Skipton International
Specialist LenderSkipton International is the Channel Islands-based subsidiary of Skipton Building Society, specialising in UK residential mortgages for British expats, offshore workers, and Channel Islands residents. They are one of the few lenders actively serving the expat mortgage market.
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About Skipton International
Skipton International Limited is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Skipton Building Society, one of the UK's largest building societies. Based in Guernsey in the Channel Islands, Skipton International was established to serve customers who live and work outside the UK but wish to own property in England, Scotland, and Wales. The bank is regulated by the Guernsey Financial Services Commission and holds a full banking licence in Guernsey.
Skipton International has carved out a strong position in the UK expat mortgage market, a niche that many mainstream lenders have withdrawn from due to the complexity of overseas income verification and regulatory requirements. The bank serves British expats working around the world, including those in the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and the Americas. They also provide mortgages to Channel Islands residents purchasing UK buy-to-let properties and to offshore contractors.
The bank's underwriting team has developed deep expertise in assessing income earned in foreign currencies, understanding overseas tax regimes, and navigating the complexities of international employment contracts. Skipton International offers both residential and buy-to-let products, with competitive rates considering the specialist nature of the lending. The bank benefits from the financial strength of its parent, Skipton Building Society, while maintaining the flexibility to serve a market that most UK lenders overlook.
Lending Focus
Skipton International offers mortgage products across 3 categories including Residential, Buy-to-Let, Expat.
Key Features
- UK mortgage products specifically designed for British expats worldwide
- Expertise in assessing foreign currency income and overseas employment contracts
- Both residential and buy-to-let products for expat borrowers
- Channel Islands based with Guernsey banking licence
- Backed by Skipton Building Society for financial stability
Pros & Cons
Pros
- One of the most established and trusted expat mortgage lenders in the market
- Accepts income earned in a wide range of foreign currencies and countries
- Backed by Skipton Building Society providing strong funding stability
- Accepts both direct and broker applications giving borrowers flexibility
Cons
- –Maximum 80% LTV — lower than mainstream UK lenders
- –Not suitable for borrowers with adverse credit
- –Regulated in Guernsey rather than by the FCA — different consumer protections apply
Fees & Charges
- Arrangement Fee
- Typically £995 — varies by product
- Valuation Fee
- Based on property value — usually £250–£1,500
- Early Repayment Charge
- Typically 2–4% during fixed-rate period
- Overpayment Allowance
- Up to 10% per year on most products
Mortgage Rates
Rate data coming soon. View rates on Skipton International
Application Process
- Processing Time
- 3–5 weeks from application to offer
- Online DIP
- Yes — available online
- Offer Valid For
- 6 months
Lending Criteria
- Maximum LTV
- 80%
Frequently Asked Questions
Can British expats get a UK mortgage through Skipton International?
Is Skipton International part of Skipton Building Society?
Does Skipton International accept foreign currency income?
Can I apply directly to Skipton International or do I need a broker?
How to Apply
Direct & broker access. Apply directly or via a broker for whole-of-market access. Find a broker
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Important: Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage. Information on this page is for general guidance only and does not constitute financial advice. Always verify lender details directly and seek independent advice before making financial decisions.