Which UK Visas Allow You to Apply for a Mortgage in the UK?

Many foreign nationals are surprised to learn that there are multiple UK visas for mortgage eligibility, and you don’t need to wait until you have Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) to get approved. While visa type is a big factor in whether you can get a mortgage, it’s not the only thing lenders look at….
Can You Get a UK Mortgage Without Indefinite Leave to Remain?

Many foreign nationals believe they need Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) before they can even think about buying a property in the UK. It’s a common question we hear: “Can you get a UK mortgage without indefinite leave to remain?” The short answer is yes, and for most people, waiting for ILR isn’t necessary at…
UK Mortgage Requirements for Visa Holders: What You Need to Know Before Applying

If you’re living in the UK on a visa and thinking about buying a home, one of the most common questions we hear is: “What do I actually need to get approved?” Whether you’re on a Skilled Worker visa, Spouse visa, Health & Care visa or anything in between, getting a mortgage comes down to…
How UK Mortgage Overpayments Can Save You Thousands (Even as a Foreign National)

If you’re a foreign national with a mortgage in the UK, or you’re thinking about applying for one, there’s one financial strategy that could save. At First Time Finance, we’ve guided hundreds of clients through the full homebuying process and this is one of the most common blind spots. Here’s exactly what to expect and…
Hidden Costs of Buying a UK Home as a Foreign National

If you’re a foreign national getting ready to buy your first UK home, you’ve probably budgeted for the deposit and mortgage. But what catches most people off guard are the hidden costs of buying a UK home, costs that can delay your plans or create unnecessary stress if you’re not prepared. At First Time Finance,…
Should Foreign Nationals Rent or Buy in the UK?

If you’re a foreign national living in the UK, one question always comes up sooner or later: Should I rent or buy a UK home? We’ve helped hundreds of clients on Skilled Worker and Spouse visas answer this very question. You might be closer to homeownership than you think. “Everyone else said it wouldn’t work…”…
What Documents Do Foreign Nationals Need for a UK Mortgage?

If you’re a foreign national living in the UK and planning to buy your first home, one of the most important parts of the mortgage process is getting your documents in order. Lenders won’t just take your word for it, they’ll want to see official paperwork that proves your income, employment, visa status, and deposit….
How Long Should I Be Employed Before Applying for a UK Mortgage?

If you’re a foreign national living in the UK, and wondering about Skilled Worker mortgage employment requirements, you’re not alone. One of the biggest questions we hear is: how long do I need to be employed before I can get a mortgage? Minimum Employment Length: What Do Lenders Look For? Here’s a typical breakdown of…
Can I Use a Fixed-Term or Temporary Contract for a UK Mortgage?

If you’re a foreign national working in the UK on a Skilled Worker, Graduate, or Spouse visa, and your job is fixed-term or temporary, you might be wondering whether you’re locked out of mortgage options. The good news? You’re not. Many lenders are open to applicants on fixed-term, NHS bank, or temporary contracts, as long…
How to Get a UK Mortgage with a Gifted Deposit

Using a gifted deposit UK mortgage option can be a powerful way for foreign nationals on visas to step onto the property ladder sooner. Whether your family is supporting you from overseas or your partner is helping with the deposit, a gifted contribution can unlock homeownership opportunities that might otherwise feel out of reach. In…