Understanding the Financial Requirements for a UK Spouse Visa

If you are married to, or in a civil partnership with, a British citizen or someone settled in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a UK Spouse Visa. This visa allows you to live, work, and eventually settle in the UK with your partner. However, one of the key parts of the application process is meeting the financial requirement, which proves that you and your partner can support yourselves without relying on public funds.

The Minimum Income Requirement

As of 11 April 2024, the minimum income threshold for a Spouse or Partner Visa is £29,000 per year (gross).This threshold applies to both:

• Applicants applying from outside the UK to join their partner, and

• Those extending their stay from within the UK.

The financial requirement can be met through one or more of the following:

1. Employment or self-employment income - showing that the sponsoring partner (or both partners) earn at least £29,000 per year before tax;

2. Cash savings - holding at least £88,500 in savings if there is no income; or

3. A combination of income and savings, where savings can be used to make up any shortfall.

It’s important to note that income must come from lawful, verifiable sources such as employment, self-employment, or pension income.

Using Savings to Meet the Requirement

Applicants can rely entirely on cash savings if their total savings meet the £88,500 threshold, or combine savings with income to reach £29,000.To qualify:

• The savings must be in a current, savings, or investment account that is regulated by a recognised financial authority;

• The funds must be held for at least six consecutive months before the application date;

• The money must be under the control of the applicant or their partner and cannot be borrowed;

• The source of the savings must be clearly explained and evidenced (for example, from property sales, inheritance, or gifts from family members).

To calculate how much of your savings can be counted towards the requirement:

1. Identify the lowest balance held in your account over the six months before the application.

2. Subtract £16,000 (this portion is disregarded).

3. Divide the remaining amount by 2.5.

The result represents the amount of annual income your savings are equivalent to under the rules.

Example Calculation

If you have £40,000 in savings:

• £40,000 – £16,000 = £24,000

• £24,000 ÷ 2.5 = £9,600

This means your savings can be treated as equivalent to £9,600 of annual income. Therefore, if your combined earnings are £19,400, you would meet the £29,000 requirement (£19,400 + £9,600 = £29,000).

Important Considerations

• Both partners’ income and savings can be combined, provided the evidence meets UKVI standards.

• Financial documents must clearly show names, account numbers, dates, balances, and the issuing bank’s details.

• The Home Office requires bank statements, payslips, and employment letters as proof.

• If you are self-employed, additional evidence such as tax returns, business accounts, and invoices may be required.

Meeting the financial requirement is one of the most crucial-and often complex-parts of a UK Spouse Visa application. Even small documentation errors can lead to delays or refusals.

If you’re unsure how to calculate your income or savings, or what evidence is acceptable, our immigration advisers can guide you through every step of the process-from document preparation to submission.

For expert help with your UK Spouse Visa or Partner Visa application, contact us for a professional consultation.