Just a few weeks before a new federal regulation comes into effect that will limit immigrants' access to mortgage loans, a Cuban couple has managed to achieve the American dream: buying a home in the United States, despite not having permanent immigration status.
She has been in the country for four years with an I-220A form - a precarious legal status that does not guarantee permanent immigration status - and he, after entering with a parole three years ago, already has his residency. Together, they have just signed for the purchase of their first home.
The journalist Javier Díaz from Univisión shared the story on Facebook: "Did you know you didn't need to be a resident to buy a house in the United States? Now, the law is about to change, and a Cuban with an I-220A got on the last train," he wrote.
In a video originally posted on TikTok by the young woman, she is heard saying excitedly: "When we arrived in this country, we were clear about one thing: we wanted to buy a house," she said.
The Cuban encourages other immigrants to pursue their goals, without allowing their immigration status to hold them back: "With negative thoughts, we will not make progress here."
A race against time
The story of this couple becomes relevant in a context of imminent changes in the housing policy of the United States. On May 25, 2025, new restrictions from the government of Donald Trump will come into effect that will prevent immigrants without permanent residency from accessing FHA-insured mortgage loans.
This includes people with temporary visas, asylum seekers, DACA beneficiaries, and those who file taxes with an ITIN number and do not have a Social Security Number (SSN). Financial institutions will be required to verify the immigration status of all applicants, thereby shutting the door on thousands of potential buyers.
However, those who obtain an FHA loan case number before May 25 will still be able to apply under the current rules. This was precisely the case for this couple, who were able to meet that deadline thanks to their valid work permit and a legal financing process.
"The bank reviewed her documentation and, having authorization to work, she was able to access the loan without the need to be a permanent resident," explained the financial advisor who managed the transaction.
The house of your dreams, yet to be built
Although they have already signed the mortgage, the couple still hasn't fully moved in. With the house filled with unopened boxes and furniture yet to be assembled, they are in the midst of remodeling and adapting. "God willing, in a week we'll be living here," the girl said.
His testimony has sparked diverse reactions on social media, where many users have expressed surprise, hope, and even concern about the imminent impossibility of accessing these types of benefits.
A more uncertain future for thousands of immigrants
Since 1934, FHA loans have been a key tool in facilitating access to housing, particularly among low-income families, first-time homebuyers, and immigrant communities. Their flexibility in terms of credit scores and down payments made them particularly appealing.
With the new shift in immigration policy, thousands will be left out, and alternative options—such as mortgages based on ITIN—will continue to exist, albeit with less favorable and accessible conditions.
The case of this Cuban couple is a symbol of a window that is about to close for many. Their message, amid uncertainty, resonates strongly: "Don’t think about your status, think about your dream."
Starting May 25, all mortgage loan applicants must demonstrate their status as legal permanent residents through official documentation issued by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The Deputy Undersecretary for Housing, Jeffrey D. Little, asserts that the measure ensures that FHA mortgage insurance programs are administered in accordance with the Administration's priorities while fulfilling its mission to facilitate access to homeownership.
"Currently, non-permanent residents are subject to immigration laws that may affect their legal status in the country," Little warned in a memorandum.
"This uncertainty poses a challenge for the FHA, as the ability to meet long-term financial obligations depends on the stability of residency and employment," he added.
Frequently Asked Questions about Housing Purchases by Immigrants in the U.S. Under I-220A Status
What is the I-220A status and how does it affect Cubans in the U.S.?
The I-220A is a document that grants parole to certain migrants, allowing them to stay in the U.S. while their immigration status is resolved. For Cubans, it represents a state of legal limbo, with no access to permanent residency or the possibility of returning to their home country without risks.
Can Cubans with an I-220A buy a house in the USA?
Yes, Cubans with I-220A can buy a house in the U.S. as long as they meet certain requirements, such as having a valid work permit and demonstrating to the bank that they will be employed for at least the next two years. It is also important to have a good credit history and meet tax obligations.
How do the new mortgage restrictions affect immigrants in the U.S.?
The new mortgage restrictions, which take effect on May 25, 2025, will prevent immigrants without permanent residence from accessing FHA-insured mortgage loans. This will affect individuals with temporary visas, asylum seekers, DACA recipients, and those who file taxes using an ITIN number.
What alternatives do immigrants excluded from FHA loans have?
Although immigrants without permanent residency will not be able to access FHA loans, there are alternative options such as ITIN-based mortgages. However, these often come with less favorable and accessible terms compared to FHA loans.
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