NatWest offers a fairly wide range of UK mortgages for expats.

But how well do NatWest expat mortgage rates compare to other banks and lenders on the market? What about international building societies, specialist expat lenders and private banks?

Spoiler alert: it varies on a case-by-case basis depending on the below:

• Your country of residency
• How much you’re looking to borrow
• What loan to value you need
• What loan to income ratio you’re looking to borrow at
• Your income details (employed, self employed, contractor etc.)
• The currency you earn in
• Where in the UK you’re buying and the type of property
• When you’re applying (banks update their rates regularly, so the best option often depends on who has the lowest rates at the time)
• And more…

If that’s a slightly overwhelming list, you may wish to speak to an expat mortgage broker like ourselves.

We know the expat mortgage market like the back of our hands, and we advise clients on their best options every single day. We can actively compare rates from Santander, HSBC, Skipton BS, and many more international mortgage lenders for you, and present you with your best options.

Then, we walk you through your application step by step, until you have your keys in hand.

To book a free, no-obligation call with one of our advisers, get in touch today.

In the rest of this guide, we look specifically at NatWest’s expat mortgages, covering eligibility criteria, loan options, application process, and everything else you need to know.

Case Studies

What Is a UK Expat Mortgage?

A UK expat mortgage is a specialized home loan designed for individuals who are living and working outside of the UK. Unlike standard residential mortgages, expat mortgages take into account the unique financial circumstances and challenges faced by expatriates, such as fluctuating exchange rates, foreign income sources, and the potential for frequent relocations.

Why Choose a NatWest Expat Mortgage?

NatWest is a well-established and respected bank with a strong presence in the UK and international markets. They’re a huge, reputable bank that you can trust, and they have generally good customer service and all the frills that come with a major bank.

But generally speaking, the weakness with major banks when it comes to expat mortgage is their flexibility.

In short, they aren’t very flexible.

If your application isn’t watertight and fairly ‘standard’, you’re not unlikely to be declined. NatWest have so much business coming through the doors every day, they can afford to decline applications that are going to be too complicated or risky for their books. On the other hand, specialist lenders in the market can take a more holistic view of certain applications and generally understand the expat market better, offering more flexible options – and often at a cheaper price.

Eligibility Criteria for NatWest Expat Mortgages

To qualify for a NatWest expat mortgage, you’ll need to meet certain eligibility criteria. Here are some of the key requirements:

Nationality and Residency

NatWest expat mortgages are available to UK nationals and residents who are currently residing and working abroad. The bank may also consider applicants with permanent residency rights in the UK.

Employment and Income

You’ll need to have a stable and verifiable income source from employment or self-employment. NatWest typically requires a minimum income level, which can vary depending on your specific circumstances.

Credit History

As with any mortgage application, NatWest will review your credit history to assess your creditworthiness. A good credit score and a clean credit report will increase your chances of approval.

Deposit and Equity

NatWest typically requires a minimum deposit or equity stake in the property you wish to purchase or remortgage. The exact amount can vary, but it’s generally higher for expat mortgages compared to standard residential mortgages.

NatWest also have a fairly limited scope for countries of residence they can accept applications from:

• Bahrain
• Bermuda
• Canada
• China
• Denmark
• France
• Germany
• Hong Kong
• India
• Kuwait
• New Zealand
• Norway
• Oman
• Qatar
• Singapore
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• United Arab Emirates
• United States of America

*Updated 07.04.2024

Types of NatWest Expat Mortgages

NatWest offers a range of expat mortgage products to cater to different needs and preferences. Here are some of the most common types:

Fixed-Rate Expat Mortgages

With a fixed-rate expat mortgage, your interest rate remains constant for an agreed-upon period, usually ranging from two to five years. This option provides stability and predictability, allowing you to budget more effectively.

Variable-Rate Expat Mortgages

Variable-rate expat mortgages, also known as tracker mortgages, have an interest rate that fluctuates based on the Bank of England’s base rate or another benchmark rate. While these mortgages may offer lower initial rates, they come with the risk of rate increases over time.

Buy-to-Let Expat Mortgages

If you’re an expat looking to invest in a rental property in the UK, NatWest offers buy-to-let expat mortgages. These mortgages are designed specifically for those who plan to generate rental income from the property.

The NatWest Expat Mortgage Application Process

Applying for a NatWest expat mortgage can be a straightforward process if you have all the necessary documentation and meet the eligibility criteria. Here’s a general overview of the application process:

Pre-Approval

Before formally applying, it’s advisable to seek pre-approval from NatWest. This involves providing basic information about your income, employment, and the property you’re interested in. Pre-approval can give you a better understanding of how much you can borrow and the potential interest rates.

Documentation

NatWest will require a range of documents to support your application, including:

• Proof of identity (passport, driving license)
• Proof of residency and employment (contract, pay slips, employer’s letter)
• Income verification (tax returns, bank statements)
• Credit report
• Details of the property (valuation report, title deeds)

Application Submission

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can submit your expat mortgage application to NatWest. This can be done online, through a NatWest branch, or with the assistance of a mortgage broker.

Underwriting and Approval

NatWest’s underwriting team will review your application and supporting documents to assess your eligibility and creditworthiness. If approved, you’ll receive a formal mortgage offer detailing the terms and conditions.

Property Valuation

NatWest may require a professional valuation of the property you wish to purchase or remortgage. This is to ensure that the property’s value aligns with the loan amount requested.

Completion

After accepting the mortgage offer and completing any remaining tasks, such as securing insurance and finalizing legal paperwork, your NatWest expat mortgage will be ready for completion. At this point, the funds will be released, and you can proceed with the property transaction.

Tips for a Successful NatWest Expat Mortgage Application

To increase your chances of securing a NatWest expat mortgage, consider the following tips:

Improve Your Credit Score

A strong credit score is essential for any mortgage application. Before applying, review your credit report and take steps to improve your score if necessary, such as paying off outstanding debts or correcting any errors.

Gather Comprehensive Documentation

Ensure that you have all the required documentation ready before starting the application process. Incomplete or missing documents can lead to delays and potentially jeopardize your application.

Consider Using a Mortgage Broker

Navigating the expat mortgage landscape can be complex, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the UK property market. Consider using the services of a reputable mortgage broker like UK Expat Mortgage, who specializes in expat mortgages and can guide you through the process. Their expertise can help you compare rates across lenders, including NatWest, and secure the best mortgage deal for your specific circumstances. In fact, for some NatWest expat mortgages, they’ll only accept applications if you’re working with a regulated mortgage broker, like ourselves.

Maintain a Stable Income

NatWest places a strong emphasis on stable and verifiable income sources. If you’re self-employed or have a variable income, be prepared to provide additional documentation and justification for your earning potential.

Consider Your Long-Term Plans

Before applying for an expat mortgage, carefully consider your long-term plans and the potential for future relocations or changes in your circumstances. This can help you choose the most suitable mortgage product and avoid unnecessary fees or penalties down the line.