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 as the rest of your profile shows stability. In this guide, we’ll explain how it works, what documents you’ll need, and how to boost your approval chances.
What Counts as a Fixed-Term or Temporary Contract?
A fixed-term or temporary contract usually means:
- A job with a set end date (e.g. 6–12 months)
- NHS bank or locum shifts
- Contract or agency-based roles
- Zero-hour contracts or seasonal work
This is common in healthcare, education, construction, and IT, especially for those on visas working in the UK for the first time.
Can You Get a Mortgage with a Fixed-Term Job?
Yes. Some lenders specialise in supporting applicants with non-permanent contracts, even if:
- You’ve been in the role for less than 6 months
- You’re on your first UK job
- You’ve switched contracts recently
What matters most is:
- Proof of ongoing income
- A history of contract renewal or future contracts lined up
- Evidence of demand in your profession (e.g. NHS staffing needs)
Need more guidance? See our: Step-by-Step Mortgage Approval Process for Foreign Nationals
What About NHS Bank or Zero-Hour Contracts?
These are accepted by certain lenders, especially when:
- You have at least 3–6 months of regular payslips
- You can show a consistent income pattern
- You’ve been working for the same NHS Trust or agency
Lenders will average your monthly earnings or request a reference from your employer or agency confirming your hours and role.
What Documents Will I Need?
To apply for a mortgage on a fixed-term or temporary contract, you’ll typically need:
- A valid passport and visa or BRP
- Your employment contract
- 3–6 months of UK payslips
- Bank statements showing your income
- A letter confirming contract renewal or continuity (if available)
For NHS staff, a Trust letter or reference from HR can also help.
How Can I Improve My Approval Chances?
Even if your contract is short-term, you can improve your chances with:
- A larger deposit (10%+ helps, but 5% can still work)
- Joint application with a partner who has permanent employment
- A strong UK credit file (or at least no adverse history)
- Visa with 12+ months remaining or a clear path to renewal
Want to understand how deposit size affects your case? Read: How Much Deposit Do Visa Holders Need for a UK Mortgage?
What Is a Gifted Deposit Letter?
Lenders will require a letter confirming the deposit is a gift. This should include:
- The name and relationship of the person gifting the money
- The amount gifted
- A statement that the funds are not repayable
Confirmation that the gift giver won’t have a legal claim to the property
Final Thoughts: Stability Isn’t Only About Contracts
Being on a fixed-term or temporary contract doesn’t mean you’re financially unstable. Lenders know that today’s workforce, especially among foreign nationals — looks different. With a clear income trail, relevant documents, and the right support, homeownership in the UK is absolutely achievable.
At First Time Finance, we work with foreign nationals on all types of contracts — including bank staff, locums, and contractors, to help them get mortgage-ready.
Unsure where you stand?
Book your mortgage call today and we’ll help you explore your options with no pressure.
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