How to Determine Residency for a VA Loan

By Kay Miranda

Veterans Administration loans help active and retired military personnel buy or build a home. Only veterans are able to apply for the loan; spouse's or beneficiaries are not eligible. Entitlement never expires, making it possible for veterans to buy a home at any age. You VA loan must be for a primary residence -- you cannot use it for raw land, commercial properties or vacation homes. Residency is determined by your personal residence or your spouse's while on active duty and stationed abroad.

Buy a house in the United States or one of its territories or possessions including Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the Virgin Islands or the Northern Mariana Islands. VA loans are not permitted for homes located in foreign countries.

Fund a VA loan in an area you have already established as your permanent residence. Provide current utility bills for other properties you rent or have owned.

Reside in the home within 60 days of closing escrow on the property. The VA loan must fund your primary residence.

Have your spouse remain in the home if you are reassigned somewhere else. A spouse living in the home allows you to fulfill the residency requirement even if you are not physically able to be there. If you are unable to have a spouse remain in the home, you will need to refinance the loan or sell the house.

Some exceptions apply to the 60 day occupancy requirement. A veteran can specify a date to move in not more than 12 months after the escrow closing. Unforeseeable events that delay the occupancy of the veteran are also acceptable under certain circumstances with approval from the lender.

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