Introduction
As of April 11th, 2024, the financial requirement for a UK Spouse Visa has increased from £18,600 to £29,000. This new threshold applies to anyone sponsoring a foreign partner for any UK family visa, including those covered under the Financial Requirements for UK Family Visas in 2024. This change, introduced by the UK Conservative-led government in December 2023, aimed to reduce immigration numbers. With the Labour-led government now in office, it’s uncertain whether this requirement will be adjusted further. For more details on immigration policies, you can refer to the official UK Government website.
Understanding the New Financial Requirements
The new financial requirement can cause confusion, especially if it impacts your application. Here’s a breakdown of the current financial criteria and how to meet them:
- Financial Threshold: As of April 11th, 2024, you must meet the £29,000 requirement. If you have children or other dependants, the financial threshold increases:
- For the first child: an additional £3,800
- For each additional child: an extra £2,400
Acceptable Sources of Income
You can meet the financial requirements through various sources:
- Employment Income: From both within the UK and lawful employment outside the UK.
- Savings: A minimum of £88,500 in savings can offset the income requirement.
- Pension: Both state and private pensions.
- Self-Employment: Documented profits from a business.
- Rental Income: From properties you own, excluding your main residence.
- Dividends: Consistent and verifiable investment returns.
If you’re interested in how to effectively document your financial situation, check out our post on the Essential Documents for a UK Civil Partnership Visa.
Potential Changes in 2024
Financial requirements can change, so it’s essential to act swiftly. If you apply now, you may avoid future increases in financial thresholds. Contact us to start your application or for expert advice.
Reason for Financial Requirement Increase
The increase in financial requirements was due to the UK Conservative government’s strategy to cut immigration numbers, aiming to reduce figures from over 600,000 to under 300,000, as announced by James Cleverly in December 2023.
What to Do if Your Application is Refused
If your Spouse Visa application is refused due to financial reasons:
- Understand the Refusal: Review the refusal letter for specific reasons.
- Rectify Mistakes: If the refusal was due to missing documents or errors, you might be able to reapply.
- Increase Financial Evidence: Consider ways to boost your income or savings.
- Seek Professional Advice: Consult an immigration lawyer to assess the situation and advise on the best course of action.
Benefits of a UK Spouse Visa
Holding a UK Spouse Visa offers numerous advantages:
- Right to Work: You can work or start a business in the UK without restrictions.
- Access to Education: You can attend public and private educational institutions.
- Healthcare: You can use the NHS for medical care.
- Pathway to Citizenship: After five years, you may apply for indefinite leave to remain.
For those considering bringing family members, you may also want to look into The UK Dependant Visa: A Comprehensive Guide For 2024, which provides essential information on how dependants can join you in the UK.
Additional Requirements for a Successful Application
Besides meeting the financial requirements, ensure you also meet these criteria:
- Sponsor Status and Age: The sponsor must be a British or Irish national or have settled status, and both partners must be at least 18 years old.
- Genuine Relationship: You must prove the authenticity of your relationship.
- English Language Requirement: Demonstrate basic English language skills at A1 CEFR level if applying from outside the UK. You can learn more about the CEFR language levels.
- Accommodation: Provide evidence of suitable, non-overcrowded accommodation.
Document Checklist
Ensure you have the following documents for your application:
- Passport
- Proof of Relationship
- Financial Evidence
- English Language Test Results
- Accommodation Evidence
- TB Test Results (if applicable)
- Previous Immigration History
- Sponsor’s Information
- Children’s Documents (if applicable)
- Photos
- Online Application Form
The Application Process
Follow these steps for a successful Spouse Visa application:
- Initial Preparation: Understand the visa category and requirements.
- Complete the Application Form: Accurately fill in the form online.
- Compile Supporting Documents: Gather and organise all necessary documents.
- Biometrics Appointment: Provide biometrics and a photo.
- Submit the Application: Pay fees and submit your application.
Processing Times and Fees
- Processing Time: Approximately 12 weeks from outside the UK, or up to 8 weeks from within the UK.
- Fees: £1,846 if applying from outside the UK, £1,048 from within. The annual health surcharge is £1,035. Expedited processing is available for an additional fee.
