To qualify for a mortgage in the UK, you must be at least 18 years old, have a regular and provable income, and pass affordability and credit checks. Most UK lenders assess your income stability, debt-to-income ratio, and credit history to determine how much you can borrow.

Permanent UK residents generally have access to the widest range of products, while foreign nationals, visa holders, and expats may face additional requirements. Lenders also evaluate employment type — whether you’re employed, self-employed, or a company director — and your deposit size. Meeting these core criteria is key to securing a suitable mortgage offer.