Since April 11, 2024, the minimum income threshold for sponsoring a spouse or partner under UK immigration rules has risen sharply from £18,600 to £29,000 per year.Further increases had been signalled—potentially to £34,500 and then £38,700 in 2025—but these have been delayed following a Labour government review by the Migration Advisory Committee. The threshold remains set at £29,000 until the current review concludes, expected in June 2025.
This post provides a detailed breakdown of the current rules, the rationale behind the changes, and practical guidance for sponsors and their partners seeking to meet the financial requirement.
1. Overview of the New Income Threshold
- £29,000 gross annual income is now required for the principal applicant (the sponsor) seeking to bring a spouse or partner to live in the UK.
- This replaced the previous threshold of £18,600, which had been in place since July 2012.
- Proposals to increase the threshold to £38,700 have been paused pending the Migration Advisory Committee review.
2. Why the Threshold Has Been Raised
- The Conservative government introduced the increase in December 2023 to reduce net migration and ensure partners could support themselves without public subsidies.
- Critics, including charities and campaign groups, argue that the threshold is unfair, disproportionately affecting lower-income families, women, younger people, and those outside London.
- Reports indicate that approximately half of UK earners fall below the £29,000 benchmark and that the proposed £38,700 level would exclude as many as 70 per cent.
3. Application of the Threshold
- Only the sponsor’s income is usually considered unless the partner already has legal leave and can contribute income.
- Previously, dependent children increased the threshold (£22,400 for one child, £24,800 for two, and up to £29,000). Under the new system, if the sponsor is affected, the flat £29,000 threshold applies regardless of the number of children.
- Sponsors who first applied before April 11, 2024 retain the lower rate when applying for extensions.
4. Exceptions and Other Considerations
- Applicants in receipt of specific disability or carer benefits may be exempt from the financial requirement.
- In exceptional humanitarian circumstances or where refusal would breach human rights, applicants may proceed even if they fall below the threshold—though these cases are rigorously assessed .
- Sponsors may meet the requirement through cash savings, property income, pension income, or self-employment earnings, as defined in Appendix FM, Income Categories C–G.
5. Practical Steps for Sponsors and Applicants
- Assess income sources: Ensure the sponsor earns at least £29,000 gross annually or, alternatively, has sufficient documented savings.
- Upgrade relationship evidence: Gather strong proofs of a genuine and subsisting relationship as required by Appendix FM.
- Plan for future threshold changes: Budget for possible further increases if the MAC review results in raising the threshold beyond £29,000.
- Indefinite leave to remain remains unchanged: After five years on a spouse or partner visa, applicants may still qualify for settlement.
- Avoid dependence on exceptions: Only rely on exceptional circumstances provisions when there is a clear case, as approvals are not guaranteed.
6. The Broader Context
The increase in the spouse visa income threshold reflects broader efforts by Government to curb migration While intended to safeguard public funds, charities and community advocates have raised serious concerns about the adverse effects on family unity and child welfare .
Summary of Key Points
- The income requirement has increased from £18,600 to £29,000 since April 2024.
- Threshold applies universally, irrespective of the number of dependents.
- Ongoing review may lead to further increases; sponsors should prepare accordingly.
- Exceptional provisions exist but are difficult to secure.
- Settlement remains available after five years on the route.
Support from Your Solicitor
As a London-based immigration solicitor, we assist with:
- Evaluating and optimising financial documentation.
- Advising on alternative income sources and savings strategies.
- Preparing applications under Appendix FM or for exceptional case consideration.
- Guidance on indefinite leave to remain after five years.
Please reach out to arrange a consultation. We can provide a tailored roadmap to meet the new requirements and help you bring your partner to the UK in confidence.
