For example, here in Colombia, you can invest around $35,000 into a property, share of a hotel, etc. and it would be enough to qualify you for the 2-year resident VISA.

This number takes the place of the SS number and could be what a resident uses or someone on a worker permit or visa uses.

@ Raymond RichmondPlastiq can only use Master Card to do the cash for down payment for a fee not with Visa. 

If want to do a real deep dive on Intl Real Estate and Visas you should check out a youtube channel called Nomad Capitalist.   

Hi Jeremy...Regarding your question about people investing in Europe, we are getting good results for properties in Greece, largely due to the quality of the properties, seaside or sea view locations, significantly reduced prices, and last year's launch of the Greek residency visa for non-EU buyers spending at least 250,000 Euros.

I am currently living in Seattle with my fiancee but we tentatively plan to move to the Midwest in 2-4 years.That being said, we are interested in investing our money and want to get into real estate for the long haul(probably brrrr).

What if a foreign national on a work visa wants to rent from you and he's unable to pass a credit check or criminal background?

@Shaun Weekes   Can you lend to a foreign national who does not have any type of US visa?

I cant see how this helps real estate unless the folks coming in are educated and capable of high wages..Well the US is actively pushing out highly educated H1B holders by non renewing visas and making the process for a green card impossible.

Easier buyer market is very important for a beginner buyer like me, though I realize that US is much more difficult option personaly (employment uncertentainty; obtaining work visa; getting mortgage while Canadian credit score is not accepted and having no US credit score yet; at-will employement; healh care; moving car and property across continent…and many more).After reading all comments, buying a house and renting out a part of it seems to be the best first step for a novice.