Securing a mortgage in the US is an ambitious goal for many Brazilians. I have seen firsthand how it opens doors to investment, personal stability, and connection to new opportunities. Yet the path isn’t always simple. In 2026, it’s more possible than ever, but clarity about options and steps is truly valuable. In this guide, I will focus on requirements, available programs, regulations, and how support from experienced brokers like Heart Mortgage can make the difference for foreign buyers, including those who might not fit traditional profiles.
Understanding mortgage categories for Brazilians
When a Brazilian nonresident looks to finance a property in the US, there are four main mortgage paths, each with its own rules:
- Conventional home loans backed by government-sponsored enterprises, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac
- Non-permanent resident loans
- ITIN-based mortgages
- Foreign national loan programs
Let me break down these options with specific requirements and their real-world impact.
Conventional loans: Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac
US government-sponsored enterprises Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac set the standard for conventional home loans. Their programs, however, prioritize borrowers with lawful US presence and documentation. FHA guidelines stemming from the Dodd-Frank Act and qualified mortgage rules require most applicants to have:
- Valid Social Security Number (SSN)
- Lawful permanent resident or non-permanent resident status with acceptable visa
- US credit history (often 2+ years)
- Proof of income and US tax filings
Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac rarely purchase mortgages for true foreign nationals without lawful presence.
Some Brazilian citizens living in the US with proper visas can qualify. But for most, this is not the direct path. For a deeper look at how these programs work, Heart Mortgage covers it in its overview of conventional mortgages.
Non-permanent resident loans
Borrowers with valid work visas (like H-1B, L-1, or certain investor visas) may fit here. These mortgage products function much like conventional loans but require visa documentation. Borrowers still need to prove US-based income and file tax returns. If you have established records in the US, your profile could fit these requirements. Most Brazilian nonresidents who live outside the US, however, are not eligible for this track.
ITIN-based mortgages
For people working or earning income in the US without an SSN, but who have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), another route may be open. These home loans are not backed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac and follow a different set of guidelines. Lenders offering ITIN programs ask for several years of tax returns, consistent income, a larger down payment, and alternative credit documentation. My research shows that Brazilian residents who earn US income and pay US taxes sometimes find this is their only path to approval. For a granular explanation, see Heart Mortgage's guide to ITIN mortgages.
Foreign national mortgage programs
This is the true “nonresident” route. These mortgages are designed for non-US citizens living outside America, investing in properties for vacation, rental, or second-home use. Foreign national loan programs stand apart in the marketplace. They do not fall under Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac. Instead, they are usually offered through private lenders and classified as “non-QM” (non-qualified mortgage) products, meaning they don’t have to meet the federal standards that protect borrowers in standard consumer transactions.
No US social security number or residency required- 20–35% minimum down payment (sometimes more for riskier profiles)
- International credit, bank, and income documentation
- Property usually must be for investment or second home, not primary residence
These loans require significant documentation and larger upfront payment, but they are often the most accessible way for Brazilians abroad to own property in the States. For all the specifics, consult Heart Mortgage's foreign national mortgage guide, which lays out the process in more depth.
What lenders look for: Main qualification factors
When I talk with clients, the same questions arise: How much do I need to put down? What documents are required? Here is what top lenders and brokers will typically request in 2026 for a US mortgage for Brazilian investors and homebuyers:
- Valid passport (and visa, if applicable, for some programs)
- Up-to-date international or US credit documentation (credit reports and/or bank references)
- Proof of income: business, employment contracts, tax records, bank statements
- Source of down payment and proof of assets
- Property purchase agreement or intent
Be ready to submit documents in both original language and certified translations.
Most foreign national loans ask for 25% to 35% as a down payment in 2026. This helps lower risk for lenders. Credit expectations are flexible but having an international report showing on-time payments and financial stability will support your file strongly. Some lenders accept alternative sources such as bank reference letters and statements. For more on documentation and step-by-step walkthroughs, see the article on steps in the US mortgage process.
Regulatory standards and compliance
The mortgage world has grown more transparent and regulated in recent years. After the 2008 crisis, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) strengthened oversight. Non-US citizens and foreign nationals are protected by rules on disclosures, fair lending, data security, and “ability to repay” laws (according to FHFA announcements).
