One of the most crucial elements of applying for a UK spouse visa is meeting the financial requirements set by the Home Office. These rules are in place to ensure that the sponsoring partner can support their spouse or partner without recourse to public funds.
This guide will explain the updated income thresholds, the acceptable sources of income, the types of evidence needed, and which forms of income are not accepted.
Key Takeaways:
- The current minimum income requirement is £29,000.
- Acceptable income sources include: employment, self-employment, pensions, savings, and non-employment income.
- £88,500 in savings can meet the requirement if held for at least six consecutive months.
- Loans, cash-in-hand work, or income from other household members do not qualify.
- Detailed financial documentation is essential.
- The income threshold is expected to rise again later.
- Professional immigration support can increase the chances of approval.
Requirement:
The minimum income requirement for sponsoring a spouse or partner is £29,000 per year (gross).
Future Increases (Expected):
| Effective Date | Minimum Income Required |
|---|---|
| April 11, 2026 | £29,000 |
| Late 2026 (Planned) | £34,500 |
| Early 2026 (Planned) | £38,700 |
These figures are subject to change. For the latest updates, visit the official UK Government website.
Check Also: Travel Abroad on a UK Spouse Visa – Complete Guide
Accepted Sources of Income:
To meet the financial requirement, sponsors may rely on one or a combination of the following income types:
1. Employment Income (Categories A and B)
- Salaried and Non-Salaried Work
- Required Documents:
- Payslips (6 months for Category A or up to 12 months for Category B)
- Employer letter on official headed paper, confirming:
- Job title
- Start date
- Contract type
- Gross annual salary
- Personal bank statements matching the salary deposits
2. Self-Employment Income (Categories F and G)
- Sole traders, business owners, or company directors
- Required Documents:
- SA302s and HMRC tax year overviews
- Accountant’s letter confirming income
- Business and personal bank statements
3. Cash Savings (Category D)
- Must have held at least £88,500 for 6 months or more
- Required Documents:
- Bank statements showing the full 6-month holding period
- Proof of source (e.g. sale of property, inheritance)
4. Pension Income (Category E)
- UK or overseas state or private pensions
- Required Documents:
- Pension statements
- Bank statements showing regular deposits
5. Non-Employment Income (Category C)
- Includes rental income, dividends, interest, and trust funds
- Required Documents:
- Tenancy agreements or dividend certificates
- Tax returns
- Bank statements showing consistent payments
What Cannot Be Used to Meet the Requirement?
The Home Office will not accept the following:
- Cash-in-hand or undeclared income
- Loans or overdrafts
- Cryptocurrency or unverifiable assets
- Public funds (e.g. Universal Credit)
- Income from friends, family, or housemates
Income Changes After Submission:
If your income situation changes after you submit your application, notify the Home Office immediately. Failing to do so may lead to refusal or delays.
Penalties for Inaccurate or Incomplete Financial Information:
Submitting false or incomplete documents can result in:
- Visa refusal
- Ban from reapplying for 10 years
- Potential allegations of deception
Always ensure accuracy and keep copies of all submitted documents.
Need Help With Your Application?
At Spouse Visa Lawyers, we specialize in helping clients navigate complex financial requirements. Our team:
- Reviews your financial eligibility
- Advises on combining income sources
- Prepares all supporting documentation
- Ensures compliance with the latest Home Office rules
Contact us at info@spousevisalawyers.co.uk or visit www.spousevisalawyers.co.uk to book a consultation.
Final Tips:
- Double-check the current income threshold before applying
- Use only official and traceable income sources
- Keep consistent records across bank statements, payslips, and employer letters
- When in doubt, seek professional advice
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can savings be used instead of income?
Yes. If the sponsor (or applicant) cannot meet the income threshold, they can rely on cash savings of £62,500 or more, held for at least 6 months. This can entirely meet the financial requirement without income.
Who needs to meet the financial requirement?
The UK-based sponsor (British citizen or settled person) is typically required to meet the income threshold. In some cases, the applicant’s income earned while overseas may be considered, but usually only if they are returning together to the UK and have secured employment there.
Do both the sponsor and applicant need to show income?
Usually, only the UK sponsor’s income is considered. However, in some cases, if the applicant has been working in the UK legally, their income may count. Overseas income is generally not counted unless under special circumstances (e.g., returning together with a job offer).