Gen H says the findings point to systemic criteria gaps that are locking out a large and growing group of prospective homeowners.

When asked to identify the biggest obstacles to placing foreign national mortgage applications, brokers were largely aligned in their frustrations.

Of the challenges listed, 51.3% of respondents said low maximum loan-to-values (LTVs), 47.8% said fewer lender options and 43.9% said restrictive criteria on eligible visa types.

Other challenges included restrictive criteria on time remaining on the visa, which was noted by 31.1% of respondents and restrictive criteria on time in the country was cited by 30.7%.

Higher rates, thin credit files and minimum income thresholds were also highlighted as significant barriers.

Gen H’s analysis of available criteria across the market finds the average maximum LTV for foreign nationals sits at just 85% and only then if the household earns around £75,000 or more.

Below that income threshold, the maximum LTV falls further.

The survey was completed by 295 brokers on Gen H’s panel between 11 and 20 May 2026.

Gen H chief commercial officer Pete Dockar says: These findings are revealing because they illustrate how slow the industry is to change. We’ve had four years to prepare for the maturation of this cohort, and yet there has been little to no criteria improvement at the Big 6 lenders.”

“The impression lingers that this group is inherently riskier than people who were born here, but that is simply not our experience. What is true is that too many big lenders have lending policies that are a decade out of date. From a credit risk perspective, we believe anyone with a track record of sustainable income and affordability should have the opportunity to access homeownership.”