Last updated: 23 October 2026

Many British expats want to keep a foot on the UK property ladder, whether to rent out their home, buy an investment or have somewhere to return to. Getting a mortgage while living abroad is possible, but fewer lenders offer it, and the rules differ from standard mortgages. This guide explains UK expat mortgages in 2026.

This is general information, not financial advice. Mortgage products and criteria change often. Speak to a regulated mortgage adviser about your situation. Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments.

What lenders look for

• Deposit: usually 25% or more for buy-to-let, sometimes less for residential.
• Income: proof of earnings, and lenders may only accept certain currencies or countries.
• Country of residence: some countries are restricted or excluded.
• Credit history: a UK credit history helps; keep a UK bank account and address if possible.
• Rental cover: for buy-to-let, the expected rent usually needs to cover 125%–145% of the mortgage payment at a stress-tested rate.
• Age: many lenders have maximum ages at the end of the term.

Keeping your home: consent to let

If you already have a residential mortgage and plan to let your UK home while abroad, you must tell your lender. Letting without permission can breach your mortgage terms. Options:

1. Consent to let: a short-term permission, often 6–24 months, sometimes with a fee or a higher rate
2. Remortgage to an expat buy-to-let: a longer-term solution if you are staying away

Tax and costs to plan for

• Rental income is taxed in the UK under the Non-Resident Landlord scheme. See UK tax for expats.
• Stamp Duty: non-UK residents pay a surcharge on top of standard Stamp Duty in England and Northern Ireland, plus the additional property surcharge if you own other homes.
• Capital gains: non-residents must report UK property sales to HMRC within 60 days.
• Letting agents: most expat landlords use a managing agent, typically 10%–15% of rent.

How to get the best expat mortgage

1. Use a specialist expat mortgage broker, because many products are only available through brokers.
2. Prepare documents: passport, proof of overseas address, 3–6 months of payslips and bank statements, tax returns and employment contracts.
3. Consider currency: match your income currency to your payments, or plan how you’ll move money.
4. Compare total cost, not just the rate: fees, early repayment charges and the reversion rate.
5. Plan for your return: check if the product can move to a residential mortgage when you come back.

Related: moving back to the UK and moving abroad checklist.

Frequently asked questions