Article Overview
The financial requirement is the part of the UK spouse or partner visa that causes the most refusals. The rules are detailed: it is not only how much you earn, but which income counts, for how long, and how you prove it. This guide explains the main points for couples where the sponsor is British or settled in the UK and the applicant is in Pakistan, the UAE or elsewhere.
The minimum income requirement
Since April 2024, the minimum income requirement for new partner applications is £29,000 a year. A planned rise to higher levels was paused while the Migration Advisory Committee reviewed the rules, so £29,000 is the figure that currently applies to new applications. Couples who already held permission under the old £18,600 rules can usually continue on those rules when they extend.
Whose income counts?
The income of the UK-based sponsor always counts. The applicant's income from employment counts only if the applicant is already in the UK with permission to work. If the applicant is applying from Pakistan or the UAE, their overseas salary normally does not count towards the requirement, although it can support the overall credibility of the relationship and plans.
Income sources you can use
- Salaried employment in the UK: the most common source. Different rules apply depending on whether the sponsor has been with the same employer for at least six months.
- Self-employment: usually assessed on the last full financial year, with tax returns and accounts.
- Director of a limited company: salary and dividends from the company, with company accounts and tax documents.
- Non-employment income: for example rental income or dividends from investments.
- Pensions: state, occupational or private pensions.
- Cash savings: on their own or combined with income.
Category A and Category B in simple terms
If the sponsor has worked for the same employer for at least six months and currently earns at least £29,000 a year, they usually apply under Category A with six months of payslips and bank statements. If they have been with their employer for less than six months, or their income varies, Category B looks at both current salary and earnings over the last 12 months. Choosing the right category is one of the most important decisions in the application.
Using savings
Savings can be used to meet the requirement, either fully or to make up a shortfall. The rules require savings above a base amount of £16,000 to be held for at least six months. To meet the requirement with savings alone, the total must be much higher than the income figure, because the calculation spreads the savings over the length of the visa. Savings must be in cash and accessible, and their source must be clear.
Exemptions
If the UK sponsor receives certain disability or carer's benefits, the minimum income requirement can be replaced with an adequate maintenance test. Exceptional circumstances can also be considered where a refusal would breach the right to family life, but this is assessed case by case and should not be relied on as a plan.
Evidence you will need
- Payslips covering the required period.
- Bank statements showing the salary paid in.
- An employer letter confirming role, salary, length of employment and contract type.
- For self-employment or directors: tax returns, company accounts and business bank statements.
- For savings: six months of statements and evidence of where the money came from.
The rules on specified evidence are strict. Missing documents or the wrong period can lead to refusal even when the income is high enough.
Common mistakes
- Counting overtime, bonuses or allowances in the wrong way.
- Using the applicant's overseas income when it cannot count.
- Payslips and bank statements that do not match.
- Recent large deposits in savings without explanation.
How ZANS Consultants can help
We check which category fits your situation, calculate the income or savings needed and prepare the specified evidence. Learn more about our UK Spouse Visa service and our family visa services, or book a consultation.
General information only: family visa financial rules change. Check the current GOV.UK guidance and Appendix FM before you apply. The Home Office makes the final decision on every application.
