Bluestone Mortgages has relaxed its lending criteria to include non-UK nationals who have yet to obtain indefinite leave to remain but have demonstrated long-term stability through residency and employment in Britain.  

The specialist lender, part of Shawbrook Retail Mortgages, says that applicants working in the UK on a skilled worker or health & care visa may now qualify for residential mortgages at up to 90% loan-to-value, subject to the following criteria: 

• At least 12 months of UK residency 

• A valid UK work visa with a minimum of six months remaining 

• A minimum gross annual income of £50,000 

Retail Mortgages at Shawbrook commercial director Steve Griffiths says: “We’re committed to evolving our criteria in ways that reflect the real lives of today’s borrowers, including those who are contributing to the UK economy but can face unnecessary obstacles to homeownership.  

“These updates help to open the door to customers who are building their futures in the UK and contributing to key sectors of the economy, yet often face limited mortgage options.  

“It’s about recognising financial stability in a broader context and giving brokers greater flexibility to serve a wider client base.”