Can Foreigners Buy Property in Florida? 2026 Buyer's Guide

Buying a home in Florida as a foreigner can feel overwhelming, especially if you're unfamiliar with the U.S. process.

Whether you're moving to Florida on a visa like the H-1B or L-1 or investing from abroad, this guide walks you through every step of buying property in the state.

Check Your Florida Home Purchase Eligibility as an International Buyer

You'll learn the rules for foreign buyers, the documents you need, how to get a mortgage without U.S. credit history, and the taxes to plan for when you buy and sell.

Is It Possible for Foreigners to Purchase a House in Florida?

Yes, foreigners can buy property in Florida, and for buyers from most countries there are no restrictions based on citizenship. Non-U.S. residents can purchase homes, vacation properties, commercial buildings, or even land.

The process is straightforward. The main exception applies to buyers domiciled in certain "countries of concern" under Florida's 2023 foreign ownership law, explained below.

This guide will walk you through the requirements, steps, and tax considerations for buying a home in Florida as an international buyer. If you're coming from Canada or the UK, we also have dedicated guides to moving to Florida from Canada and buying a house in Florida from the UK.

Foreign Real Estate Transactions in Florida - A Closer Look

According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), foreign buyers purchased 78,100 existing U.S. homes worth $56 billion between April 2024 and March 2025, with a record median price of $494,400.

Florida drew 21% of those buyers, more than any other state, and it has been the top destination for international buyers for at least 15 years.

The leading countries of origin were China (15%), Canada (14%), Mexico (8%), India (6%), and the United Kingdom (4%), and 47% of foreign buyers paid all cash.

See If You Can Buy a Florida Home as a Foreign Buyer

Guidelines for Foreigners Purchasing Property in Florida

Foreign nationals can buy property in Florida with the same rights as U.S. citizens.

There are a few things to know first:

• Foreign buyers who will finance the purchase, rent the property, or file U.S. tax returns need a U.S. tax identification number, either a Social Security number or an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) from the IRS.
• Non-U.S. citizens need to secure financing through a U.S.-based bank or lender if they require a mortgage.
• Lenders may require income verification, employment history, and credit records, though some mortgage programs allow foreigners to qualify without a U.S. credit history.
• Foreign buyers typically need a higher down payment, usually between 25% and 30% of the property's price with a foreign national mortgage.
• Tax obligations for foreign buyers are generally the same as for U.S. citizens, with extra rules when you rent or sell.

There are no restrictions on most foreigners buying a primary residence or investment property in Florida.

Florida's Foreign Ownership Law (SB 264)

Since July 1, 2023, Florida law has restricted property purchases by certain people and entities domiciled in specific "countries of concern," including China, Russia, Iran, North Korea, Cuba, Venezuela, and Syria. The strictest rules apply to buyers domiciled in China, while buyers tied to the other listed countries face limits near military installations and critical infrastructure. In November 2025, a federal appeals court allowed the law to remain in effect.

Every buyer of Florida real estate now signs an affidavit at closing confirming they are not a prohibited buyer. Buyers from Canada, Latin America, Europe, and most other countries are not affected, but because the rules turn on domicile and property location, it is worth confirming your situation with a Florida real estate attorney before you make an offer.

Required Documentation for Foreigners Purchasing Property in Florida

When selecting your mortgage lender, you may be asked to provide some or all of the following documents as part of the process to buy property in Florida.

Documents foreigners need to buy property in Florida:

• A valid foreign passport.
• A US visa or a driver's license.
• For global investors, some lenders might require a B-1/B-2 (visitor visa).
• Visa waiver countries don't need that, and some lenders don't need a visa at all.
• Social Security number or ITIN.
• Bank statements and, if relevant, financial documents from your foreign bank.
• Evidence of reserves.
• Pay stubs or other proof of income.
• Tax return.
• Credit score or an international credit report (if applicable).

Even if you lack a US credit history, it's still possible to secure a mortgage for your Florida property acquisition.

Check Your Eligibility for a Florida Mortgage Without U.S. Credit

How to Buy a House in Florida as a Foreigner – Step-by-Step

Buying a home in Florida as a foreigner is easier than you might think. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from choosing a location to finalizing the purchase.

