Understanding your visa options is an essential step when purchasing real estate in the United States. Foreign buyers must hold the proper visa or documentation to finance a property, take legal title, and meet ownership obligations such as tax requirements.

At Florida Homes Group, we regularly assist international clients relocating to Orlando and Central Florida, guiding them through the real estate process while connecting them with licensed immigration attorneys, mortgage specialists, and tax professionals who handle the legal and financial aspects of your move.

Certain U.S. lenders may offer financing options using a Tax Identification Number (ITIN), while others require a Social Security Number (SSN), typically issued to those authorized to work in the United States. If you plan to purchase a property as your primary residence, it’s important to have a valid visa that permits you to reside in the U.S. legally.

Our role is to make your transition as smooth as possible — helping you understand the property buying process, connecting you with verified professionals, and coordinating each step with transparency and care.

Below, you’ll find an overview of the most common visa categories that foreign buyers explore when purchasing real estate in the U.S. The information is summarized from official sources, including USCIS.gov (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services).

Certain non-immigrant visas allow international buyers to live, work, or invest in the United States on a temporary basis — often while purchasing property or managing a business. At Florida Homes Group, we assist clients relocating to Orlando and Central Florida by connecting them with trusted immigration and financial professionals to ensure their move and property purchase are handled smoothly and legally.

E-2 Visa — Treaty Investors

The E-2 visa is for citizens of treaty countries who invest a substantial amount in a U.S. business. It’s one of the most common options for entrepreneurs and investors moving to Florida to operate or expand a business.

While it doesn’t grant permanent residency, the E-2 visa can be renewed indefinitely as long as the business remains active and compliant.

• Validity: 2–5 years, depending on nationality
• Extensions: Unlimited renewals while qualifying conditions continue

Learn more on the USCIS E-2 Treaty Investor page.

L-1 Visa — Intracompany Transferees

The L-1 visa allows executives, managers, or specialized employees to transfer from a foreign company to a U.S. branch or affiliate. It’s frequently used by professionals relocating for corporate expansion — often purchasing a home in Orlando during their stay.

• Initial stay: Up to 3 years (1 year for new offices)
• Extensions: 2-year increments, up to 7 years total

For official details, visit the USCIS L-1 Visa page.

EB-5 Visa — Immigrant Investor Program

The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Visa allows qualified foreign investors to obtain U.S. permanent residency (a Green Card) by investing in a new commercial enterprise that creates jobs for American workers.

To qualify, investors must contribute $800,000 to $1,050,000 USD, depending on whether the project is located in a Targeted Employment Area (TEA), and the investment must create or preserve at least 10 full-time U.S. jobs.

The EB-5 program is often chosen by international investors seeking a pathway to U.S. residency through business or real estate-related ventures. Many use this visa to establish operations or relocate their families to growing markets like Orlando and Central Florida.

• Minimum investment: $800,000 (TEA) or $1,050,000 (standard)
• Job creation requirement: At least 10 full-time U.S. positions
• Eligible applicants: Investor, spouse, and unmarried children under 21

For complete eligibility details, visit the USCIS EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program page.

Source: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS.gov)