Moving to the UK on a Skilled Worker visa is exciting — but when it comes to buying a home, the process can feel overwhelming. You may have already heard that without indefinite leave to remain (ILR) or permanent residency (PR), most lenders will want a 25% deposit. And yes, that’s true for some.
But here’s the part many people don’t realise: not every lender works that way. In fact, it’s possible to get a mortgage with as little as 5% deposit, depending on your circumstances. The challenge is knowing which lenders are flexible, and which ones will put up barriers.
Specialist mortgage brokers deal with these cases every day, and guides from Strive Mortgages and The Mortgage and Protection Hub explain why shopping around is so important. Some banks take a very cautious stance, while others are far more open to Skilled Worker visa applicants.
So what do lenders actually look at? Let’s break it down.
Deposit Requirements
• The cautious lenders – Want 25% if you don’t hold ILR/PR.
• The flexible lenders – Will accept as little as 5% if you meet other conditions (like income and visa stability).
💡 Remember: deposit funds need a clear audit trail. If they’re coming from abroad, most lenders want them in a UK account for at least six months before application.
Time Spent in the UK
Your residency history makes a difference:
• Some lenders don’t have a minimum requirement.
• Others want you to have been here for three years.
• The strictest require five years.
Even if you’re new to the UK, the right lender may still consider you — especially with a strong job contract and deposit.
Credit History and Score
There isn’t a fixed “pass mark,” but a healthy credit history helps:
• Pay bills on time.
• Keep credit use low.
• Avoid payday loans or defaults.
• Build up history with a bank account, mobile contract, or credit card.
If your UK credit profile is short, you can offset that with a bigger deposit.
Visa Type and Length
✅ Commonly accepted: Skilled Worker, UK Ancestry, long-term work visas.
❌ Commonly declined: Student visas, short-term visas, refugee status.
Visa length also matters: some lenders want at least 6 months remaining, while others are flexible if your overall profile is strong.
Sole vs Joint Applications
• Joint with a British/ILR partner – Lenders are usually more lenient.
• Sole application – Still possible, but criteria may be tighter.
Income Requirements
High earners sometimes get more flexibility. Some lenders ease their residency restrictions if your annual income is:
• £75,000+
• £100,000+
This can widen your options significantly.
How to Improve Your Chances
• Secure a permanent job contract.
• Build credit history in the UK.
• Save a larger deposit if possible.
• Keep a clear audit trail of savings, especially if from overseas.
• The longer you’re in the UK, the easier it gets.
• Work with a mortgage broker who knows Skilled Worker cases.
Final Thoughts
Getting a mortgage on a Skilled Worker visa is absolutely possible — even if you don’t have ILR or PR yet. Yes, some lenders will demand a 25% deposit, but others are far more flexible. Your deposit size, income, visa, and credit profile all play a role.
The key is understanding what different lenders look for and positioning yourself in the best possible light. That’s why expert advice — and the right lender choice — can make all the difference.
