Visas
Looking for a mortgage as a visa holder in the UK? Our specialist advisers help you navigate deposit and lender criteria, tailored to your visa situation.
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At Mortgage Light, we understand that getting a mortgage in the UK while on a visa can feel confusing. But being a foreign national doesn’t mean you’re excluded from homeownership, it just means your mortgage journey may look a little different.
Whether you're new to the UK or have been living and working here for several years, we’re here to help you understand what’s possible and support you in finding a lender that matches your circumstances.
What lenders look for when you’re on a Visa
Yes, many lenders do offer mortgages to non-UK nationals, including those on work, partner, or family visas. However, criteria can vary depending on your residency status, how long you’ve lived in the UK, your income, and the type of visa you hold. Some key things lenders typically consider:
- How long you've been in the UK
- How much time remains on your current visa
- Whether you're employed, self-employed, or contracting
- Your credit history and financial footprint in the UK
- Your deposit size and whether the funds are from your own savings
Which types of applicants can we help?
We work with a wide range of clients, including:
- Skilled workers and professionals on sponsored or work-based visas
- Spouse or partner visa holders
- Foreign nationals with pre-settled or settled status
- First-time buyers and home movers
If you’re unsure whether you meet the requirements, or if you’ve been turned down before, speak to our team. We’re experts at helping you present your application clearly to the right lender.
MORTGAGES FOR VISA HOLDERS
How we help visa holders secure the right mortgage
At Mortgage Light, we’ve helped many clients on visas successfully secure lending, even where the criteria can feel unclear or inconsistent. With strong relationships across the market, we know which lenders tend to be more flexible around visa types, deposit levels, or time remaining on your stay in the UK. Here’s how we make a practical difference for visa holders right now:
- We know which lenders accept Tier 2 (Skilled Worker), Health and Care Worker, and spousal visas, and how long you need left on your visa to qualify.
- We’ve supported clients with just 10% deposits, and in some cases as low as 5%, depending on visa type and residency duration.
- Some lenders now accept applications with just 6 months remaining on a visa - we’ll help you identify which ones.
- If you’ve been in the UK less than 2 years or have limited credit history, we’ll direct you to lenders that don’t require a full UK footprint.
- Professionals in sectors like healthcare or education may benefit from enhanced flexibility, and we stay on top of lender criteria as they evolve.
We track lending criteria in real-time, so you don’t have to. Whether you’re on a skilled visa, spousal visa, or new to the UK, we’ll find the right fit, and explain what’s needed to strengthen your application.
💡 Working with the leading lenders in the whole of market...
MAKING MORTGAGES FOR VISA HOLDERS SIMPLE
Why choose Mortgage Light?
We’ve helped clients from all over the world make a home in the UK. Our advisers understand the nuances of visa-based lending, and we stay on top of the ever-changing criteria lenders use. Whether you’re just getting started or you’re ready to apply, we’re here to help. When you work with us, you’ll benefit from:
Clear, straightforward advice with no jargon
A tailored strategy based on your personal situation
Support from application through to completion
A team with decades of combined experience
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Frequently asked questions
Got a question? It might be answered here. You can also head over to our FAQ page to read more of our frequently asked questions.
Can I get a mortgage in the UK if I’m on a visa?
Yes! If you’re in the UK on a visa you can still get a mortgage - you’ll need to have a valid visa and meet the criteria - some lenders will require a minimum amount of time in the UK.
How much deposit do I need with a visa?
You may be able to buy with as little as a 5% deposit, depending on your situation, visa type and credit history.
Does the length of my visa matter?
Yes the length left on your visa will affect your chances. Lenders usually want to see that you have time left on your visa, or a history of renewal, to show stability.
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Testimonials
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Frequently asked questions
Got a question? It might be answered here. You can also head over to our FAQ page to read more of our frequently asked questions.
Do green mortgages cost more?
Not necessarily. Many lenders actually offer better rates or incentives if the property meets green criteria. We’ll compare these alongside standard deals to ensure you’re getting value.
Can landlords get green mortgages?
Yes. Landlords can often benefit from green products too, especially when upgrading properties or buying newer, more efficient builds. We can advise on how these changes impact affordability and borrowing.
What if my property doesn't qualify yet?
No problem, we’ll still explore the best deal for your current position, and help you map out a path to improving your home’s energy performance if that’s part of your plan.
HOMEOWNERSHIP FOR EVERYONE.
10 ways first time buyers are getting on the property ladder
As a first-time buyer, there are a number of mortgage products designed to help make homeownership more accessible - particularly if you’re struggling to build up a large deposit.
Low deposit mortgages
Where some lenders will accept deposits as low as 5%, depending on your credit profile and income.
Higher income multiples
Available to applicants with strong rental histories, a high salary, or professional qualifications, often more accessible when you have a larger deposit
Cashback mortgages
A fixed sum back upon completion to help with initial costs - normally linked to new build homes.
Shared ownership
Where you buy a share of a property and pay rent on the remainder – with the option to purchase more shares over time.
Builder or developer incentives
Often offered on new-builds to reduce your upfront costs - there are often ways to work directly with the developer to tailor the deal and explore additional mortgage options.
Joint borrower, sole proprietor mortgages
Sometimes called “income booster” - allowing a parent or family member to support your income without being named on the property
Zero deposit (100%) mortgages
Available in specific circumstances – such as where you've been renting for a period of time and can show a consistent payment record. These are subject to stricter eligibility criteria and affordability checks.
Looking to get more information on your first mortgage?
LET'S talk about your options
Our team are here to help.
Visa requirements can vary, and the best way to find out what you qualify for is to speak with an adviser. We’ll explain what documentation is needed and help you create a strong application that gives you the best chance of success. We work with clients across the UK, and virtual appointments are always available.