In a surprising turn of events, the Home Office has announced revisions to the minimum income requirement for spouse, partner, and family visas. Initially proposed to increase from £18,600 to £38,700 in Spring 2024, the revised threshold now stands at £29,000. Rosanna Atkinson, our Legal Associate, provides insights into the implications of this change and strategic considerations for those navigating the evolving landscape of UK family visas.
Revised Minimum Income Requirement Unveiled
Less than three weeks after the initial announcement, the Home Office revealed a scaled-back adjustment. The new financial threshold of £29,000 will replace the originally proposed £38,700 for partner and family visas, effective Spring 2024. Additionally, there will no longer be a separate child element to the minimum income requirement.
What Families Need to Know
While full details of transitional provisions will be disclosed next year, key points have been outlined in an official Home Office Fact Sheet:
- Existing family visa holders will continue to be assessed against the current £18,600 income requirement when extending their stay or settling in the UK.
- Applications made before the increase in Spring 2024 will also be evaluated against the current £18,600 requirement.
- Fiance visa holders, granted before the new threshold, will face assessment based on the existing £18,600 income requirement when applying for a family visa.
- New applicants post-increase, those switching from a different route, and those without an existing family visa will be subject to the new £29,000 minimum income requirement.
Strategic Considerations for Applicants
While the £29,000 threshold is a relief compared to the proposed £38,700, it still surpasses the average UK working salary, potentially affecting numerous couples. Applicants concerned about meeting the new requirement are advised to explore options:
- Apply for a spouse, partner, or fiance visa before Spring 2024, when the new minimum income requirement comes into effect.
- Seek legal advice for potential exceptions to the financial requirement, considering the complexity of such applications.
Staged Increase: Future Financial Requirement
The government has clarified that the £29,000 threshold is part of a staged increase. While the new requirement will be implemented in Spring 2024, the plan is to further raise it to £38,700 in early 2025. Whether this proposed increase will come into effect hinges on future political developments, with the next general election due by January 2025.
Stay informed and plan accordingly. For a more detailed examination of these changes and expert guidance on your specific situation, read our comprehensive blog post here.
Note: This information is based on the latest available details and may be subject to further updates.
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