If you live in the UK on a dependant visa, you may be wondering whether you can purchase a home. The short answer is yes—dependant visa holders are legally permitted to buy property in the UK.
Key Takeaways:
- Dependant visa holders can legally buy property in the UK.
- Getting a mortgage may be more complex due to visa length, financial history, and employment.
- Property ownership does not grant immigration or residency rights.
- A larger deposit, stable income, and good credit history increase approval chances.
- Working with a specialist mortgage broker is strongly advised.
What is a UK Dependant Visa?
A UK Dependant Visa allows spouses, partners, and children under 18 to join a primary visa holder in the UK. This visa is typically linked to individuals on Skilled Worker Visas, Student Visas, and other eligible categories.
Dependants may live, work, and study in the UK, but their status is entirely dependent on the main visa holder’s legal stay. If the main applicant’s visa is curtailed, expires, or is revoked, the dependant’s right to remain may also end.
Important: Time spent on a dependant visa may count towards Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), depending on the specific visa category.
Can Dependant Visa Holders Buy Property in the UK?
Yes, foreign nationals—including dependant visa holders—can legally purchase residential or investment property in the UK. There are no legal ownership restrictions based on immigration status.
However, buying property with a mortgage is a different matter. Most UK lenders require you to meet specific financial, credit, and immigration criteria. Some of the challenges include:
- Short visa durations
- Limited UK credit history
- Higher deposit requirements
- Income verification challenges
Tip: Buying with cash is more straightforward, but still subject to identity and anti-money laundering (AML) checks.
Check Also: Skill Development for UK Dependant Visa Holders
Factors Affecting Mortgage Eligibility:
Mortgage lenders assess several key factors:
1. Visa Type and Duration:
- Many lenders require at least 12–24 months remaining on your visa.
- Some may only lend to those on certain visa categories (e.g. Skilled Worker vs Visitor).
2. Deposit Size:
- UK citizens often qualify for 5–10% deposits.
- Foreign nationals may need to put down 25–30%.
3. Credit History:
- Lenders will check your UK credit history.
- Thin or no credit file may limit options—consider building credit with a UK credit card or utility bills.
4. Employment and Income:
- Proof of stable employment (payslips, contracts) or self-employment documents is critical.
5. Lender Policies:
- Not all lenders offer mortgages to non-UK residents or temporary visa holders.
- Use brokers like Habito, L&C, or Trussle that specialize in expat lending.
6. Joint Applications:
- Applying with a spouse who has Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) or British citizenship may open more options.
Important Note: Property Ownership Doesn’t Provide Residency Rights
Buying a home in the UK does not influence your immigration status. Home ownership does not:
- Provide permanent residency or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
- Strengthen your visa application
- Shorten your pathway to settlement
Always consult a regulated immigration adviser before making decisions based on long-term residency.
Documents Needed to Buy Property:
To buy a property in the UK (with or without a mortgage), you’ll typically need:
- Proof of Identity: Passport and Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
- Visa Status Evidence: Copy of dependant visa and conditions
- Proof of Funds: UK bank statements for the past 3–6 months
- Proof of Income: Payslips, tax returns, or employment contracts
- UK Address Verification: Utility bill, council tax bill, or tenancy agreement
- Credit History Report: Experian, Equifax, or Credit Karma UK
- Solicitor Details: Required to handle conveyancing (must be SRA-regulated)
Application Process:
- Assess Your Eligibility: Check visa duration, income, and credit history.
- Speak to a Specialist Broker: Get pre-qualified and compare lenders.
- Gather Documents: Ensure all visa and income proof is ready.
- Get an Agreement in Principle (AIP): A pre-approval letter from a lender.
- Start House Hunting: Set a budget based on your AIP.
- Make an Offer: Once accepted, your solicitor begins due diligence.
- Apply for a Mortgage (if applicable): Provide final documents to your broker/lender.
- Exchange Contracts & Complete Sale: Sign final papers and transfer ownership.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Applying for a mortgage with too little time left on your visa
- Failing to build a UK credit history in advance
- Not budgeting for stamp duty, legal fees, and surveys
- Assuming ownership will help immigration outcomes
- Working with brokers or solicitors unfamiliar with visa holders
Need Expert Advice?
At Spouse Visa Lawyers, we specialize in helping families navigate dependant and spouse visa requirements, including long-term planning for housing and settlement. Whether you’re applying for a visa extension or preparing to buy a home, our expert advisers are here to help.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can a dependant visa holder legally buy property in the UK?
Yes, there are no legal restrictions preventing a dependant visa holder from purchasing property in the UK, whether for personal use or investment.
Can I get a mortgage as a dependant visa holder in the UK?
It is possible, but more challenging. Some UK lenders offer mortgages to non-UK residents and visa holders, but they may require a higher deposit (typically 20–40%) and proof of income.
Do I need to be a permanent resident or British citizen to buy a house in the UK?
No, you do not need to be a permanent resident or citizen. Non-residents and visa holders, including those on dependant visas, can legally purchase property.