From 11 April 2024, the UK will be increasing the income a sponsor needs to provide.
The minimum income requirement for spouse visa applicants is anticipated to rise as follows: from £18,600 to £29,000 in April 2024, from £29,000 to approximately £34,500 in late 2024, and from £34,500 to around £38,700 in early 2025.
Under current immigration regulations, sponsors of spouse visa applicants (i.e., the UK-based partners) are required to have an annual income of £18,600. Those with children must also meet additional financial criteria, including £3,800 per year for the first child and £2,400 per year for each additional child. The income threshold can be met through various means such as employment, self-employment, pensions, savings, and non-work income (e.g., property rental or dividends).
It’s crucial to note that when initially applying for a spouse visa, only the income of the UK-based partner (i.e., the sponsor) is considered.
What can I do?
If you intend to file for a spouse or family application, you need to do so before April 11, 2024. This is the advice we give our clients who are currently filing this application with us.