Getting Started
Can I get a mortgage if I haven't lived in the UK long?
Last reviewed: 3 October 2026
The brief answer
Possibly. Each lender sets its own rules on residency status, visa type, time in the UK and UK credit history. Some lenders are more flexible than others, which is why a mortgage adviser who knows the market is often helpful.
In plain English
Lenders want to understand your stability in the UK. They may ask about your right to live here, how long you have lived and worked in the UK, your employment history and your UK credit record. Requirements differ between lenders and can change.
A short UK credit history is common for people who have recently arrived. Credit reference agencies record how you manage UK credit, such as bank accounts, phone contracts and credit cards. Paying bills on time and avoiding missed payments helps build a positive record over time.
Being on the electoral register can help credit checks, but not everyone is eligible to register. If you are not eligible, tell your adviser — lenders can verify your address in other ways.
A larger deposit, stable employment and clear records of your savings can widen your options, but there is no guarantee. Only a lender can decide whether it will lend to you.
Why it matters
Applying to an unsuitable lender can lead to a decline and an extra credit search on your file. Understanding criteria first saves time and protects your credit record.
What to do next
- 1Check your credit reports with the main UK credit reference agencies and correct errors.
- 2Gather proof of your status, address history, employment and savings.
- 3Speak to an FCA-authorised mortgage adviser and explain your situation fully.
Checklist
- I have checked my UK credit reports
- I can show my right to live in the UK
- I can show my employment history
- I can show how my deposit was saved