In today’s blog update, we’ll be Navigating the New Financial Thresholds for UK Family Visas. So stay tuned and read the full blog so you don’t miss any updates.
The landscape of UK immigration is undergoing significant changes, with a recent hike in the income threshold for family visas. Effective from April 11, 2024, the minimum financial requirement for family visas has seen a substantial increase from £18,600 to £29,000, with a planned escalation to £38,700 in early 2025.
New Financial Requirements
The UK’s Home Secretary has implemented these measures as part of a broader strategy to curb migration and overhaul the immigration system. This adjustment represents a more than 55% increase in the minimum salary requirement, impacting both new applicants and those seeking to extend their stay.
For new applicants, such as those applying for entry as a spouse, the financial burden now relies heavily on the British sponsor’s income to meet the visa requirements. For those extending their stay or seeking indefinite leave to remain, joint finances with the British partner can also be considered.
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Calculating Your Financial Eligibility
To meet these new requirements through employment income, an individual must demonstrate an annual income of at least £29,000. This figure remains constant regardless of the number of dependent children included in the application—a significant shift from previous rules.
Alternatively, for those relying on cash savings, the threshold is set at a steep £88,500. However, for indefinite leave to remain applications, the required savings drop to £45,000.
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Impact on Existing Visa Holders
Importantly, individuals currently in the UK on a family visa before April 11, 2024, will be grandfathered under the old financial threshold of £18,600 for their subsequent visa extensions along the five-year settlement route.
For families with dependent children, the financial requirement increases by £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each additional child, with a cap of £29,000. This cap simplifies the financial demonstration for large families, previously escalating beyond this amount.
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Final Thoughts
These changes mark a significant shift in the UK’s approach to family migration, aiming to ensure that immigrants are financially self-sufficient while tightening the paths to long-term settlement. Prospective and current visa holders must carefully assess their financial standings against these new thresholds to ensure compliance and successful visa applications. As always, when dealing with complex immigration changes, consulting with an immigration expert is advisable to navigate the new rules effectively.
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