Step 1 – Choose the Right Location

For buyers from most countries, there are no restrictions on purchasing property in Florida. However, choosing the right location is key.

• If you're moving to Florida, consider factors like commute time, neighborhood quality, schools (if applicable), and nearby amenities. Our guide to the cheapest places to buy a house in Florida is a good starting point.
• If you're an investor, research cities and regions that offer the best rental potential and property appreciation, and check local short-term rental rules before you buy.

Step 2 – Find a Real Estate Agent Who Specializes in Foreign Buyers

Working with an experienced real estate agent who understands international transactions can make the process much smoother.

• Look for an agent who specializes in helping foreign buyers, especially those with visas like H-1B, L-1, or F-1.
• The Certified International Property Specialist (CIPS) designation shows the agent has training in international real estate transactions.
• Many CIPS agents speak multiple languages and can guide you through Florida's specific regulations.

MakeFloridaYourHome can help connect you with a CIPS-certified agent for expert assistance.

Step 3 – Work with Your Real Estate Agent

Your agent will guide you through each step, helping you find properties, negotiate prices, and handle paperwork.

• Since August 2024, buyers sign a written buyer agreement before touring homes with an agent.
• The agreement spells out how your agent is paid. Sellers often still cover the buyer's agent commission in Florida, but it's negotiable, so confirm the terms upfront.
• A good real estate agent will provide expert guidance throughout the purchase.

Step 4 – Understand Taxes for Foreign Buyers

Foreign buyers in Florida do not pay extra property taxes compared to U.S. citizens. However, tax rules depend on how you use the property:

• If you live in the home as your permanent residence, you may qualify for the homestead exemption; otherwise, you'll pay standard property taxes.
• If you rent out the home, you must pay U.S. federal taxes on rental income (Florida has no state income tax).
• If you sell the property, you may have additional tax obligations, including FIRPTA withholding.

Most foreign buyers need an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) to finance, rent, or report income from a property. A tax professional or IRS-certified acceptance agent can help you apply.

Step 5 – Start Searching for a Home

Tell your real estate agent what you're looking for, including:

• Price range
• Property type (house, condo, investment property, etc.)
• Preferred location

If you're living in Florida, your agent will schedule home visits. If you're buying from abroad, they can provide photos, videos, and virtual tours.

Your agent can also answer questions about schools, transportation, and local amenities.

Step 6 – Make an Offer

Once you find the right home, your agent will help you make an offer based on comparable recent sales.

• Most list prices are negotiable, and your agent will advise on the best offer.
• The seller may accept, reject, or counter your offer with a different price.
• Once your offer is accepted, you're one step closer to owning a home in Florida!

Step 7 – Get Financing as a Foreign Buyer

You don't need a U.S. credit history to get a mortgage. Some U.S. lenders offer home loans for foreign buyers, including those on visas like H-1B and L-1.

• These lenders specialize in mortgages for international buyers at competitive interest rates.
• You typically need a 25%–30% down payment to qualify for a foreign national loan.
• If you pay in cash, you can complete the purchase in about 30 days.
• If you finance with a mortgage, expect the process to take about 45 to 60 days.

If you need more time, your real estate agent can negotiate the closing date to fit your schedule. You also don't need to be in Florida to close; closings can be completed remotely.

See If You Qualify for a Florida Mortgage as a Foreign Buyer

5 Mortgage Options for International Buyers Purchasing Property in the USA

Financing a US home as a foreigner takes a little more planning, but you have several mortgage options depending on your situation.

Here are five common mortgage options for international buyers:

Mortgages for Foreigners with No US Credit

Foreign National Mortgage

A foreign national mortgage is built for buyers who live outside the US or are new to it.

Conventional loans are hard for many foreign nationals to get, because they don't have US credit history or US income documents.

As a result, foreign national loans usually require a higher down payment (usually 25% to 30%, and 30% to 40% for condo-hotels, short-term rentals, or large loans) and slightly higher interest rates.

Even so, they're one of the most practical ways for foreign nationals to buy US real estate without paying all cash.

DSCR Loan (Designed for Investment Properties)

A DSCR (Debt Service Coverage Ratio) loan is built for investment properties, and it works well for non-residents and foreign nationals buying rentals in the US.

