What documents do I need to apply for a mortgage in the UK?

Thinking about getting a mortgage, but not sure what paperwork you need? You’re not alone. This is one of the most common (and confusing) questions we hear from clients.

In this article, we’ll break it down into a clear, simple checklist: whether you’re employed, self-employed, buying with family, or new to the UK.

1. What most lenders will ask for

No matter your situation, most UK lenders will want to see:

• Proof of ID (passport or residence card).
• Proof of address (utility bill or bank statement).
• Proof of income (this depends on how you work — more on that below).
• 3–6 months of bank statements.
• Credit report (optional, but helpful).

Tip. Documents should be recent, consistent, and in English (or officially translated).

2. If you’re employed.

You’ll likely need to show:

• 3 months of payslips.
• A recent P60 form (your end-of-year tax summary).

If you’re on a probation period or short-term contract, mention it early: it won’t always block approval, but it’s better to be upfront.

3. If you’re self-employed or freelance.

Here’s what most lenders expect:

• 1–2 years of SA302s (tax calculations from HMRC).
• 1–2 years of tax year overviews.
• Business accounts or accountant’s letter.
• Evidence of current contracts or regular income.
• Ltd company accounts or accountants reference.
• CIS (Construction Industry Scheme) can sometimes be assessed using latest 3–12 months subcontractor payslips.
• If a day rate contractor, evidence of contracts.

Smart City Mortgages works with lenders who can assess even one year of income, helpful for newer freelancers

4. If you’re buying with someone else.

Each applicant will need to provide the same documents. Plus: be prepared to explain where the deposit is coming from (savings, gift from family, etc.).

If someone is gifting part of the deposit, they’ll need to sign a gift letter confirming the funds don’t need to be repaid

5. What if I’m new to the UK?

It’s still possible to get a mortgage. You’ll need:

• Valid visa or settled status.
• A UK bank account.
• Proof of regular income.
• Deposit funds (can be from abroad, with source proof).
• Settlement status share code (to evidence your visa status and rights to live and work in the UK).

Smart City Mortgages has experience helping non-UK nationals — in their own language.

6. What can you send online?

Through our secure client portal, you can upload documents, track your application, and message our team. All in one place, in your own language. No printing. No scanning. No confusion.

7. Mistakes to avoid

• Missing pages in bank statements.
• Documents in other languages without translation.
• Uploading old or inconsistent files.
• Not declaring gifted deposits.

Smart City Mortgages has experience helping non-UK nationals — in their own language.

Ready to move forward?

Knowing what to prepare is the first step. We’re here to walk you through the rest. In plain English, or your native language.

Book a free consultation, or start with our 60-second mortgage repayment calculator.