Stamp Duty for Overseas Buyers in the UK: 2026 Rates Explained
Stamp duty is the single biggest upfront cost most overseas buyers underestimate on a UK purchase — and the surcharges that apply to non-residents buying a second property stack, they don't replace each other.
This Banke guide sets out exactly what you'll pay in 2026.
The Standard Bands
Since the nil-rate band reverted from £250,000 back to £125,000 in April 2025, standard SDLT in England and Northern Ireland runs: 0% up to £125,000, 2% from £125,001–£250,000, 5% from £250,001–£925,000, 10% from £925,001–£1.5 million, and 12% above £1.5 million.
The Non-Resident Surcharge
A flat 2% surcharge applies on top of the standard bands if you weren't present in the UK for at least 183 days in the 12 months ending on completion day. This is separate from, and stacks with, the additional-property surcharge below.
The Additional-Property Surcharge
Buying a second home, including buy-to-let, adds a further 5% surcharge on top of every band — increased from 3% by the Autumn 2024 Budget, effective from 31 October 2024.
What It Adds Up To
An overseas buyer purchasing a second UK property can face a combined 7-percentage-point surcharge on top of the standard rate — up to 19% total (12% top band + 5% additional property + 2% non-resident) on the portion of a purchase above £1.5 million. On a joint purchase, if even one buyer is non-resident, the non-resident surcharge applies to the whole transaction, not just that buyer's share.
Talk to Banke
Contact Banke for a stamp duty estimate on a specific property before you make an offer.