Mortgages for Civil Servants

Civil servants are ideal mortgage applicants for many lenders, thanks to their low risk jobs and high income rates. If you are a civil servant, your application will generally be a smooth process. 

Whether you’re an experienced civil servant or have recently started a new civil servant role, we can help you secure the right mortgage.

What classes as a civil servant for a professional mortgage?

A civil servant includes anyone who is employed in a UK government department or specialist agency. 

Those who work in local authorities, the NHS, police servants or employed by Parliament are not classed as civil servants, but do have mortgages to meet their individual needs.

Examples of civil servants include those who work in the following UK government departments:

  • Ministry of Defence 
  • Prime Minister’s office 
  • Cabinet office 
  • Department of Transport
  • HM Revenues and Customs

Do civil servants get better mortgages?


Whilst civil servants don’t have their own specific mortgage that they can apply to, they are viewed in a favourable light by mortgage lenders thanks to their job role. Civil servants are typically viewed by lenders as low risk borrowers, since they have a steady stream of income and a secured job, and so they may be offered some form of professional mortgage. 

There isn’t a specific civil servant mortgage that offers a discount, and it instead refers to the way in which lenders offer specialist criterias rather than a form of discount.

Are there any mortgage schemes for civil servants in the UK?

There are no specific schemes available for civil servants in the UK

How to get a mortgage for civil servants

The first thing you will need to do when you’re applying for a mortgage as a civil servant is establish what type of mortgage is available to you. Typically, you will be able to apply for fixed rate, variable rate and even interest-only mortgages, as well as specialised mortgages such as buy-to-let

Speaking to experienced mortgage advisors, such as our specialists at Barlow Irvin, will help you to determine which mortgage is right for you.

The next step will require you to fill out a form for a civil servant’s mortgage. This will need to include:

  • Your name
  • Contact details
  • Address
  • Employment status
  • Salary
  • Any other information you think will be useful

Once the form is complete, you will need to send it off to the lender, who will usually ask for ID and additional documents depending on their requirements. The lender will then review your application, but this could take a few weeks to do so. 

Once you have received confirmation from your lender you will need to provide evidence of your income through payslips and bank statements. You may also be required to provide proof of your assets. This can include things like savings accounts, bonds or other investments you may have. 

Your lender will also likely want to look at your credit score, as any lender would, regardless of if you’re a civil servant or not. 

If everything is provided correctly, and the lender feels confident you are a good mortgage applicant, you should be ready to proceed with the final steps. 

How much can a civil servant borrow for a mortgage?

The amount civil servants can borrow for a mortgage depends on the affordability criteria set by the mortgage lenders. Even if you are working in a civil service role, you will still need to go through your lender’s criteria checks.

Once these checks are approved, you can expect to borrow up to 80% of your property value, depending on your individual circumstances.

FAQs about Civil Servant Mortgages

Can I get a civil servant mortgage with bad credit?

Yes, you can still get a civil servant mortgage even if you have a bad credit rating. 

You should always consult with a mortgage broker for guidance before you start your mortgage application process.

What is the maximum age for a civil servant mortgage?

Age restrictions will vary between lenders but the general rule of thumb amongst most mortgage lenders is that applicants must be 18 years old. 

This applies for everyone, not just civil servants. However as a civil servant, you are less likely to be rejected for your age than other applicants. 

Can I get a civil servant mortgage in the UK if I am posted abroad?

Yes, even if you are posted abroad, you can still get a civil servant mortgage in the UK, but not all lenders will approve the mortgage application. 

If you are wanting to apply for a mortgage while abroad, be sure to check with each mortgage provider before you decide to put in an application.

Direct Your Visitors to a Clear Action at the Bottom of the Page

E-book Title