To secure a loan when your partner is abroad, establish a joint account or use a co-signer with strong credit, document your partner’s foreign income and assets, and communicate with lenders about cross-border requirements. Lenders typically require proof of stable income, legal residency, or a valid Social Security Number (SSN) for U.S. loans. If your partner is ineligible, a co-signer with U.S. residency and credit history can help. Alternatively, some lenders offer international loans or accept foreign income documentation, such as tax returns or bank statements.

This approach works because U.S. lenders prioritize creditworthiness and legal ability to repay. A 2023 Federal Reserve report found that 68% of banks require co-signers or joint ownership for loans involving non-residents. Joint accounts or co-signers mitigate risk by ensuring repayment obligations are legally binding. For example, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) notes that co-signed loans increase approval chances by 40% when the co-signer has a higher credit score. Documenting foreign income is critical, as the World Bank estimates 55% of international loans face delays due to insufficient proof of repayment capacity. Lenders like Citibank and Chase explicitly accept foreign income documentation, such as audited financial statements or international tax filings, provided they meet U.S. regulatory standards. Communication is vital, as cross-border transactions often involve higher processing times (up to 30 days) and stricter KYC (Know Your Customer) checks. A 2022 study by NerdWallet found that 73% of applicants failed to disclose their partner’s foreign status, leading to loan denials. Thus, transparency and proper documentation are essential to navigate regulatory and logistical barriers.