Our Foreigners Guide To Rent In America 2024

Looking to rent a room in the USA? The process might work differently from back home. Find everything in our ultimate rent-in-America guide.

How To Rent In America - Foreigners Guide 2024

If you're looking to take the next step and rent in America, you're likely wondering where to start as a first-time renter. Do you need documents and references?

For the rent application as a foreigner in the US you will need to have some documents to show your immigration status and if you qualify as a resident of the US.

You do not have to be a citizen of the US to be approved for a rental application; a landlord cannot deny your application based on your gender, nationality, race, or sex.

Let’s move on to what rental documents you need before you start the rent application process.

Important Documents For Rent Application Process US

Most rental applications need you to prove you are who you say you are and you have the financial capabilities to pay the lease on time no matter if you're a foreigner in the US or not.

In addition to this, as a foreigner, you will need documents that verify you have legal immigration status in the country. It’s handy to have your documents ready before starting the application process.

You will need these documents:

• Proof of identification - This can be your passport, driving license or photo ID.

• Proof of immigration status - A green card or visa showing residence.

• Proof of income/assets - Bank statements showing you have enough income to pay the rent or your guarantor has enough to pay the monthly rent. This can also be in assets.

• Rental offer form - This is the offer form your landlord will give to you to fill in.

• Rent references - Previous rent references from landlords who can prove you were a decent tenant.

Is It Okay To Use An International Guarantor For Rent In America?

It is perfectly fine to use an international guarantor, but they must have at least 80 times the rent in assets or income; this can change according to the requirements. If you don’t have a guarantor, some services provide this instead.

The US Rent Application Process Step By Step

Now we know what documents we need to have on hand, let’s go over the US rent application process step by step in our guide.

• Figure your budget - A good place to start is 30% of your monthly income for rent.

• Look for places that fit your budget - At Alcove Rooms, all utilities are included in the monthly rent cost, with no hidden fees. Scale the slider to your desired budget when searching.

• Fill out the rental lease form - This will be all your important documents, standard details like name, social security number if you have one, pet information, employment and other details.

• Provide references and expect background checks - Here’s where your previous

  rent references come in handy. Your landlord will likely do a criminal background check and ask for a guarantor and a credit check.

• Sign the rental lease form - Now we sign the lease and pay; this is all taken care of online on our Alcove platform.

• Rent with Alcove - All your rental payments are easily handled through our platform, where you can pay through Stripe.

How Much Does Renting a Room Cost In The US?

Renting a room in America is substantially cheaper than renting a whole home or flat, prices can range from anywhere between $500-$1500. At Alcover, all utilities are included in the price with no hidden costs.

First-Time Renter Tips As a Foreigner From Alcove

As a first-time renter in the US, you're probably feeling a bit overwhelmed with the rental process, but don’t worry; once you’ve got all your documents, it’s smooth sailing.

From helping foreigners secure a room of their dreams in the US, these are some handy tips we think will be useful for you.

• Always read your rental lease form properly.

• Avoid fake listings. At Alcove Rooms, all of our landlords are 100% verified and checked.

• Research the location and make sure it works for you.

• Prepare documents in advance.

Finding Your Perfect Rental Room With Alcove

There’s no need to stress about moving when you can rent a room with Alcove. We help you find your perfect home to live in and the right roommates so you can feel as comfortable as possible.

Take a look at our listings today and find the perfect room to rent in America.