Found an issue on this page? Let us know and we will look into it as soon as possible.
Questions & Answers
Anonymous3 views4 answers
An F-1 visa may not be employed in the United States unless specifically authorized by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on OPT or CPT. It is possible, however, to purchase property and rent out the same. There are no impediments to the ownership of property. As an F-1 visa holder, you may already have a social security number, which is generally required by lenders/mortgage companies when purchasing a piece of property. It is important that you not engaged in any unlawful or unauthorized employment in the United States, and always maintain your F-1 visa status.
Giacomo Jacques BeharImmigration AttorneySan Diego, CACA licensed ·
Yes, any (financially able) person present in the USA, no matter what the visa/immigration/visa status (or lack thereof) can legally purchase a house for investment and rent the property out if he/she so wishes. You will be able to collect rental income, etc. but will be responsible for paying property taxes, just like anyone else, as well as filing both a federal and state income tax return, as a non-resident. Talk to an accountant, CPA or better yet, tax lawyer about that.
Will have no effect whatsoever on ability or eligibility for a "green card".
Vikram Ketty BadrinathImmigration AttorneyTucson, AZ ·
An F-1 visa may not be employed in the United States unless specifically authorized by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services on OPT or CPT. It is possible, however, to purchase property and rent out the same. There are no impediments to the ownership of property. As an F-1 visa holder, you may already have a social security number, which is generally required by lenders/mortgage companies when purchasing a piece of property. It is important that you not engaged in any unlawful or unauthorized employment in the United States, and always maintain your F-1 visa status.
Yes, you can purchase a home and invest in the stock market regardless of visa status. Many non-residents and even people who have never set foot in the US make investments in property or stocks all the time. You will need to report income, which can get tricky given that F1 holders are usually considered non-residents for tax purposes. You will also may need an individual tax identification number (ITIN) if you do not already have a Social Security Number (SSN). You should seek out an attorney or CPA who specializes in international tax who can help you plan your taxes and get your tax ID number.
