What Documents Do You Need for a UK Mortgage on a Visa?

Key Findings

Visa holders can get a UK mortgage, but must provide specific documentation.
Lenders typically ask for proof of ID, bank statements, deposit evidence, payslips, or SA302s.
Requirements vary: some lenders insist on at least 12 months left on your visa.
Large or unusual deposits must be explained with supporting evidence.
Family help towards deposits requires a gifted deposit letter.
Self-employed and contractors face extra requirements such as SA302s, company accounts, or CIS certificates.
Using platforms like MortgagX speeds up the process with open banking and credit checks.

Buying a home in the UK on a visa is a major milestone, but it often raises questions about paperwork and eligibility. Skilled Worker Visa holders and other foreign nationals commonly ask: “What documents do I need for a UK mortgage application?”

Having the right documents ready can mean the difference between a smooth mortgage approval and frustrating delays. This guide gives you a clear checklist of what lenders usually request.

1. Proof of Identity

Visa holders must show they have the right to live and work in the UK:

Passport
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) or copy of visa stamp
Home Office share code (sometimes requested)

2. Bank Statements

Used to review your income and spending.

Usually 3 months required, sometimes 6 months.
PDF downloads are fine.
With MortgagX , statements can be shared instantly via open banking.

3. Proof of Deposit

3 months of bank statements showing savings.
Evidence for any large one-off deposits (e.g., sale of a car or jewellery).

4. Gifted Deposit Letter

A letter confirming the contribution from family is a gift, not a loan.

If anyone over 17 years old will live in the property, a signed consent letter may be required.

6. Payslips and Employment Proof

Normally 3 months’ payslips, but sometimes 6 months.
Bonus/commission income may need 1–2 years of evidence.
A P60 may also be requested.

Case Study: A Sri Lankan Skilled Worker Visa holder working in hospitality had irregular payslip dates. A high-street lender rejected him, but we found a specialist lender who accepted the application after receiving an employer’s letter confirming payment practices. This allowed him to buy a family home close to work and school.

7. If You’re Self-Employed

SA302 tax forms from HMRC (last 2 years).
Or company accounts from a certified accountant.

👉 Unsure? Speak to our sister company WIS Accountancy .

8. Contractors

Contract workers may need 6 months to 2 years of contract history.
lenders Plus their past work history
A Curriculum vitae or Resume

9. CIS Workers

Provide CIS certificates to prove your income and tax status.

10. Proof of Address

Examples include:

Utility bill
Council tax bill
Bank statement with your address

11. Credit Report (Sometimes)

Some lenders check your UK credit report.

With MortgagX , this can be automated.

Why This Matters for Visa Holders

Visa holders face more checks because lenders need reassurance about:

Stable income
UK residency status
Valid deposit source

For Skilled Worker Visa applicants, lenders also confirm:

Certificate of sponsorship (CoS)
Occupation code
Employer licence status

FAQs: UK Mortgage Documents for Visa Holders

1. Do I need Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) to get a UK mortgage?

No. Many lenders accept Skilled Worker, Spousal, and Tier 2 visas without ILR, if you meet income and deposit requirements.

2. Can I get a mortgage with less than 1 year left on my visa?

Some lenders require 12 months left, but others may be flexible if renewal prospects are strong.

3. How much deposit do visa holders need for a UK mortgage?

Typically 10–25%, though some foreign nationals with excellent credit have secured mortgages with only 5%.

4. Will my overseas credit history help?

No. UK lenders usually only assess your UK credit history.

5. Can self-employed visa holders get a mortgage?

Yes, but lenders typically need 2 years of SA302s or company accounts.

6. How much can I borrow as a foreign national on a visa?

Use our mortgage calculator to estimate your borrowing potential.

7. Can foreign nationals get a buy-to-let mortgage?

Yes, but requirements are often stricter, with higher deposits and proof of rental income.

8. Do visa holders need a UK bank account?

Yes. You’ll need a UK account for your salary and mortgage repayments.

Final Word

At WIS Mortgages, we understand the unique challenges visa holders face when applying for a UK mortgage. Whether you’re on a Skilled Worker Visa, Spousal Visa, or Tier 2 Visa, our advisers are here to guide you step by step and our service is always fee-free.

Call us on 020 3011 1986 today and begin your UK homeownership journey with confidence.

As a mortgage is secured against your home, it may be repossessed if you do not keep up with repayments.

Important FCA Warning

As a mortgage is secured against your home, it may be repossessed if you do not keep up the mortgage repayments.

Important Information

Your home may be repossessed if you fail to make repayments on your mortgage. This guide is for general information purposes only and does not constitute financial or mortgage advice. Always seek independent, regulated advice based on your individual circumstances. Product availability, eligibility criteria, and terms are subject to change. The information is accurate as of September 2025.