The Immigration Rules published on March 14, 2024 implemented updates to the UK’s Family visa income requirements have introduced some important changes and clarifications.
This mainly involved the increase of the financial requirement from £18600 per year to £29000 per year. Initially, it was announced that higher income thresholds would apply to both initial applications and extensions. However, the Home Office later clarified that these higher thresholds will only apply to first-time applicants.
For those who are already on the family route, what are referred to as ‘transitional arrangements will apply. Subsequently, this entails that transitional arrangements apply to those who had already secured or applied for a Family visa before April 11, 2024. For individuals on the fiancé(e), proposed civil partner, or five-year partner routes, the minimum income requirement (MIR) of £18,600 per year will continue to apply. This remains true for their initial visa application, any subsequent extensions, and applications for settlement, provided they apply to stay with the same partner.
What the Future May Bring
A statement by Labour Home Secretary Yvette Copper gave the following information – The Family Immigration Rules, including the Minimum Income Requirement, need to balance a respect for family life whilst also ensuring the economic wellbeing of the UK is maintained. To help ensure we reach the right balance and have a solid evidence base for any change, I will commission the MAC (Migratory Advisory Committee) to review the financial requirements, in the Family Immigration Rules. The Minimum Income Requirement is currently set at £29,000 and there will be no further changes until the MAC review is complete. The MAC has been asked to report in June 2025. Any changes are only likely to affect first-time applicants.
Counting Income for Visa Applications
For initial visa applications from outside the UK, only the sponsor’s income can be counted towards the minimum income threshold of £18,600 or £29,000. However, for visa extensions and applications for permanent residence, both the applicant’s and the sponsor’s incomes can be combined. Typically, applicants need to provide evidence of having earned the required income for the past six months.
Options for Meeting the Minimum Income Requirement
There are alternative ways to meet the income requirements for those who do not earn the minimum income. Amongst these are the use of personal savings. Applicants can use savings above £16,000 to help meet the requirement. This entails that a couple with no relevant earnings from other sources would need a lump sum of £88,500 to meet the threshold entirely through savings for a first-time application. It’s important to note that applicants generally need to have maintained the required amount of savings in their accounts for at least six months before applying.
Do you need more guidance on the family visa income requirements? Our advisers are experienced in all areas of private immigration and can represent your application to UKVI, get in touch – we would be happy to discuss options with you.
