"With skills gaps spanning the UK’s workforce, it would be unsurprising to see a continual surge in demand for visa mortgages in the coming years."
- Chris Blewitt, head of mortgages at Darlington BS
Darlington Building Society has enhanced its support for skilled workers by removing fees from its visa mortgage range.
Over 200,000 skilled worker visas were granted in 2023, more than triple the numbers seen in 2021.
Darlington Building Society is therefore making its mortgages more accessible – and more affordable - for skilled workers by removing fees from its visa mortgages. It is also maintaining rates across the range.
Darlington's visa mortgages are available up to 95% LTV with 100% spousal visa income acceptable, no minimum time in the UK required and no credit scoring. Applicants must have two years remaining on the visa at point of application.
Chris Blewitt, head of mortgages at Darlington Building Society, said: “I’m delighted to share that we have remained committed to skilled workers. By holding rates on our visa proposition, we are supporting affordability for skilled workers, and by removing mortgage fees we hope to alleviate some of the pressure further.
“People often mention the healthcare sector when referring to skilled workers as they make up more than 60% of skilled worker visas. However, skilled workers also support the wider labour market in roles across IT, engineering, education and beyond. With skills gaps spanning the UK’s workforce, it would be unsurprising to see a continual surge in demand for visa mortgages in the coming years.
“Darlington Building Society’s purpose has remained true for 168 years - to help people achieve their dream of homeownership. We firmly believe that this should extend to a wide range of circumstances and applicants. Increasing support to skilled workers is just one example of the Society evolving and delivering its core purpose in a modern housing market.”
