If I am not a U.S. citizen, what should I expect when applying for an apartment rental? Are there different requirements for me compared with a U.S. citizen?

If you are not a U.S. citizen, you may be facing stricter requirements from management companies / landlords during the application process.  The main issue that usually arises is the absence of a credit score, which is an important factor that is used to determine the financial suitability of a prospective tenant.  In addition, non-citizens can be considered more of a “flight risk,” meaning that it wouldn’t be difficult to leave and not pay the remaining rent required by a lease.

As a result of various potential risks, mgmt cos / landlords may require the use of a guarantor, multiple months of security deposit or even a full year’s rent paid upfront in order to be approved for an apartment.  Other standard requirements, such as proof of employment, adequate income and assets, as well as references and other items would apply as well.

Guarantors
A guarantor is an individual or entity that guarantees payment of rent in a situation where the current tenant cannot or does not pay, according to an executed lease agreement.  Guarantors are usually U.S. citizens with annual income of at least 80x the monthly rent, good credit scores and demonstrate the financial ability to cover all rent owed in case an issue arises with the tenant.

If a guarantor is needed, but one cannot be secured, a company called Insurent is another option to act as a guarantor for a lease holder.  The application process for this service requires a review of financial and credit information and the annual fee can total about one month’s rent, if not more for international customers with no U.S. based credit history.

Security Deposit
One month’s security deposit is generally the standard for most leases involving tenants with solid financials and credit.  However, non U.S. citizens may be required to put up multiple months of security deposit to protect the mgmt co / landlord, in case the tenant leaves the country without paying remaining rent or for damages to the property.

Upfront Rent
Many mgmt cos / landlords require multiple months of rent paid upfront for international tenants to ensure they receive all funds due according to the lease agreement.  Generally, this amount could total 6 months or even a full year’s rent, which is relatively common.

Diplomats
Some mgmt cos / landlords refuse all diplomats while others welcome them.  The issue is diplomatic immunity, which protects diplomats but can create a major risk for building / apartment owners.  Therefore, many will require diplomats to waive their right to immunity with respect to the lease.