Mortgages for Foreigners in the UK

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Mortgages for Expats and Foreign Nationals

Edited: February 2026

Buying property in the UK as an expat or foreign national is entirely achievable with the right advice and structure. While the process is more complex than for UK residents, specialist lenders do offer UK mortgages to overseas applicants who meet the required criteria.

At GPS Financial, we regularly arrange mortgages for expats and foreign nationals purchasing UK property for both residential and investment purposes. This guide explains how UK mortgages for overseas buyers work, the challenges involved, and how to improve your chances of approval.

Can Expats and Foreign Nationals Get a UK Mortgage?

Yes. Expats and foreign nationals can obtain a UK mortgage, provided they meet lender requirements around affordability, deposit size, and identity verification.

Each application is assessed on its own merits. Lenders typically focus on income stability, deposit level, residency status, visa type where applicable, and the type of property being purchased.

You may also find our Mortgages for Non-UK Residents page useful

Buying Property in the UK While Living Abroad

There are no restrictions preventing overseas buyers from purchasing property in the UK.

However, your country of residence must be recognised by the Financial Action Task Force, the international body that sets standards for anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing. If your country appears on the approved list, applying for a UK mortgage is generally possible.

Countries such as China and Hong Kong are commonly accepted. Applications from countries not recognised by the Financial Action Task Force are typically not supported by UK lenders.

Common Challenges for Expat and Foreign National Mortgages

Applying for a mortgage from overseas involves additional considerations compared to UK resident applications.

Common challenges include:

Your country of residence needing to be recognised by the Financial Action Task Force
Verification of overseas income
Limited or no UK credit history
Additional identity and source of funds checks
Increased solicitor involvement

These challenges do not automatically prevent approval. They simply mean the application must be structured correctly from the outset.

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How to Improve Your Chances of Approval

Working with a specialist mortgage broker is one of the most effective ways to improve your chances of success.

At GPS Financial, we work with specialist lenders, including international and private banks that do not deal directly with the public. We understand lender appetite, documentation requirements, and the common issues faced by overseas applicants.

Correct lender selection and clear presentation of income and documentation can significantly reduce delays and improve approval prospects.

You can explore our wider mortgage services here

Deposit Requirements and Borrowing Limits

Deposit requirements vary depending on several factors, including:
Whether the property is residential or Buy to Let
Your residency status
The lender’s risk appetite

As a general guide, expat and foreign national mortgages typically require a deposit of around 25 percent. The amount you can borrow is usually assessed against income or rental yield, depending on the property type.

For investment purchases, rental income plays a central role in affordability assessments.

Further detail is available on our Buy to Let Mortgages page

Buy to Let Mortgages for Expats and Foreign Nationals

Expats and foreign nationals can purchase Buy to Let property in the UK without restriction.

If this is your first UK property, you may not yet have a UK credit footprint. While this can result in slightly higher rates initially, it does not prevent borrowing.

Once a UK bank account and credit profile are established, either personally or through a limited company, lender choice and pricing often improve.

Is the Application Process Different?

Mortgage applications for expats and foreign nationals usually involve more documentation than standard UK resident applications.You should expect to provide:

Certified identification documents
Proof of overseas income
Evidence of deposit and source of funds
Additional solicitor involvement

As your broker, we help identify the most suitable lender and manage the documentation to keep the process as smooth and efficient as possible.

How a Mortgage Broker Adds Value

A specialist broker plays a critical role in expat and foreign national mortgage applications.

In some cases, you may need to travel to the UK to meet solicitors or complete legal formalities. Where property is purchased through a limited company, independent legal advice is often required due to personal guarantees included in most mortgage arrangements.

At GPS Financial, we coordinate with lenders, solicitors, and overseas professionals to ensure requirements are met without unnecessary delays.

Independent regulatory guidance on UK mortgage lending is available from the Financial Conduct Authority

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an expat and a foreign national?
An expat is typically a UK citizen living and working abroad. A foreign national is someone who is not a UK citizen. Lenders assess applications based on residency, income location, and visa status rather than labels alone.

Can expats and foreign nationals buy property in the UK?
Yes. There are no restrictions on overseas ownership of UK property. Both expats and foreign nationals can purchase property for residential or investment purposes.

Do expats and foreign nationals need a UK bank account?
A UK bank account is not always mandatory, but many lenders and solicitors prefer one. Having a UK account can simplify mortgage payments, rental income collection, and tax administration.

How much deposit is usually required?
Deposit requirements vary by lender, but expats and foreign nationals typically need between 20 percent and 40 percent of the purchase price. Around 25 percent is common, depending on circumstances.

Can expats and foreign nationals get Buy to Let mortgages?
Yes. Many specialist lenders offer Buy to Let mortgages to expats and foreign nationals. Rental income is usually central to affordability, particularly for investment purchases.

Does not having UK credit history prevent approval?
No. A UK credit history is helpful but not essential. Lenders may rely on overseas credit reports, bank statements, and income documentation instead.

Speak to GPS Financial

If you are an expat or foreign national considering buying property in the UK, speak to the team at GPS Financial.

We will review your residency status, income, and plans, then explain your mortgage options clearly and honestly.

Call 029 2267 7707 or visit our Contact page to start the conversation