already have work authorization, while others must apply for an EAD separately.
Common categories eligible for an EAD include:
- Asylum seekers and refugees
- F-1 and M-1 students on practical training (OPT/CPT)
- DACA recipients
- Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders
- Green card applicants (adjustment of status)
- Spouses of certain visa holders (e.g., H-4, L-2, E-2)
- Fiancé(e)s and dependents of U.S. citizens or diplomats
Source: www.uscis.gov
To learn more about EADs, refer to “How to Get an EAD (Employment Authorization Document)—Complete Guide.”
Can Visa Holders Get EAD Mortgages in the US?
Navigating the US mortgage system as a visa holder can feel overwhelming, but it’s not impossible. With the correct documentation and guidance, many foreign nationals and visa holders can secure home loans, even without a long-standing US credit history.
To qualify for a mortgage with an EAD, you must meet the exact basic requirements as a US citizen or permanent resident. This includes having a steady income and the financial ability to handle the monthly mortgage payments, including principal and interest.
At HomeAbroad, we specialize in providing US mortgages for foreign nationals, expats, and newcomers. With hands-on experience helping clients in similar situations, I can confidently say that homeownership is within reach if you have a valid visa or an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
Why Do You Need an EAD to Apply for a Mortgage?
Not all visa types automatically authorize you to work in the US. Some include built-in work privileges, while others require a separate Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Lenders must verify that you can legally earn income before approving a mortgage. That’s where an EAD becomes essential.
For example, if you’re in the US on an F-1 student visa, you likely won’t qualify for a mortgage unless you have an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) through Optional Practical Training (OPT). However, those on H-1B visas or Green Cards often have built-in eligibility. Lenders view the EAD as proof of financial stability and a reliable repayment source, which significantly improves your approval chances.
Having worked with clients in these scenarios, I’ve seen how an EAD often differentiates between a denied application and a successful path to homeownership.
What are the Various Types of EAD Mortgages?
Visa holders with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) can qualify for US mortgages. However, the type of mortgage available will depend on your residency status, credit profile, and income documentation. Here’s how it typically breaks down:
1. Mortgages for Work Visa Holders (Non-Permanent Residents)
If you’re a non-permanent resident with a valid work visa or an EAD, you’re eligible for conventional loan programs, including Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and FHA loans. You’ll need:
- A valid Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or visa with work authorization
- A Social Security Number
- Proof that you are authorized to work in the US for at least two years
Accepted visa types typically include:
- H Series (e.g., H-1B, H-1C)
- L, O, and E Series
- G Series
- NATO Visas
- TN Visa (Canadian and Mexican nationals under USMCA)
To qualify for these loans, you require a solid credit score. However, you’re not out of options if you lack a US credit history. That brings us to the next point.
2. EAD Mortgages with No US Credit History
It’s common for newcomers to have little or no US credit. That shouldn’t stop you from buying a home. Here’s where HomeAbroad’s expertise steps in.
HomeAbroad specializes in foreign national mortgage programs that allow borrowers to qualify using:
- International credit reports
- Foreign bank statements
- Alternate documentation
Having personally worked with clients in their first few months in the US without little to no US credit history, I’ve helped them secure mortgages using foreign income and credit references. With the right lender, it’s not only possible but surprisingly streamlined.
3. Green Card Mortgages (Permanent Resident Aliens)
If you’re a Green Card holder (Form I-551), you can expect a process that is nearly identical to that of US citizens. You’ll need to show:
- Your valid Green Card
- A Social Security Number
- Proof of income and credit history
Green Card holders typically qualify for all conventional mortgage products, including FHA and VA loans, as long as they meet the military service criteria.
4. EAD Mortgages with Established US Credit
If you’ve lived in the US for a while and built credit, your options expand significantly. With a good credit score and solid employment, you can qualify for:
- Conventional loans (Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac)
- FHA loans
- Jumbo loans
- First-time buyer programs
These are the various types of EAD mortgages available in the US. Clients with this profile often secure competitive rates and flexible terms.
Can Visa Holders with Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) Buy Homes in the US?
Yes, visa holders with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) can buy homes in the US. No legal restrictions prevent EAD holders from purchasing property, whether a primary residence or an investment property. However, most lenders prefer to finance homes that will be used as primary residences.
