Housing Information

When you rent an apartment, there are some items that your broker, agent, or landlord will require. Each management company or landlord may have their own specific requirements or request additional documents, but below are the most common documents you will be asked to provide when you apply for housing.

• Rental application: This form will ask you basic information about yourself, including address/contact information, occupation, and rental history. It will also likely ask for some references. Unless they specify, you could include your former landlord, host employer or former employer, former roommate, or friend. You should ensure any reference you list speaks English in the event the landlord wishes to contact them.
• Identification and/or Social Security Number: You will need a valid form of I.D. and your Social Security Number (SSN), which you can apply for once you are in the U.S. and activated in SEVIS.
• Credit Score/Credit Check: Your landlord may ask for a credit check. As a J-1 exchange visitor, you may not have a credit history but there are many ways to rent an apartment without a credit history. Some resources include:
• Home Guides
• Apartment Ratings
• Guarantor: Renting an apartment in NYC can be difficult if you’re only staying short-term and don’t have U.S. credit history. For a one-time fee (around 8% of the annual rent), TheGuarantors will act as your lease guarantor and get you approved, so you can enjoy life in the city. You can get pre-approved online before you even arrive in New York, and you won’t need to pay the fee until you’re ready to sign your lease. TheGuarantors can help you find a no-fee apartment that you qualify for, communicate with the landlord, and make the apartment-hunting process as easy as possible. Apply online in minutes, and arrive in New York ready to sign a lease and move in.
• Bank Statement(s): Landlords usually want to see a recent statement – usually last two month – from your bank showing your available funds. If you are low on funds, you may need to consider providing this document from a parent/family member.
• Letter of Employment/Pay Stub(s): Your potential landlord wants to know that you have a steady income. If your internship/training program is paid, ask your host employer to issue you a letter of employment that states your stipend/salary. If your program is unpaid, you may need a letter of employment or pay stub from a parent/family member.

Keep in Mind:

• Since you are relocating from outside of the U.S., prepare your funds and documentation ahead of time. Consult our Budgeting & Cost of Living Guide and ensure that you have English translations of all your documents.
• Costs: You will usually need to cover two months’ rent, any brokerage fees, an application and/or credit check fee or any additional fees up front. Most landlords will only accept certified checks from a local bank.