Is Spouse Visa Financial Requirement Increasing From £29,000 to £38,700?

As of March 2025, the UK’s minimum income requirement for spouse and partner visas remains at £29,000. This threshold was established in April 2024, following an increase from the previous £18,600. The Conservative government had outlined plans for further incremental increases, aiming for £34,000 later in 2024 and reaching £38,700 by early 2025. However, these subsequent hikes have been paused pending a comprehensive review.

Background of the Financial Requirement

The minimum income requirement (MIR) was introduced to ensure that individuals sponsoring a non-UK spouse or partner could financially support their family without relying on public funds. From 2012 until April 2024, this threshold was set at £18,600. In April 2024, it was increased to £29,000 to address concerns about high net migration and to align with the median UK salary.

Current Status and Review

Upon taking office in July 2024, the Labour government commissioned the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) to review the financial requirements for family visas. Home Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized the need to balance the UK’s economic well-being with respect for family life. The MAC’s review includes assessing the current MIR level and its implications. The committee is expected to report its findings in June 2025, during which time the MIR will remain at £29,000.

While there were initial plans to increase the spouse visa financial requirement to £38,700 by early 2025, these have been suspended pending the outcome of the MAC’s review. The current threshold remains at £29,000, with any future changes contingent upon the committee’s recommendations and subsequent government decisions.