Accord Mortgages Now Offers 90% LTV for Foreign Nationals and Accepts Universal Credit Income

Accord Mortgages Introduces Inclusive Lending Criteria for 2025

Accord Mortgages, one of the leading UK mortgage lenders, has announced key changes to its residential mortgage lending criteria.

As of September 2025, the lender now allows up to 90% loan-to-value (LTV) for applicants without Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR). In addition, Accord will now accept Universal Credit as an eligible form of income in its affordability assessments.

Key Product and Lending Criteria Updates

• Increased LTV to 90% for both joint and single applicants where no applicant holds Indefinite Leave to Remain, provided at least one applicant has a minimum income of £50,000.
• Universal Credit accepted as a source of income for affordability checks across Accord’s residential mortgage range.

These criteria apply to home movers, first-time buyers, those remortgaging, and clients seeking further or additional borrowing. This update provides greater flexibility and access for a broader range of UK borrowers, especially those with more complex backgrounds or non-traditional income streams.

What the New Criteria Mean for Borrowers

• Foreign National Borrowers: Accord now considers applications up to 90% LTV for both individuals and joint applicants where no one holds ILR, as long as one applicant earns £50,000 or more. This is a major increase from previous caps, offering higher borrowing limits than many other lenders for this applicant group.
• Universal Credit Income: Accepting Universal Credit as a valid source of income widens the scope for clients who receive government support. This can improve affordability outcomes for first-time buyers, lower-income applicants, and those with fluctuating earnings.

Who Benefits Most from These Changes?

• First-time buyers and home movers with foreign national status or uncertain visa arrangements.
• Clients relying on Universal Credit to supplement their income, including families, single parents, and those in part-time or gig-economy employment.
• Remortgage applicants with complex income sources or recent changes in residency status.

Special Features and Highlights

• Market-leading LTV for foreign nationals: Accord’s 90% LTV offer stands out compared to many lenders, who often restrict borrowing to 75-85% for those without ILR.
• Inclusive affordability assessment: The addition of Universal Credit brings Accord in line with flexible, modern underwriting standards, recognising today’s varied income profiles.
• Same competitive product range: These criteria changes apply across all of Accord’s residential mortgage options, not just specialist products.

Why Choose Accord Mortgages?

• Flexibility and inclusivity: Accord demonstrates a commitment to common-sense lending, responding to real-world challenges faced by UK borrowers.
• Experience with specialist cases: Their willingness to lend at high LTVs for those without ILR and to clients on Universal Credit makes Accord a top choice for complex or non-standard mortgage cases.
• Strong broker relationships: Accord works closely with intermediaries to find tailored solutions for every applicant scenario.

Take the Next Step

If you’re unsure how these changes might help your mortgage application, or if you want to see how Accord’s criteria compare with the wider UK market, contact our expert mortgage brokerage team today. We can assess your eligibility across all lenders and find the best deal for your unique circumstances.

• Call us now on 02392 006428 for free, no-obligation mortgage advice in the UK.
• Use our online comparison tools to see today’s best mortgage rates and latest deals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Who qualifies for the 90% LTV without ILR at Accord Mortgages?
  Applicants (single or joint) without Indefinite Leave to Remain can apply for up to 90% LTV if at least one earns a minimum of £50,000. Other standard affordability and credit criteria apply.
• Does Accord Mortgages accept Universal Credit as income for all mortgages?
  Yes, Universal Credit is now accepted as eligible income for affordability on all residential mortgage applications.
• How do these updates impact my home purchase or remortgage?
  Higher LTV and broader income criteria mean you could borrow more, or qualify when previously declined, especially if you are a foreign national or receive Universal Credit.
• How can I check if I qualify for an Accord mortgage?
  Contact a mortgage adviser or use our online tools for a tailored eligibility check based on your circumstances.
• Is Accord suitable for specialist scenarios?
  Yes, Accord excels with complex cases, including applicants with non-standard income or residency.