It qualifies you based on whether the property's rent covers the mortgage payment, not on your personal income. That makes it a good fit for international investors building a rental portfolio, including short-term vacation rentals.

Most DSCR loans require a credit score, but some lenders offer DSCR loans to foreign buyers with no US credit history.

Those versions usually come with a larger down payment and a higher rate than a standard DSCR loan.

MakeFloridaYourHome can connect you with DSCR lenders who work with foreign buyers and non-US residents.

ITIN Loans

An ITIN loan is a mortgage for borrowers who have an Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN) instead of a Social Security number.

They're designed for people living in the US who aren't eligible for a Social Security number but have a US tax filing history.

Requirements vary by lender, but an ITIN loan can be a path to homeownership without a Social Security number.

Mortgages for Non-US Residents with Established Credit

FHA Loan

An FHA loan, backed by the Federal Housing Administration (FHA), makes homeownership more accessible, with more flexible credit requirements and lower down payments than most conventional loans.

Since May 2025, FHA loans are limited to U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (green card holders). Green card holders with an established US credit history can qualify by meeting the minimum credit score requirement, which generally starts at 580.

Conventional Mortgage

A conventional mortgage adheres to the parameters outlined by government-sponsored entities such as Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.

To qualify for a conventional mortgage as a foreigner, you'll generally need solid US credit history and a credit score of about 620 or higher. Green card holders and many visa holders with valid work authorization can qualify.

FHA and conventional loans usually offer the best rates and the lowest down payments.

They're available to buyers who live in the US with the right residency status and an established US credit history.

If you have good US credit, MakeFloridaYourHome can connect you with lenders who work with foreign buyers.

These lenders regularly handle FHA and conventional loans for non-US citizens.

Foreign National Mortgage vs. Cash Purchase

Foreign National Loan Program Comparison

Terms vary by lender, property classification, and buyer circumstances. If you're buying a condo, the lender will also review the building, so see our Florida condo loan guide.

Check Your Eligibility for a Foreign National Mortgage

Visa Requirements for Foreigners Purchasing Property in the US

Green Card Holders

Green card holders have nearly the same mortgage options as US citizens.

They are eligible for FHA loans, Fannie Mae loans, or Freddie Mac loans.

Down payments can be as low as 3%, usually with at least two years of US tax and work history.

Temporary Non-Resident Aliens

Temporary residents with valid work visas are no longer eligible for FHA loans, but they can often qualify for conventional loans.

Lenders typically ask for a valid visa or Employment Authorization Document and a Social Security number.

Lenders often look for evidence that your work authorization is likely to continue for at least three years.

Refugees and Asylees

Refugees and individuals granted asylum in the US can apply for conventional home loans, and they can apply for FHA loans once they become lawful permanent residents.

Documentation such as a valid Form I-94 bearing an "Employment Authorized" stamp or an Employment Authorization Document will be required.

Global Investors

Some lenders ask global investors for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa. If you're from a Visa Waiver Program country, you usually don't need a visa to get a US mortgage.

Your visa status affects which loans you can get, so it's worth sorting out early. MakeFloridaYourHome can help you figure out which options fit your status before you apply.

Foreign Investment in Real Property Tax Act (FIRPTA)

FIRPTA applies when international owners sell U.S. real property, including Florida property. The buyer generally must withhold 15% of the gross sale price and send it to the IRS as a prepayment toward the seller's U.S. tax on the sale.

FIRPTA does not stop foreigners from buying in Florida, but it's worth planning for. Withholding can be reduced or eliminated in some cases, such as when the buyer will live in the home and the price is $300,000 or less, or when the IRS approves a reduced withholding certificate.

Foreign buyers regularly work with U.S. tax advisors to understand long-term tax consequences, including U.S. estate tax, which can apply to U.S. property owned by non-residents.

Final Thoughts

Buying property in Florida is open to buyers from nearly every country. You don't need U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, or a U.S. credit history to own a home here, though the right guidance makes the process much easier.

With careful preparation, the right financing, and an experienced agent and lender, foreign nationals can confidently buy property throughout Florida in 2026. Use our home affordability calculator to estimate your budget before you start your search.

Start Your Florida Home Purchase: Check Your Eligibility as a Foreign Buyer