Yes. H1B visa status is not a disqualifier for conventional, FHA, or jumbo mortgages. Lenders care about your ability to repay — income, credit, and employment stability — not your visa type.
Can H1B holders get a mortgage in the US?
Yes. H1B visa status is not a disqualifier for conventional, FHA, or jumbo mortgages. Lenders care about your ability to repay — income, credit, and employment stability — not your visa type.
Core requirements for H1B mortgage (2026)
| Requirement | Standard | H1B-specific notes |
|---|---|---|
| Credit score | 620+ (conventional) | 680+ recommended for H1B |
| Down payment | 3-20% | 10-20% common for H1B lenders |
| Debt-to-income ratio | Under 43% | Under 36% preferred |
| Employment history | 2 years | Current H1B job counts; international work history accepted |
| Visa validity | N/A | Most lenders want 12+ months remaining on I-797 |
| Income documentation | W-2 + pay stubs | Also may need offer letter, employer letter confirming H1B sponsorship |
The I-797 timing trap
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Most lenders require your H1B petition (I-797) to have at least 12 months remaining at the time of application. If yours expires in 8 months, file the extension FIRST, then apply for the mortgage.
| I-797 remaining | Lender comfort |
|---|---|
| 24+ months | ✅ Excellent |
| 12-24 months | ✅ Good — most lenders approve |
| 6-12 months | ⚠️ Limited lenders, may need extension filed |
| Under 6 months | ❌ Very difficult — extension must be pending |
Documents required
Personal documents
- Last 2 years W-2
- Last 2 pay stubs
- Last 2 years tax returns (1040)
- Passport + H1B visa stamp
- I-797 approval notice (current + prior if renewed)
- Bank statements (last 3-6 months — for down payment source)
Employer documents (some lenders request)
- Employer letter confirming: job title, salary, H1B sponsorship intent
- Offer letter if recently started
Employment gap handling
If you had employment gaps due to H1B transfers, layoffs, or visa issues:
- Gaps under 30 days: usually ignored
- Gaps 1-6 months: explain with a letter, document new employer immediately
- Gaps over 6 months: some lenders require 12 months at current employer
H1B-specific mortgage lenders
| Lender | Notes |
|---|---|
| HSBC | Specializes in non-citizen mortgages. Good for H1B, L1, TN visa |
| Better Mortgage | Fully online. H1B-friendly process, competitive rates |
| Rocket Mortgage | Largest US lender. H1B approvals common |
| Citibank | Good for HNI H1B ($300K+ income) |
| SoFi | Tech worker focus. Good for recent H1B holders |
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