Non-domiciled individuals (non-doms) and overseas buyers represent a significant proportion of the UK's business jet market. The UK's combination of stable legal system, specialist lenders, service infrastructure and time zone makes it a natural hub for international aircraft ownership. Financing arrangements for overseas buyers require careful structuring.
Who counts as a non-dom or overseas buyer?
For finance purposes, the key distinction is whether the borrower (or their company) is UK-based. Non-doms who are UK resident but non-domiciled, and overseas buyers who are neither UK resident nor domiciled, face different lender requirements. UK-resident non-doms are generally treated similarly to UK domiciliaries by most lenders.
Preferred structures for overseas buyers
Most overseas buyers use a UK-based SPV (special purpose vehicle) to hold the aircraft and borrow in the UK. This gives lenders a familiar UK security structure while allowing the beneficial owner to be overseas. The SPV is typically a UK limited company, with the lender taking a charge over both the aircraft and the shares.
Lender appetite for overseas borrowers
Global Jet Capital has the widest appetite for non-UK and cross-border transactions. Barclays Aviation Finance and Close Brothers will consider overseas buyers with strong UK connections. Some UK clearing banks require the borrower to be UK-resident.
Tax considerations
Non-dom status has complex interactions with aircraft ownership - particularly around remittance of funds to purchase the aircraft, UK situs of assets, and offshore income. The 2025 non-dom reform also changes the rules for long-term UK residents. Specialist aviation tax advice is essential.