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Applying for a spouse visa requires a deep understanding of the financial tapestry accompanying a Spouse Visa application. In our exploration of “What are the Spouse Visa Financial Requirements?” we delve into the essential details that will give you a better understanding of the financial element of a spouse visa.
What Is a Spouse Visa?
Before diving into the financial requirements, let’s briefly review a spouse visa. A spouse visa allows individuals to join their partner or spouse who is settled in the UK or a British citizen. This visa category falls under the family route and is designed to keep families together in the UK.
Updated Spouse Visa Financial Requirement (2025)
One of the central elements of a spouse or partner visa application is demonstrating that you and your partner meet the financial requirements set by the Home Office. These requirements are designed to ensure that the sponsoring partner can adequately support the applicant (and any dependents) without relying on public funds.
Key Components of the Financial Requirement (2025)
Minimum Income Threshold: £29,000
From 11 April 2024, the minimum income requirement for first-time spouse or partner visa applicants increased to £29,000 per year.
This threshold applies whether or not children are included in the application.
If First Application Was Before 11 April 2024
Applicants who submitted their initial partner or spouse visa before this date remain on the previous financial rules when applying for extensions or settlement with the same sponsor.
Under these rules, the minimum annual income remains £18,600, with additional income required for children.
Children/Dependents Under the Old Rules
For those on the older route, extra income is required if children are applying as dependents:
• +£3,800 for the first child
• +£2,400 for each additional child
Savings Option
Savings can be used in place of, or in addition to, income to meet the financial requirements.
To rely solely on savings, applicants generally need at least £88,500 held consistently for a six-month period.
Smaller amounts of savings can be combined with employment or other forms of income.
Non-Employment Income
Income from self-employment, pensions, rental properties, dividends, or other investments can also count towards the financial requirement.
These can sometimes be combined with employment income or savings to reach the threshold.
Third-Party Support & Exemptions
Certain applicants may be exempt from meeting the minimum income threshold if the sponsor receives specific benefits. In such cases, an “Adequate Maintenance” test applies instead.
In limited circumstances, human rights considerations may also be taken into account where strict financial requirements cannot be met.
What’s Changed Since April 2024
| Requirement | Before April 2024 | After April 2024 (Current Rule) |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Income Threshold | £18,600 (plus child additions) | £29,000 flat (no child additions) |
| Extensions/ILR for older cases | Still £18,600 (plus child additions) | Remains under old rules |
| Savings requirement | Lower | Higher (around £88,500 if relying on savings alone) |
Practical Advice for Applicants in 2025
Check your route carefully: The rules you follow depend on when your first spouse/partner visa was granted.
Prepare strong evidence: Bank statements, payslips, tax returns, or business records must cover the required period.
Maintain savings consistently: If relying on savings, ensure they remain above the required amount for at least six months.
Combine income sources: Employment, self-employment, rental income, or savings may all be used together.
Seek professional guidance: If your situation is complex or close to the threshold, expert legal advice can make the difference.
Meeting the Spouse Visa Financial Requirement
Please note that immigration rules and financial requirements may change over time. It’s essential to check the most up-to-date guidance from the Home Office or consult with an immigration solicitor specialising in spouse visa applications to ensure compliance with the current requirements.
Changes in Spouse Visa Financial Requirements
Meeting the financial requirement often involves providing extensive documentation, including payslips, bank statements, tax documents, and evidence of any other sources of income. It’s crucial to provide accurate and comprehensive documentation to avoid delays or rejection of your application.
Spouse Visa Financial Requirements FAQ
From 11th April 2024, the minimum income threshold for a UK spouse visa is £29,000 per year. However, this amount can vary depending on factors such as the number of dependent children in the application.
Yes, you can combine your income with your spouse’s income to meet the financial requirement, provided that your spouse is legally present in the UK and their income is eligible.
Yes, for each dependent child applying with you, an additional income of £3,800 per year is required on top of the minimum income threshold.
Yes, savings can be used to meet the financial requirement. You must have savings of at least £16,000 plus any additional income required to reach the threshold.
Acceptable forms of income include employment income, self-employment income, rental income, dividends, and certain non-employment income sources. It’s important to provide documentation to prove the source and stability of your income. Our immigration solicitors in Bolton will be able to advise further on any other types of acceptable forms of income.
If you don’t meet the minimum income threshold, you may still be eligible through other means, such as using savings or demonstrating exceptional circumstances. Seeking advice from an immigration solicitor is advisable in such cases.
No, the financial requirement can vary depending on the specific visa category, such as spouse visas, fiancé(e) visas, or dependent visas. Be sure to check the requirements relevant to your visa type.
In certain situations, third-party financial support, such as a family member’s or friend’s financial sponsorship, may be considered to meet the financial requirement. However, there are specific rules and documentation requirements for this.
Some exemptions or reductions may apply in cases involving disability benefits, child benefits, or certain military personnel. It’s important to consult the latest immigration rules or seek legal advice for specific details.
To ensure a successful application, gather all required documentation, maintain clear financial records, and seek advice from an immigration solicitor who specialises in spouse visa applications to guide you through the process effectively.
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Spouse Visa Solicitors
If you believe you require the guidance and expertise of our spouse visa solicitors, we can assist you.
Lexadeen Solicitors, with offices in Bolton and Stoke-on-Trent, is a compelling choice for handling your spouse’s visa application needs. What sets us apart is our extensive track record and expertise in immigration law, particularly in spouse visa applications. Our client base, spanning across the UK, demonstrates our ability to effectively navigate the complexities of spouse visas regardless of your location.
The Best Spouse Visa Solicitors
Lexadeen Solicitors’ commitment to providing personalised and knowledgeable service ensures we can tailor the support to your specific circumstances, making the spouse visa application as smooth and efficient as possible. Whether you’re a resident in Bolton, Stoke-on-Trent, or any other part of the UK, Lexadeen Solicitors are regarded as the best spouse visa solicitors and can be your trusted partner in achieving a successful outcome. Call now on 01782 212903 for a free spouse visa consultation.