The share of foreign-owned buy-to-let (BTL) companies in the UK is on the rise, as research from Together revealed that one in five newly incorporated BTL companies in 2025 (up to August) were set up by overseas investors.
This was a notable increase from just 13% in 2016.
The research revealed that South Asian and African investors were driving much of this growth.
Indian nationals were the most prominent, establishing 684 new companies, while Nigerian investors followed closely with 647 incorporations.
Together’s data further revealed that it advanced over £16.5m to foreign investors between September 2024 and August 2025.
On average, £1.38m was lent each month, with the typical loan size standing at £139,032.
The findings come ahead of the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement, where the Government is expected to outline new tax measures for the property sector.
One proposal reportedly under consideration is the introduction of National Insurance contributions on rental income, from which landlords are currently exempt.
Ryan Etchells, chief commercial officer at Together, said: “Non-UK nationals now account for one in five newly established rental property companies in the UK, a notable increase from 13% in 2016.
“This really highlights growing international confidence in the UK’s buy-to-let market, despite successive changes in tax and regulation, and economic turbulence.
“Foreign investors provide a much-needed injection of capital at a time when UK domestic investment is constrained, helping to ease pressure on the private rental market and support housing supply. Considering that the UK is still falling short of its annual homebuilding targets, this funding can play a key role in addressing rental demand.”
She added: “Over the past year, Together has lent between £1 million and £1.5 million a month to foreign investors, enabling them to grow their portfolios here. London has traditionally been seen as the best city for foreign investment, yet in recent years we have seen dramatic growth around the rest of the country.
“For example, in the East and West Midlands and in Scotland, foreign ownership has more than doubled since 2016.
“This diversification benefits communities nationwide, spreading economic activity beyond the capital, supporting local jobs and providing homes. Ultimately, foreign investment is not just about property ownership, it shows there is confidence in the UK’s legal and financial systems, and can be a real benefit to our struggling rental market.”
