Can international students rent apartments in NYC?

Can you rent an apartment on an I-20 Visa or with some other non-resident visa?

The answer is yes.   It is possible and it isn't so difficult. 

The two caveats area that there will be some paperwork involved, and also a guarantor may be necessary.   In most cases this means that you need to find a landlord that accepts international or third party guarantors.  (A third party guarantor company will typically charge a little less than a month's rent, then issue a surety bond covering the lease.)

The big advantage to this system is that the renter is not limited to a select few (sometimes pricy or cheap, but subpar) landlords chosen by the school and does not have to share a room with a total stranger or settle for off-market leasing.

Be advised that the following documents will likely be needed when filling out an application:

• Passport or Photo ID
• Last 2 months of bank statements
• Proof of financial assistance
• I-20 Visa
• School's offer letter
• Recommendation letters
• Employment letter (*if work is allowed)

You can always click the link below to find out if any apartments are available that fall within your budget and are suitable to your needs. 

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