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 what UK lenders may expect:
- Minimum of 1 month: Some lenders will accept one UK payslip and a signed employment contract.
- 3–6 months: A broader range of lenders prefer at least 3 months of continuous UK employment.
- 12 months+: May be required for borrowers with complex income or newly self-employed.
If you’re on a Skilled Worker visa with a strong job offer and salary, some lenders will approve your application much sooner.
What If I’ve Just Started My Job?
If you’re newly employed, you’re not automatically ruled out. Lenders may consider:
- Your contract length (permanent, fixed-term, or zero-hours)
- Your total UK income and job role
- Time in the same industry, even if the job is new
- Your visa type and remaining time on it
In many cases, it’s better to apply with a specialist broker who understands these nuances. Some lenders are more interested in future earnings and employment potential, rather than strict time-in-role.
Does My Visa Type Affect Employment Requirements?
Yes. Skilled Worker visa holders, for example, are often considered lower risk by lenders, especially if:
- Your visa has at least 12 months remaining
- You’ve started work with a UK-registered sponsor
- You can show a valid Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) and Certificate of Sponsorship (COS)
Certain high street lenders may still decline newly arrived workers, but specialist lenders are more flexible.
Can I Apply if I Have Gaps in Employment?
It depends on the cause of the gap and how recent it was. Some lenders will still approve your mortgage if you:
- Recently switched jobs within the same industry
- Took a short break after relocating to the UK
- Have started a new contract and can show income stability
Your mortgage adviser will help you present your case in the strongest light.
Joint Applications and Employment History
If your own employment history is short, applying with a partner or guarantor can strengthen your application, especially if they have a longer UK work history or better credit profile.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Employment Length Hold You Back
You don’t always need 6 or 12 months on the job to get approved. With the right documents, guidance, and lender match, foreign nationals can often apply much sooner.
Skilled Worker visa holders, in particular, have more options than ever, some lenders are willing to approve based on your employment contract and first payslip alone.
Ready to explore your mortgage options?
Book a mortgage call with First Time Finance and we’ll walk you through your next steps.
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