However, most foreign national mortgage loans are considered non-QM and are not subject to some borrower protections and rate limits of Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac products. This is why having an experienced guide is important—the rules, risks, and standards can shift quickly across lenders, and knowing what applies can save headaches.
How retail banks and private lenders compare
In my years helping Brazilians finance homes in the US, I have noticed a key difference in approach:
- Major US retail banks may offer some programs for foreign nationals but tend to be strict, conservative, and limited in their options. They may only offer standard products, require more traditional documentation, and might struggle to guide non-traditional borrowers.
- Private lenders and non-bank mortgage companies are often more flexible and more active in the foreign national home loan space. These lenders can tailor solutions for unique profiles and non-standard documentation.
Securing the right fit often means shopping beyond a single institution.
Why working with a broker like Heart Mortgage makes a difference
I’ve found that the guidance of a specialized mortgage broker can change the outcome for a Brazilian buyer. Here’s why Heart Mortgage, specifically, stands out:
- Access to over 100 lenders, including those specializing in nonresident and complex borrower profiles
- Two decades of experience, strategic file structuring, and deep knowledge of loan requirements
- Helped more than 7,000 families secure over $3 billion in funded mortgages
- Offers guidance in Portuguese and understands the nuances of cross-border transactions
- Personalized support at every step, increasing the probability of successful approval
Brokers like Heart Mortgage have the flexibility and network to match nonstandard borrowers to the right lender—something I find extremely valuable, especially for those whom banks have already turned away. To get a full overview of these advantages, Heart Mortgage explains the differences between these approaches in its guide for foreign nationals.
Making your path smoother in 2026
Brazilians looking to buy or invest in US property shouldn’t feel blocked by complexity. The right preparation increases the odds. Here’s my advice for the journey:
- Gather your documentation early and ensure translations are certified.
- Work with a broker who understands both US and Brazilian systems and provides support in your language.
- Expect larger down payment requirements and be ready to evidence source of funds.
- Select partners who focus on finding the best lender fit for your unique scenario.
Conclusion: Turn your US homeownership plans into reality
Financing a house in the United States as a Brazilian nonresident is very possible in 2026. I see new success stories every month. The right mix of documentation, the proper loan program, and expert support will make the difference. Whether you are considering an ITIN loan, a true foreign national mortgage, or have a special situation, Heart Mortgage structures your file for maximum approval chances and supports you from start to finish. Take the next step—whether you are a first-time buyer, investor, or planning for the future, partnering with experts who speak your language makes all the difference. Get in touch with Heart Mortgage and see how a tailored approach helps you move closer to owning a property in the US.
Frequently asked questions
What are the requirements for Brazilians to get a US mortgage?
Brazilians must provide proof of identity, income, assets, source of down payment, and international or US credit documentation when applying for a US mortgage. Nonresident programs typically require a passport, bank statements, proof of funds, certified translations of documents, and sometimes a higher down payment compared to US residents.
Can Brazilian nonresidents finance a house in the US?
Yes, through foreign national mortgage programs offered by private lenders, Brazilian nonresidents can finance real estate in the United States. These loans don’t require US residency or a social security number but do require a higher down payment and thorough verification of international finances. For more on this, see Heart Mortgage’s in-depth guide.
How much down payment do foreign nationals need?
Foreign nationals should expect to provide at least 25% to 35% down payment when applying for a US mortgage in 2026. Some lenders may require even more, depending on risk factors and documentation. This is higher than the minimums for US residents and reflects additional lender risk.
Is a US credit score required for Brazilian buyers?
A US credit score makes approval easier for some programs (especially conventional and non-permanent resident mortgages), but Brazilians without US credit history can still qualify for foreign national loans by providing strong international credit references and bank documentation. Lenders evaluate ability to pay through various means.
How to find the best mortgage lenders for Brazilians?
The most effective approach is working with a mortgage broker like Heart Mortgage, which offers access to many lenders—including those who understand the financial profiles of Brazilian nonresidents. Specialized brokers help match you with lenders most likely to approve your application and can simplify the process by providing support in Portuguese and handling cross-border complexity.
