| Key Points |
|---|
| The minimum income threshold for dependent visas is rising, reaching £38,700 by early 2026. Stricter English language requirements will apply to all adult dependents at various stages. Discretionary exceptions under human rights grounds will be replaced by a clearer legal framework. |
UK Dependent Visa Rules
The UK Government is introducing a significant overhaul of the UK Dependent Visa Rules, as outlined in its latest immigration White Paper. The goal is to reduce net migration, promote better integration, and increase public trust in the immigration system.
These changes directly impact spouses, partners, and other family members applying to join their loved ones in the UK.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what’s changing and how it might affect applicants.
1. Increased Minimum Income Requirement
As expected, one of the most substantial updates to the UK Dependent Visa Rules is the increase in the minimum income threshold for sponsoring a partner through the family migration route.
| Effective Date | Minimum Income Requirement |
| Pre-April 2024 | £18,600 |
| From April 2024 | £29,000 |
| By Early 2026 | £38,700 |
The new income thresholds will apply to:
- British citizens and settled persons sponsoring partners
- Skilled workers sponsoring dependents
This change is intended to reflect the average UK salary and ensure financial self-sufficiency without relying on public funds.
2. Tougher English Language Requirements
In a move to emphasize integration, the UK will introduce graduated English language requirements for all adult dependents—whether accompanying workers, students, or family route sponsors.
New English Language Levels:
- Entry to the UK: CEFR Level A1 (basic everyday communication)
- Visa Extension Stage: CEFR Level A2 (routine interaction skills)
- Settlement (ILR): CEFR Level B2 (upper-intermediate fluency)
This represents a major shift, especially with the settlement requirement increasing from B1 to B2, potentially necessitating formal language instruction for many.
3. Shift from Discretionary to Statutory Decision-Making
Another notable change in the UK Dependent Visa Rules is a move away from broad, discretionary decisions based on Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR).
Instead, the UK plans to implement a statutory framework that clearly defines when leave can be granted outside the Immigration Rules. The objective is to make immigration decisions more predictable and consistent by limiting individual discretion.
While vulnerable applicants—such as those with British children or facing insurmountable barriers to relocating—may still qualify for exceptions, the overall system will become more rules-based and restrictive.
What These Changes Mean for Applicants
These reforms are reshaping the UK’s family migration landscape. Families looking to reunite or settle in the UK will face:
- Higher financial hurdles
- More demanding language requirements
- Stricter evidential and procedural rules
As the new policies phase in, early legal advice, careful financial planning, and timely language preparation will be essential for a successful application.
Conclusion
The UK Dependent Visa Rules are entering a new era—one that places greater responsibility on applicants to demonstrate financial stability, language proficiency, and integration readiness. These changes underline the UK Government’s broader strategy to tighten family migration and promote sustainable, cohesive communities.
Read here more about the new immigration rules for other routes: