New to the U.S.

Residency

• Permanent residents (green card) qualify much like citizens
• Many work visa holders (such as H-1B or L-1) can use conventional or FHA loans with proof of continued employment
• Foreign nationals without U.S. residency use non-QM programs with larger down payments

Building credit fast

Open one or two cards, keep balances low and pay in full. Within 6 to 12 months most people have a usable score. Some programs also accept alternative credit such as rent, utilities and insurance payments.

Foreign income and assets

Money moved from abroad must be traced: statements from the foreign account, the transfer record and the U.S. deposit. Plan the transfer early, and keep in mind FBAR reporting for foreign accounts.

Reviewed by Mustafa Temiz, CPA, NMLS #2450795 · Updated November 2026