Mortgages · Specialist

Based abroad, buying in Britain? There's a lender for that.

An expat mortgage is for someone living or working overseas who wants to buy, remortgage or let a property in the UK. Specialist lenders accept foreign-currency income, offshore day rates and overseas employment, provided your deposit, credit footprint and country of residence fit their criteria. As a whole-of-market, FCA-authorised brokerage, we place British expats and overseas-based contractors — including oil, gas and offshore workers.

Reviewed by Mohammed KhanCeMAP · Director · Last updated
residential mortgage illustration for Expat mortgages — Smart Mortgage Solutions

Who expat mortgages are for

They suit British nationals working abroad, contractors on overseas or offshore assignments, and people paid in a foreign currency who want UK property. Lenders assess your income, residence country, currency and UK ties — some are far more flexible than others, which is where broker access matters.

Foreign and offshore income

Many lenders accept salary or day rate in major currencies (USD, EUR and others), sometimes trimming the figure to allow for exchange movement. Offshore rotation workers are well catered for — see oil, gas & offshore contractors and foreign national contractors.

Expat buy-to-let and remortgage

Buying a UK rental from abroad, or remortgaging one you already own, is common for expats. Lenders assess the rental on a stress test and your overseas income for any shortfall. See buy-to-let and portfolio landlord mortgages.

Building a strong expat application

A larger deposit (often 25%+), a maintained UK credit footprint, a recognised employer or currency, and residence in a well-regarded jurisdiction all widen your options. We tell you exactly which lenders fit today.

Talk to an expat specialist

Speak to an adviser with your residence, currency and income details for a tailored plan.

Expat and specialist lenders — a selection

Common questions

Expat Mortgages, answered

Can a British expat get a UK mortgage?+

Yes. Specialist lenders offer mortgages to expats using overseas or foreign-currency income, typically with a larger deposit and some UK credit footprint.

Will lenders accept my foreign currency income?+

Many do, in major currencies, though some reduce the assessed figure to allow for exchange-rate movement. Choice narrows for less common currencies.

How big a deposit do expats need?+

Often from around 25%, though a strong profile or UK rental income can help. A larger deposit improves rates and choice.

Can I remortgage a UK property while living abroad?+

Yes, several lenders offer expat remortgages, including on buy-to-lets, subject to their residence and income criteria.

Does my country of residence matter?+

Yes. Lenders favour certain jurisdictions and may decline sanctioned or high-risk countries. We match you to lenders that accept where you live.

An overseas postcode is no barrier to a UK home — let's find your lender.

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