# How do lenders qualify Canadian expats living abroad?

> Canadian citizens living abroad are treated similarly to non-residents if they lack Canadian-sourced income.

Category: Regulatory
Last verified: 2026-04-14
Source: https://ratellow.com/faqs/regulatory/how-do-lenders-qualify-canadian-expats-living-abroad

## Answer
Canadian citizens living abroad are treated similarly to non-residents if they lack Canadian-sourced income. Key benchmarks: (1) 20% minimum down payment for non-residents (must be from their own resources, not borrowed), (2) 12 months of mortgage payments must be held in a Canadian bank account as a 'liquidity buffer,' (3) International credit report required, (4) Letter of employment and tax returns from their country of residence required.

## Related guide
- https://ratellow.com/guides/non-resident-expat-mortgage

## Sources
- B-20 Foreign Income Verification — https://www.osfi-bsif.gc.ca/en/guidance/guidance-library/residential-mortgage-underwriting-practices-procedures-guideline-2017#2.3.1
- Foreign Buyer Ban Exceptions — https://www.canada.ca/en/financial-consumer-agency/services/mortgages/renew-mortgage.html#toc3