Buying a home in the UK is exciting, but for many foreign nationals the most confusing step is proving your income. You might have a good salary, savings, and a stable job, but lenders still need very specific evidence before they’ll approve your mortgage.
This guide explains exactly what you need to show, whether you’re employed, self-employed, or have multiple or overseas income sources.
Why Proving Your Income Matters
For lenders, income isn’t just about how much you earn, it’s about how reliable and sustainable that income is over the long term. Missing or unclear income proof is one of the top reasons applications are delayed or declined.
If You’re Employed in the UK
Proving your income is usually straightforward, but lenders will want:
- Last 3 months’ payslips
- Recent employment contract
- Bank statements showing your salary payments
- P60 (helpful if you earn overtime, bonuses, or commission)
- In some cases, a letter from your employer
Common issues:
- Starting a new job (some lenders require 6 months’ history, others accept 1 month)
- Variable income (bonuses/commission) – some lenders ignore it, while others use 100% if backed by your P60
If You’re Self-Employed
The key here is consistency and clear accounts. Lenders usually want at least 2 years of income history (1 year may be enough with Indefinite Leave to Remain).
Expect to provide:
- HMRC SA302 tax calculations & tax year overviews
- Certified company accounts
- Business bank statements
Common issues:
- High expenses to reduce tax bills – this lowers your provable income
- Mixing business and personal accounts – makes it harder for lenders to see true income
If You Have Multiple Jobs
Many migrants take on more than one job to boost income or save for a deposit. Lenders can accept multiple sources if:
- You have payslips for each job
- You’ve been in both roles for at least 6 months
- Bank statements confirm consistent payments
Tip: If you also have self-employment income, 2 years of tax returns can prove this.
If You Earn Income From Abroad
Foreign income can be used, but only if:
- It’s in stable currencies (USD, EUR, CAD, etc)
- Documents are translated by a certified UK translator
- Bank statements and contracts clearly show payment history
Be aware: many lenders don’t accept overseas income, but specialist lenders can.
Mistakes to Avoid
- Short-term second jobs taken only to boost affordability, not allowed
- Not including all income types (e.g., commission or side income)
- Choosing the wrong lender – not all lenders accept every income type
- DIY approach – without a broker, you risk applying to the wrong lender and facing delays or rejection
Final Thoughts: Proving Your Income the Right Way
The right documents, presented properly, can make or break your application. Income doesn’t just need to be earned, it needs to be provable and sustainable.
At First Time Finance, we specialise in helping foreign nationals structure their income correctly so they can get approved faster.
Book a mortgage call today and find out exactly how to prove your income for a UK mortgage.
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