What If My Spouse Visa Is Refused?
If your visa is refused for reasons other than financial:
- Insufficient Evidence: Provide additional proof as needed.
- Application Errors: Correct mistakes and reapply.
- English Language Requirement: Fulfil the required level.
- Authenticity of Relationship: Provide more evidence if needed.
Appeals and Alternatives
If refused, consider:
- Appealing: Follow the guidelines in the refusal letter.
- Reapplying: Address refusal reasons and submit a new application.
- Alternative Visas: Explore fiancé or unmarried partner visas.
Conclusion
Navigating the new financial requirements for the UK Spouse Visa can be challenging. Understanding the detailed requirements and ensuring all aspects of your application are covered can increase your chances of success. For personalised guidance and support, contact our team of experts.
FAQS
Why Did The UK Government Raise The Spouse Visa Income Threshold?
The UK government increased the income requirement for spouse visas to reduce the number of people coming to the country.
What is the New Minimum Income Requirement for a UK Spouse Visa in 2024?
The minimum income requirement for a UK Spouse Visa is set to increase in 2024. In April, it will rise from £18,600 to £29,000, later in the year it will go up to about £34,500, and by early 2025, it will reach approximately £38,700. Applicants must ensure they meet these new income levels when applying.
How Substantial is the Rise in the Income Requirement?
The rise in the income requirement for a UK Spouse Visa is quite substantial. It will increase from £18,600 to £38,700, which is more than a 200% rise. The Home Office has set these new thresholds to match UK earnings at various percentiles, with the new amounts representing the 25th, 40th, and 50th percentiles for RQF3 skill-level jobs.
Will the Changes to the Spouse Visa Income Requirement Go Ahead?
Yes, the changes to the spouse visa income requirement are expected to be implemented. The House of Commons Library notes that Immigration Rule changes generally come into effect automatically unless there is an objection from the House of Commons or Lords within 40 days, which is uncommon.
Will These Changes Impact Current Spouse Visa Applicants?
No, the new income requirements will not affect current spouse visa applicants. Those who are already applying, including those who apply before the changes take effect, and children joining parents in the UK, will be assessed based on the existing criteria. This also applies to individuals on a fiancé visa who are transitioning to a spouse visa.
What Happens if You Want to Switch to a Spouse Visa While in the UK?
If you are in the UK on a different visa and wish to switch to a spouse visa, you will need to meet the new income requirement.
Will the Income Requirement Change Depending on the Number of Children?
Under the new rules, it’s not yet clear if there will be additional financial requirements based on the number of children in the application. This aspect of the income requirement is still to be determined.
How will it affect those applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
Those currently on a spouse visa applying for ILR are expected to be exempt from the new threshold. Further details will be provided in the Home Office’s “transitional provisions”.
Are There Any Exemptions to the Financial Requirements for a UK Spouse Visa?
Currently, there are no specific exemptions to the financial requirements for a UK Spouse Visa. All applicants are required to meet the minimum income threshold, which can vary based on whether they have dependents.
How Will the New Policy Impact Students Bringing Dependants to the UK?
The new policy limits the ability of most students to bring dependants to the UK. As a result, there is expected to be a significant reduction in the number of dependants who can accompany students.
Are Care Workers Allowed to Bring Family Members to the UK Under the New Immigration Rules?
The new immigration rules no longer permit care workers to bring their family members to the UK. This change was part of a larger effort to decrease net migration.
How Will the Increase in the Immigration Health Surcharge Affect Spouse Visa Applicants?
This increase will impact Spouse Visa applicants, as the new higher fee will be required for access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS).
What Should Potential Applicants Do in Light of These Changes?
If you’re planning to apply for a UK Spouse Visa, it’s advisable to consult an immigration lawyer promptly. This will ensure you understand the new requirements.
Could Changes in the UK Government Affect Spouse Visa Requirements?
Yes, the requirements for a UK Spouse Visa can change depending on the outcome of political elections. If a different political party wins and forms the government, they might implement new policies or alter existing ones, including those related to immigration and financial thresholds. This means that the current spouse visa requirements could be revised based on the new government’s stance on immigration.