- Single-family homes
- Condos
- Townhomes
- Co-ops (where permitted)
The lender will also assess your ability to cover:
- Monthly mortgage payments
- Down payment
- Closing costs
Whether you’re here on an H-1B, an F-1 with OPT, or a Green Card, your path to US homeownership starts with knowing your mortgage options. Your EAD or work visa isn’t a barrier but a bridge.
HomeAbroad has helped hundreds of clients with unique immigration and credit backgrounds become proud US homeowners. If you’re unsure, know that you’re not alone. With the proper guidance, you’re closer to owning a home than you think.
Qualifications for Getting a Mortgage With an EAD
To qualify for most home loan programs with an EAD:
- Employment History: A two-year employment history in the US is usually required. If you’ve worked for a US-based company abroad, that experience may still be counted toward your employment record.
- Credit History: A US credit history of at least two years is helpful, especially for federally backed loans. However, in some cases, lenders may consider your foreign credit history, particularly if you’re from a country with credit reporting practices similar to those in the US.
- Visa Status: Non-permanent residents must provide proof of a valid visa and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Commonly accepted visa categories include H-1 B, L-1, O-1, and others. The type of visa and its validity period may affect eligibility, depending on the lender.
- Co-signer Option: If you are a spouse of an H1B visa holder or an F1/M1 student who recently received an EAD, you may still qualify for a mortgage with a co-signer who has an established US credit and work history.
Also Read: H1B Visa: Buying a House and Obtaining a Mortgage Home Loan
Understanding these qualification criteria is the first step in securing a mortgage with an EAD. The next step is selecting the right mortgage plan that fits your financial goals and long-term housing needs quickly and conveniently.
Types of Mortgages You Can Get With an EAD
Getting a home loan as a non-US citizen is entirely possible with the right mortgage program, especially if you have an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN).
HomeAbroad specializes in making the process accessible and flexible for foreign nationals by offering mortgage options that don’t necessarily require a US credit score or traditional income documentation.
One such example is the DSCR loan, which focuses on the income potential of an investment property rather than your personal financial history. Let’s look at the various loan types you can get approved for with an EAD number or ITIN.
Foreign National Mortgage:
Both government and private lenders offer this loan. The difference between the two is that government-backed loans scrutinize your credit history, employment history, pay stubs, tax returns, and other financial information.
At the same time, private lenders are open to more flexible working methods and often waive stringent scrutiny, making the process more convenient and faster. This is similar to the one at HomeAbroad, where we primarily consider your ability to repay a loan by evaluating your foreign credit score, bank statements, or other alternatives.
Requirements for Foreign National Mortgages at HomeAbroad:
- Valid Identification: Passport and visa or other legal residency proof
- Income Verification: Bank statements or foreign income records
- Credit History: No US credit score is required
- Down Payment: Typically 20%–25%
- Property Use: Can be primary, secondary, or investment property
Learn more: Guide to Foreign National Mortgage Loans with No US Credit.
DSCR Loans:
If you’re looking to buy an investment property through a mortgage with an EAD, DSCR is an excellent option. DSCR stands for Debt Service Coverage Ratio, which analyzes the property’s rental income to determine its ability to cover loan payments.
The DSCR must typically be 1.0 or higher, meaning the rental income should cover or exceed the mortgage expenses. However, even with a DSCR ratio of 0.75, you can still secure a DSCR loan with HomeAbroad, provided you must pay a larger down payment to mitigate the additional risk involved. This loan doesn’t require personal income verification or a US credit score, which makes it ideal for foreign investors.
Requirements:
- Valid Identification: A passport and visa, or an EAD.
- Property Income: A DSCR of 1.0 or higher is preferred for optimal terms. However, loans are available for properties with a DSCR of less than 1.0, although this may require a higher down payment.
- Credit Score: No US credit history is necessary for foreign investors.
- Down Payment: Typically, 20% for domestic and 25% for foreign investors
- Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratio: Up to 80% for purchase and rate/term refinance; up to 75% for cash-out refinance for domestic investors. For foreign investors, a rate of up to 75% is charged for purchase and rate/term refinances, and up to 70% is charged for cash-out refinances.
