Who lenders will consider
Appetite varies widely between lenders. Some lend to UK expats but not to foreign nationals, some consider most nationalities subject to their checks, and some lend only to UK companies with overseas shareholders. Lenders also restrict certain countries for anti-money laundering reasons.
Our overseas borrower bridging page lists lenders on our panel whose published criteria consider overseas or expat borrowers. Comparing them matters, because criteria differ more here than in almost any other part of the market.
What lenders check
- Identity and address, usually with certified documents, and sometimes with translations
- Source of deposit and source of wealth, showing how the money was earned and how it reaches the UK
- Country of residence and nationality
- For company borrowers, the ownership structure down to the individuals who control it
- Your UK solicitor, who will handle the funds and legal work
These checks are legal requirements on lenders and solicitors, and the documentation takes longer to assemble from abroad. Starting early is the best way to avoid delays.
Borrowing personally or through a company
Overseas investors often buy through a UK limited company, which some lenders prefer, or through an offshore company, which fewer lenders accept. Each option has tax implications in the UK and in your country of residence. See limited company and SPV bridging, and take tax advice before choosing.
Exits need extra thought. A refinance onto a UK mortgage depends on finding a lender for overseas borrowers at the end of the term, so lenders will look closely at whether it is realistic. A sale exit is often simpler to evidence.
Stamp duty for non-residents
In England and Northern Ireland, non-UK residents buying residential property generally pay a surcharge on top of the standard Stamp Duty Land Tax rates, and the higher rates for additional dwellings may also apply. The rules on residence for SDLT purposes are specific, so check the GOV.UK residential rates page, which includes the rates for non-UK residents, and take advice. Our guide to stamp duty and bridging covers the wider picture.
Preparing your case
Gather certified identity documents, proof of address, bank statements showing the deposit, and evidence of how it was accumulated. Confirm your UK solicitor early and check that they act for overseas clients. If you hold property in the UK already, details of it help.
If you or a close family member will live in the property, the loan is a regulated mortgage contract and comes with additional protections; we will tell you at the outset how your case will be handled. You can compare indicative terms on Instant Quotes.
Currency and paying interest
If your income or savings are in another currency, exchange rates affect both your deposit and, where interest is serviced, each monthly payment. Many overseas borrowers choose retained or rolled-up interest for this reason, so that no monthly payments need to be made from abroad. The trade-off is a lower net advance or a larger balance at the end; see bridging interest rates.
Lenders lend and expect repayment in sterling. If your exit is a sale or refinance in the UK, the proceeds are in sterling too, which keeps currency risk to the deposit and any costs. If your exit depends on funds from overseas, lenders will want to see how and when they will arrive, and may allow for currency movement in their assessment.
Common questions
Can a foreign national get a UK bridging loan?
Yes, a number of lenders consider foreign nationals, subject to identity, residence and source of funds checks. Some countries are restricted by individual lenders.
Do I need a UK bank account?
Not always, but it helps. Lenders and solicitors need to trace your funds, and a UK account can make servicing interest and receiving funds simpler.
Do overseas buyers pay more stamp duty?
In England and Northern Ireland, non-UK residents generally pay a surcharge on residential purchases. Check GOV.UK guidance and take advice.
This guide is for general information only and should not be treated as legal, tax or financial advice. Lender requirements depend on the property and your circumstances.
