Last updated: June 2025
Today’s workforce is more mobile than ever, with professionals trading cubicles for co-working spaces in Bali, Mexico City, and Lisbon.
However, for many digital nomads who still own property in the U.S., a common question arises: Can I obtain a HELOC if I live abroad or travel full-time?
Can you apply for a HELOC while living overseas?
The good news is that a home equity line of credit (HELOC) can still be accessible, even if you’re thousands of miles from your property back in the States.
As long as you meet certain eligibility and logistical requirements, digital nomads can unlock the equity in their U.S. homes without putting their lifestyle on pause.
Access cash within days
Tap into your home’s potential in minutes. Start our streamlined digital application to discover if a HELOC is right for you.
Understanding how HELOCs work
A HELOC is a revolving line of credit secured by the equity in your home. You only borrow what you need when you need it, making it ideal for emergency funds, renovations, or funding a new venture.
Key features of a HELOC
- Draw period: Typically between 5 – 10 years, during which you can borrow and repay flexibly
- Repayment period: Usually 10 to 20 years, with principal and interest due
- Variable interest rates: Based on your credit, income, and equity
Unlike a lump-sum home equity loan, a HELOC provides ongoing access to capital, making it ideal for homeowners with fluctuating or project-based cash needs.
How to access a HELOC while living abroad
Even if you’re not living at your U.S. home full time, you may still qualify for a HELOC.
Lenders care more about your property’s value, equity position, and credit profile than your current GPS coordinates.
As a digital nomad, you’ll likely qualify if you:
- Own a home in the U.S. with sufficient equity
- Maintain a U.S. mailing address (or reliable contact address)
- Have a verifiable source of income
- Possess a qualifying credit score (typically 680+)
- Can be reached to complete the loan documents and disclosures
Because many lenders now support digital applications and e-signatures, being remote is no longer the barrier it once was.
HELOC eligibility criteria while living abroad
Let’s break down the essential qualifications for digital nomads:
- Equity requirement: Most lenders permit borrowing up to 85% of the home’s value after subtracting what’s still owed on the mortgage.
- Credit score: A minimum FICO score of around 680 is common, though some lenders may allow slightly lower with compensating factors.
- Debt-to-income (DTI) ratio: Typically, your total monthly debt payments must not exceed 43–45% of your gross monthly income.
- Income verification: Even if you’re self-employed or freelancing abroad, lenders will ask for two years of U.S. tax returns, bank statements, and possibly client contracts or invoices.
It’s important to maintain a clear paper trail, especially if your income is non-traditional.
Ownership and occupancy requirements
Lenders will want clarity about the type of property you’re borrowing against:
- Primary residence: Even if you’re abroad part-time, your U.S. home can still be considered your primary residence if you intend to return.
- Second home: Vacation or part-time residences may still qualify, but could face stricter loan-to-value caps or higher interest rates.
- Investment property: You can get a HELOC on an investment property, though rates are generally higher and loan amounts are more limited.
Be prepared to clarify whether the property is tenant-occupied or used seasonally.
Applying for a HELOC from outside the U.S.
The application process for digital nomads is more flexible than ever. Most steps can be completed remotely as long as you plan ahead and stay responsive.
Here’s what the process typically looks like:
- Online application: Complete initial forms via secure portal
- Document upload: Submit income, ID, and property documentation digitally
- Appraisal: Scheduled locally with no need for your presence
- E-signatures: Sign disclosures and agreements electronically
- Remote notarization: Some states allow fully digital closings; others may require an in-person notary or a U.S.-based power of attorney
If your state doesn’t permit remote notarization, consider assigning a trusted U.S.-based representative to sign on your behalf.
Real-world scenario: Digital nomad taps equity from abroad
Hypothetical example: Jasmine, a software engineer working remotely from Thailand, owns a condo in Denver with $150,000 in equity. She wants to renovate her property for short-term rental use while she travels.
After verifying her 1099 income with U.S. tax returns and bank statements, she applies for a HELOC through a digital-first platform.
Her property is appraised locally, and she signs closing documents via a remote notary. Within two weeks, she accesses a $60,000 credit line and manages her renovation from overseas.
Common challenges and how to overcome them
Digital nomads may face a few unique hurdles, but with preparation, they’re easy to solve.
Income documentation
Be ready with two years of tax returns, bank records, and proof of consistent earnings—even if freelance.
Notary requirements
Confirm whether your state allows remote online notarization (RON). If not, appoint a power of attorney in the U.S.
Mailing address
Use a permanent address with a family member, attorney, or virtual mailbox provider.
Communication
Make sure you’re reachable via email and phone during the loan process.
FAQs about HELOC application while living abroad
Can I get a HELOC if I live full-time outside the U.S.?
Yes, if you maintain ownership of a U.S. property and meet credit, income, and identification requirements.
Do I need to be physically present for closing?
Not always. Many lenders support e-signing and remote notarization, depending on state law.
What if my income is in a foreign currency?
You’ll need to document currency conversion and how income is reported on U.S. tax returns.
Can I use a HELOC on a rental property I own while abroad?
Yes, but terms may differ slightly for investment or tenant-occupied properties.
Final thoughts: Freedom doesn’t mean forfeiting financial access
As a digital nomad, you’ve embraced flexibility and location independence. That shouldn’t mean losing access to your own financial tools.
With the right documentation and a responsive lender, you can access a HELOC for digital nomads from anywhere in the world.
Whether you’re funding a renovation, launching a new business, or simply building a financial cushion, your U.S. home equity is a powerful asset—no matter where your passport is stamped.
Own property in the U.S. but live abroad?
HomeEQ makes it simple to access your equity, even from another time zone.
