Can foreigners get a mortgage in Germany in 2026?

Lenders favour stable euro income, employment beyond probation, a strong household surplus, German banking history, clean SCHUFA credit data, and a residence status that is likely to outlast the loan relationship.

Permanent residence usually broadens the lender pool. An EU Blue Card, Germany's skilled-worker residence permit for qualifying employment, can be accepted by some banks but does not guarantee approval.

Non-residents, temporary-permit holders, self-employed applicants, and people paid in another currency may face fewer lenders and higher equity demands. Ask for an individual decision rather than relying on a nationality rule from an online forum.

Bring enough savings for real estate transfer tax, notary, land-register fees, and any buyer brokerage. Banks commonly expect these closing costs from the buyer rather than adding them to the mortgage.

Equity toward the property price improves pricing and approval. Non-residents or foreign-currency earners may need a much larger share than established German residents.

The bank lends against its own valuation, which may be below the agreed purchase price. You must cover the difference as well as closing costs.

Zinsbindung is the period during which the mortgage interest rate is fixed. A common structure fixes the rate for a chosen term while regular payments cover interest and Tilgung, the repayment of principal.

Restschuld is the remaining debt when the fixed-rate period ends. Compare offers using the projected remaining balance, not only the initial monthly payment.

The bank secures the loan through a Grundschuld, a land charge registered against the property. The notary coordinates the relevant land-register documents.

Expect identity and residence documents, address registration, employment contract, payslips, tax returns where relevant, bank statements, savings proof, debts, and credit information.

The property file can include the land-register extract, plans, energy certificate, valuation material, building documents, and apartment-ownership records.

A Baufinanzierungsvermittler is a mortgage broker specialising in property finance. Ask how the broker is paid, which lenders are compared, and whether the advice covers non-resident cases.