building credit for US expat

nickscarlett

I am a US citizen just starting a 3 year visa in the UK, with the intention of staying indefinitely. I am interested in building my UK credit score as I understand it does not transfer from the US.

In the MSE Credit Club FAQs, it says I must have UK addresses for the last three years (which I don't). Are there other ways to access my score? (I have a Monzo debit account, an EE mobile contract, and a BT internet contract, all just started in the last few months).

I am interested in building my credit score primarily for a mortgage in the next few years. Any information here on how UK credit score impacts down payment and/or borrowing rate on mortgages would be appreciated as well!

[Deleted User]

Scores aren't used in the UK like they are in the US, so ignore those. They're mostly fictional and not used by lenders at all.

Lenders will be looking for good account management - so don't miss payments, minimise the debt you're carrying, clear any credit cards in full each month.

We have three CRAs you'll need to check - via MSE Credit Club, Noddle and Clearscore.

gionnetto

nickscarlett wrote: »

In the MSE Credit Club FAQs, it says I must have UK addresses for the last three years (which I don't). Are there other ways to access my score?

Experian, as ClearScore and Noddle won't be able to assist you before the 3 year mark.

[Deleted User]

Alex_Mtgs wrote: »

Lenders aren’t necessarily credit scoring you. They want to ensure they can pick you up on a search in the UK. if you are applying for a mortgage they want to make sure you’re not still abroad trying to achieve a low rate UK mortgage. Without definite leave to remain you are likely to be restricted to 75% loan to value. If you are applying for a long term visa you could achieve 80-90% loan to value. Foreign income is also accepted depending on which one. I wouldn’t stress too much on a credit score just ensure nothing is missed and that you can be found on a credit file.

Ignore the credit score altogether would have been the better and shorter advice

[Deleted User]

gionnetto wrote: »

Experian, as ClearScore and Noddle won't be able to assist you before the 3 year mark.

Although the Noddle is now defunct and are now Credit Karma