Applying for a UK Spouse Visa is an important step for couples who want to build their life together in the United Kingdom. One of the main conditions applicants must meet is the financial requirement. This rule helps the UK government make sure that couples can support themselves without depending on public funds.
What Is the Minimum Income Requirement?
To sponsor a foreign husband, wife, or partner for a UK Spouse or Partner Visa, the UK-based sponsor usually needs to show an annual income of at least £29,000. This amount is officially known as the minimum income requirement.
The rule applies to sponsors who:
- Are British citizens, or
- Have Indefinite Leave to Remain (permanent residence) in the UK
If someone is bringing their partner on a different type of visa, such as a dependent visa, the financial rules may be different.
How Did the Income Requirement Change Over Time?
The financial requirement was first introduced in July 2012 to reduce overall migration and ensure families could support themselves.
- 2012 – 2024: Minimum income was £18,600
- April 2024 – present: Minimum income increased to £29,000
The government originally planned more increases to around £34,000 and then £38,700, but these additional rises have not been confirmed or implemented.
Who Needs to Meet the £29,000 Income Rule?
Most first-time applicants after 11 April 2024 must meet the £29,000 income requirement.
However, there is an important exception:
- If someone already applied for a Spouse/Partner Visa before 11 April 2024, they will continue to follow the old £18,600 threshold for future applications and extensions.
What Income Sources Count?
Not all types of income can be used to meet the requirement. The rules can be detailed and strict.
Common sources that may be accepted:
- Salary from employment in the UK
- Self-employment income
- Certain cash savings
- Pensions
If relying on employment income:
- Usually, only the sponsor’s income is allowed
- The visa applicant’s income only counts if they are already in the UK legally, working, and switching visas or extending an existing partner visa
Because of these conditions, many couples must plan carefully before applying.
Are There Any Exceptions or Flexibility?
There are limited circumstances where the financial requirement may not apply or may be relaxed:
- If the sponsor receives certain disability-related benefits, the income rule does not apply
- In rare cases, if refusing the visa would breach a couple’s human rights (for example, separating a family), the Home Office can show flexibility
These exceptions are not guaranteed and often require strong supporting evidence.
Why Is the Policy Controversial?
The minimum income requirement has faced criticism since its introduction. Critics say:
- It unfairly affects lower-income British citizens who cannot reach the £29,000 income level
- Around half of UK workers earn less than £29,000, meaning many couples are unable to live together in the UK
- The rule affects different regions unequally, as wages vary widely across the country
- It creates strict paperwork requirements, making the process stressful
In 2017, the UK Supreme Court confirmed that the policy is lawful but required the government to allow more flexibility in certain situations.
Government Reviews and Future Changes
The policy continues to attract attention in Parliament and the media. In July 2024, when the Labour government took office, the Home Secretary asked the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) to review the income rule. The committee’s June 2025 report suggested different options, such as:
- £17,000 — just above the relative poverty line, allowing more families to be reunited
- £23,800 — similar to a full-time minimum wage salary, offering stability but limiting eligibility
However, the report did not recommend one specific threshold, and no final decision has been made yet.
What Does This Mean for Couples?
If you are planning to apply for a UK Spouse Visa, it is essential to:
- Check the latest rules before applying
- Make sure you understand which income sources count
- Prepare financial documents early
- Consider professional advice if your situation is complex
The financial requirement can be challenging, but with proper planning, many couples successfully meet the criteria.
Final Thoughts
The financial requirement is one of the most important parts of the UK Spouse Visa process. While the policy aims to ensure financial stability, it continues to be debated because of the impact on families, especially those on lower incomes. Staying informed about potential changes can help couples make better decisions about their visa journey.
Files from UK Parliament, Umer Rasib, and Visa-Guru.com