To apply for a two-year work authorization to purchase a home in New York City, follow these steps: First, secure a valid employment-based visa such as an H-1B, L-1, or O-1, which allows you to work in the U.S. for a specific employer. Your employer must file Form I-129 with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to sponsor your visa. Once approved, you will receive a Form I-797, which grants you a visa stamp and work authorization.

Next, establish financial eligibility for home purchase. New York City requires foreign buyers to prove a minimum down payment of 20% for conventional loans or 5% for FHA loans. Additionally, you must demonstrate stable income, typically through tax returns, pay stubs, or bank statements. Consult a real estate attorney to navigate NYC-specific regulations, such as co-op board approvals and property taxes.

Maintain employment throughout the two-year authorization period, as losing your job may result in visa termination. If you intend to live in the home, consider applying for a green card through family sponsorship or employment-based pathways after purchase.

The process is critical because work authorization is legally required to reside and purchase property in the U.S. Data from the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD) shows that foreign buyers accounted for 10% of home purchases in 2022, highlighting the importance of visa approvals for real estate transactions. USCIS approval rates for employment-based visas hover around 80%, but delays can occur due to backlogs, emphasizing the need for timely employer filings. Furthermore, NYC’s median home price reached $1.2 million in 2023, making financial preparedness and visa compliance essential to avoid transactional setbacks. Without proper authorization, non-citizens risk legal penalties or property ownership challenges, underscoring the necessity of this structured approach.