- Cash Reserves: Two months for domestic investors and six months for foreign investors.
- Property Use: Investment properties only (residential and commercial).
Learn more: DSCR Loan Program – HomeAbroad.
Conventional Loans:
Conventional loans are not backed by the government but by organizations like Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac. They suit EAD holders who have strong credit, a reliable income, and a low debt-to-income ratio. While stricter than FHA, they offer better rates and fewer mortgage insurance requirements.
Requirements:
- Residency Status: Valid EAD and Social Security Number
- Credit Score: Minimum 620
- Down Payment: Minimum 3%, can go up depending on several factors
- Income Verification: Pay stubs, W-2s, bank statements
- Property Use: Primary residence, second home, or investment
- DTI Ratio: Usually 43%
No matter which mortgage program you choose, comparing rates, terms, and qualification requirements is essential. However, HomeAbroad makes it easier for non-US citizens to achieve homeownership without needing a US credit score or long credit history. The next step in your journey is to gather the necessary documents and get prequalified.
Documents Required to Get an EAD Mortgage
The following documents are required for getting a mortgage with an employment authorization document.
•Signed copy of Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
This document, issued by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), verifies your eligibility to work in the United States.
•Proof of Income
This includes documents such as pay stubs and bank statements that show regular deposits. The lender will scrutinize these to verify your ability to repay this loan.
•Proof of Residency
You should have documents proving that you have lived in the United States for at least two years.
•Employment Verification
The lender will contact your employer to confirm your work status and income.
• Driver’s License with Photocopy
Your driver’s license will be used to verify your identity.
•Social Security Number
You must provide your Social Security number so the lender can conduct a credit check.
•Credit Report
Your credit report will be used to assess your creditworthiness and determine the interest rate you will receive.
•Two years of US Tax Returns
Your lender will review your tax returns to verify that you have been filing taxes in the US for at least two years.
Once all the above documents are ready, you can proceed with the mortgage application process. The lenders will evaluate all these documents and assess your creditworthiness before approving or denying your loan request. If approved, you must complete the associated paperwork and eventually provide the down payment and closing costs.
Step-By-Step Guide to Getting an EAD Mortgage
Step 1: Find the Right Property
Start by identifying a property that suits your needs. You can seek help from a real estate agent. HomeAbroad connects you with CIPS-certified agents who specialize in working with non-permanent residents.
Step 2: Calculate Your Budget
Determine how much you can afford, taking into account the down payment (typically 20%), closing costs, potential repairs, insurance, interest, and monthly payments.
Step 3: Research Mortgage Options
Compare loan options based on interest rates, terms, and fees to find the best fit. Choose the one that aligns best with your financial goals and investment plans.
Step 4: Choose a Reputable Lender
Look for lenders who offer mortgage programs for EAD holders. Check reviews and ensure they are experienced with non-permanent resident loans.
Step 5: Gather Required Documents
Prepare all necessary paperwork, including your EAD card, proof of income, residency, employment verification, credit report, Social Security number (SSN), ID, and two years of US tax returns.
Step 6: Finalize the Loan
Submit your documents. Once verified, the lender will assess your creditworthiness and approve your loan. You’ll then proceed with closing steps, such as the home inspection, underwriting, and final paperwork.
Read More: How can foreigners buy property in the USA – A Complete Guide
Get a Home Loan on an EAD with HomeAbroad
Securing a mortgage with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) is possible and within reach with the proper guidance and support. By meeting the basic requirements like proof of income, residency, and a solid employment history, you can qualify for a home loan just like any permanent resident or citizen.
HomeAbroad makes this process easier by connecting EAD holders with lenders who understand the unique needs of non-permanent residents. Whether new to the US or building your financial foundation, HomeAbroad helps you navigate every step from choosing the right loan option to closing on your dream home.
With access to tailored foreign national mortgage programs, a network of expert real estate agents, and end-to-end support, HomeAbroad is your trusted partner in turning EAD status into homeownership.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a mortgage with an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) instead of a Social Security Number?
Do I need to be a permanent resident to get an EAD mortgage?
Does employment status affect an EAD mortgage application?
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