Skilled Worker Visa NHS Mortgage

Podcast approved by The Openwork Partnership on 26/06/2025.

Can you get a mortgage as an NHS worker on a skilled worker visa?

As an NHS employee holding a skilled worker visa, you can apply for a mortgage in the UK. There isn’t a specific NHS mortgage product or skilled worker mortgage product, but some lenders offer favourable terms for NHS staff, as this is very stable employment.

What are the eligibility requirements for getting a mortgage on a skilled worker visa as an NHS employee?

The main one is employment status. If you’ve got permanent employment within the NHS, or a fixed term contract with a history of that contract being renewed, that’s ideal.

Lenders usually require a minimum of 12 months remaining on your visa, but that’s not always the case. Having already lived in the UK for a minimum of 12 months is preferred by some lenders.

Ideally a deposit of between 5% and 10% is generally required. If you’ve got a larger deposit, that can improve your chances.

The final factor is credit history. If you’ve got a good credit history in the UK, that will give you an advantage. However, some lenders may consider your application without a good credit rating. Generally, the better your credit, the better chance you have of being approved.

Are there any age restrictions for getting a mortgage as an NHS worker on a skilled worker visa?

There’s no specific age restriction, but the term often needs to conclude before your stated retirement age. Typically that’s now 68. If you plan to work beyond this age, some lenders may consider a longer term.

But if you’re working in the NHS as a nurse, is it realistic that you’re gonna be working past age 70? It does depend on your line of work whether you can go past 68 and up to 75.

Some lenders even go to 80, but only if that’s realistic within your job role.

How much NHS work history do I need to apply for a mortgage on a skilled worker visa?

Lenders prefer applicants with at least 12 months’ employment history. However some will consider shorter periods, especially if you’ve got a permanent contract within the NHS. That gives you a stronger financial profile. It just depends what type of contract you have.

What documents are required to apply for a mortgage as an NHS worker on a skilled worker visa?

You’ll need proof of ID with a passport or driving licence, your visa documentation and proof of employment via your contract. You would also supply recent pay slips with proof of the income going into your bank, from recent bank statements.

For proof of address we need a utility bill or council tax statements, plus a copy of your credit report. As brokers, we’d want to have a look at your credit file, and lenders will always look at this.

Finally it’s deposit evidence. We need to see a buildup of your deposit or the source of a gift, if that’s where the deposit is coming from.

All lenders look at different documents. They don’t all need everything, but it’s good to know what you could potentially be asked for.

What if I have bad credit? Can I still apply for a mortgage as an NHS worker on a skilled worker visa?

Yes, you can. Some lenders offer mortgages to individuals with adverse credit history. It could be something minor like a default for a lower amount – or perhaps a higher amount. You might have a County Court Judgement (CCJ).

Each lender will view your circumstances differently. You don’t always have to go to an adverse lender if you have bad credit. But consulting a mortgage broker with experience in adverse credit can help you identify a suitable lender for your needs.

Are there any specific mortgage policies or regulations related to NHS workers with skilled worker visas?

There are no specific mortgage policies exclusively to NHS workers on a skilled worker visa. But there are three things to consider, I would say.

First is visa duration. Some lenders want at least 12 months remaining on your visa. Second is employment stability – through permanent contracts or consistent contract renewal. Then it’s credit history. Having a credit footprint and being able to maintain your accounts is going to help.

How long does the mortgage application take if you work for the NHS and are on a skilled worker visa?

To get an Agreement in Principle, it could just be a couple of hours to a couple of days, depending which lender that is submitted to.

From full application to a full mortgage offer can take a couple of days to a couple of weeks.

In some circumstances, it can take longer, depending how busy the lender is at the time. Normally, within two weeks you should have the valuation completed on the property, your documents assessed, and you’d get a mortgage offer.

It can take anywhere from eight to 16 weeks from putting an offer in on a property and submitting a mortgage application until you get the keys to your new home. It just depends.

There are a few different factors in buying property. If the person you’re buying from is also buying a property, you’re involved in a chain – you’re then at the mercy of that chain. As brokers, we help clients chase up each part of the process and get you into the property as soon as we can.

What costs are associated with getting a mortgage on a skilled worker visa?

These costs are the same as on any type of mortgage. You’d need to put a deposit down on the property – typically 5% or 10% of the property’s value.

Some lenders have fees for setting up a mortgage, and these can be classed as arrangement fees or product fees. They range from £499 to £999 – with some slightly more, and some slightly less.

Then there are valuation fees. Some lenders charge a fee for assessing the property, while others offer that for free. You also have an option to upgrade the valuation to a level two or level three homebuyer or building survey. That cost can vary depending on the property purchase price.

Then there’s legal fees. Prices again change depending on the value of the property you’re purchasing. Generally speaking, it can be anywhere between £1,500 and £2,500.

Next, there’s stamp duty. We’re recording this in April 2025, where stamp duty has just changed. At the moment, First Time Buyers don’t pay stamp duty on property up to £300,000.

Lastly, there are mortgage broker fees. Some brokers charge a fee for setting up a mortgage and using their services. The benefit is finding you a deal that you may not be able to find yourself. We also handle the whole process and help you every step of the way.

What advice or tips do you have for NHS staff who are considering applying for a mortgage on a skilled worker visa?

I have a few tips for you. Building up your credit history is key – opening a UK bank account, registering on the electoral roll if you’re eligible, using a credit card and repaying it on time… all these things can build your credit score.

Aim to secure a permanent contract or long-term NHS fixed-term contract, and save for a larger deposit. It’s a good idea to aim for 10%, even though 5% mortgages may be available. You will potentially get a cheaper interest rate with 10%, which will make your costs cheaper once you’re in the property.

Consider gathering all your documents early and speaking to a mortgage broker, even if you don’t plan to buy for another three, six or 12 months. Have a chat with us and run through the documents needed. We’ll make sure you’re on the right track to be able to purchase.

Finally, budget for all your costs. Consider the legal fees, valuation fees, stamp duty – if that’s applicable – and broker fees.

Speaking to a mortgage broker early in the process is a great help. We may be able to get you an Agreement in Principle, so you know you can achieve your goals. An Agreement in Principle is a soft search on your credit file with most lenders. It’s not going to affect your credit score, but you’ll then know that when you’re ready, you’re likely to be accepted.

You’ve demonstrated how a mortgage broker can help NHS workers on a skilled worker visa. Have you got anything else to add?

Speaking to a mortgage broker with experience in helping clients on a skilled worker visa or working in the NHS is always helpful. We’ll often have access to exclusive deals, we can match you with the right lenders and help you with documentation and application preparations.

We’ll always explain the options to you clearly. Just approach mortgage brokers who you feel have experience in this field. As always, we’d be happy to speak to anyone with any questions on this.

YOUR PROPERTY MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

Approved by The Openwork Partnership on 26/06/2025.