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UK mortgage guide

Mortgage documents for non-UK nationals and visa holders

· 5 min read

Many people living in the UK on visas or with settled status buy homes. Lenders have their own rules about immigration status, residence history and income, so the documents you need can differ from those of a UK citizen. Here is what to prepare.

Proof of identity and immigration status

You will need a valid passport. Lenders may also ask for proof of your right to live in the UK, such as a biometric residence permit or an online share code generated from your UK immigration account.

  • Passport
  • Share code or documents showing your visa or settled status, and how long it lasts
  • Proof of address history in the UK

Length of time in the UK

Some lenders look at how long you have lived in the UK and how long you have left on your visa. Lenders may accept different visa types and lengths, so a mortgage adviser who knows the market can save time.

Proof of income and employment

  • The last 3 months of payslips and your latest P60
  • Your employment contract, especially if you are new in the job or on a fixed-term contract
  • The last 3 months of UK bank statements (sometimes 6)

Credit history

If you have not lived in the UK long, your UK credit history may be thin. Registering on the electoral roll if you are eligible, using a UK bank account and managing credit well can help. Some lenders consider overseas credit information in certain cases.

Deposit from overseas

If your deposit comes from abroad, lenders may ask for extra evidence of where the money came from, such as overseas bank statements and documents showing the source. Allow extra time for these checks.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get a UK mortgage on a work visa?

Some lenders offer mortgages to people on certain visas, but criteria vary. A mortgage adviser can tell you which lenders suit your situation.

What is a share code?

A share code is a code generated through your UK online immigration account that lets a third party check your immigration status for a limited time.

Do I need a bigger deposit as a non-UK national?

Some lenders ask for a larger deposit from some applicants, but this varies. Ask your adviser or lender.

Sources and further reading

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