How to Get a Mortgage in Georgia as a Non-U.S. Citizen (2025)

If you’re navigating the Atlanta, Georgia real estate market as a non-U.S. citizen, you have viable paths to securing a mortgage in 2025. It’s certainly within reach with the right steps—here’s how to make it happen.

1. Understand Your Residency Status

Your visa or residency status determines which loan types are available:

2. Loan Types and What to Expect

A. Conventional & Government-Backed Loans (Fannie Mae / Freddie Mac / FHA / USDA / VA)

• Green card or work visa holders gain access to these loans with similar terms as U.S. citizens, subject to documentation and income verification.
  
  
• FHA Loans require SSN/EAD for non-permanent residents and primary residence only.

B. Foreign National Loans (Non-resident, Investment-Only)

• Designed for foreign investors residing abroad; typically require:
  
  
  • No U.S. income or credit
    
    
  • Higher down payment (around 30%),
    
    
  • Property must generate sufficient income (DSCR).
    
    
• Offered by niche lenders and for investment properties only.

C. ITIN Loans (Ideal for Georgia)

• Ideal for non-U.S. citizens without SSNs but with valid ITINs.
  
  
• Requirements are flexible—bank statements and tax returns can substitute for credit history. Some accept scores ≥ 620.
  
  
• Perfect for owner-occupied properties in Georgia.

3. What Lenders Will Expect

• Documentation: SSN, ITIN, visa/EAD, green card, passport, foreign credit reports, letters, and translated tax/bank records.
  
  
• Stronger Down Payments: Especially for foreign nationals, typically 20–30% down.
  
  
• Alternative Credit Evaluation: For those without U.S. credit, lenders may use rental, utility, or international credit data. The introduction of VantageScore 4.0 in late 2024–mid 2025 helps borrowers with limited credit history.

4. Steps to Getting Started

1. Clarify your eligibility by identifying your visa or residency category.
   
   
2. Select the right lender—look for those experienced with non-citizen mortgages; international/global banks often offer smoother processes.
   
   
3. Compile documentation: visa/SSN/ITIN, tax returns (U.S. and foreign), pay stubs, translated bank statements, credit references.
   
   
4. Budget carefully for higher down payments, closing costs, taxes, and possible withholding if you’re foreign.
   
   
5. Consider working with local Atlanta lenders specializing in ITIN or foreign national programs. Many are attuned to regional market nuances.
   
   
6. Get pre-approved and lock in rates, then you’ll have more confidence to shop in Atlanta’s dynamic market.

5. Why It Matters in Atlanta’s Market

Atlanta is increasingly attractive to international buyers, especially in suburbs like Gwinnett County and North Fulton, where cultural networks can help streamline the process. Foreign National loans and ITIN loans help bridge accessibility gaps, creating paths to homeownership or investment even without U.S. residency.

6. Final Takeaways

• Yes, you can get a mortgage in Georgia as a non-U.S. citizen in 2025.
  
  
• Green card holders and visa holders have access to mainstream mortgage options.
  
  
• Foreign nationals abroad should explore specialized DSCR and foreign national loan programs.
  
  
• If you don’t have an SSN, ITIN loans are often your best path forward in Georgia.
  
  
• Be prepared for extra documentation, higher down payments, and alternate credit assessments.
  
  
• Work with experienced local lenders in Atlanta to improve your odds and streamline the process.

Ready to Explore?

Whether you’re aiming to buy your first home or invest in Atlanta real estate, you’ve now got a clear roadmap:

• Identify your status → Choose the right loan path → Gather solid documentation → Connect with the right lender → Get pre-approved → Make your move.

Feel free to reach out to the TJS Team led by Tina Jingru Sui if you want help narrowing down lenders, understanding regional loan programs, or making sense of your options. You’re one step closer to making Atlanta home.