Introduction
In 2024 the UK Spouse Visa is going under adjustments to not only. In this UK spouse visa guide we aim to detail and outline the new visa changes for applicants, highlighting the increase in the income thresholds and offering a more detailed overview of how to effectively manage a spouse visa application in 2024, whilst the laws surrounding the visa are changing.
What is A Spouse Visa?
UK Spouse Visas are for families and partners aiming to build a life together in the UK by bringing their partner into the UK. The minimum income requirement currently stands at a rate of £18,600 per annum, however, this threshold is set to increase significantly in on April 11th 2024 up to the new rate of £29,000. Understanding these changes is key for anyone considering applying for a UK Spouse Visa in the imminent future.
The New Minimum Income Threshold Requirement for UK Spouse Visas
In 2024, the financial criteria for those applying for a UK Spouse Visa are about to undergo a significant change. The minimum income threshold is currently set at £18,600. Yet, as we move into April 2024, applicants will face a steep increase, with the required income rising to £29,000. Furthermore, by January 2025, the figure is expected to again increase to £38,700.
| Date | Minimum Salary Threshold |
|---|---|
| Current | £18,600 |
| April 11, 2024 | £29,000 |
| January 2025 | £38,700 |
Impact on Applicants with Children
The UK government plans to remove the additional income requirement for applicants with dependent children starting April 11th 2024. This means the income threshold will no longer increase by £3,800 for the first child on the applicants application and an additional £2,400 for every following child. This change helps simplify the application process for families as well as elevate a portion of the financial requirements by removing the separate financial requirement for each dependent child.
Exemptions For The New Spouse Visa Financial Requirements
For applicants who do not meet the new minimum salary threshold for UK spouse visas, there are some potential options you could consider:
- Qualifying Benefits: If the sponsor is receiving certain benefits such as:
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
- Severe Disablement Allowance
- Attendance Allowance
- Bereavement Benefits
- Police Injury Pension
- War Disablement Pension, Mobility Supplement, or Constant Attendance Allowance under the War Pensions Scheme
- Guaranteed Income Payment under the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme
these might exempt you from the standard financial requirement, fitting into a special category where the income threshold may be considered met.
- Applying Early: Those close to the current threshold might consider applying before April 11th 2024 increase to take advantage of the lower, current requirement.
- Increasing Income: Sponsors could seek higher-paying employment or explore additional income sources that the Home Office accepts towards the financial requirement.
- Utilising Savings: Cash savings over £16,000 can be combined with income to meet the threshold. In some cases, substantial savings alone might suffice.
- Exceptional Circumstances: In specific situations, applicants can argue that exceptional circumstances apply to their case, potentially waiving the income requirement.
- Legal Advice: Challenging the changes or seeking other legal immigration routes through legal consultation can offer more tailored solutions based on your individual case specifics.
Conclusion
As we approach the implementation date for the new UK Spouse Visa requirements, particularly with the significant changes in the minimum income requirement set for 2024, it’s paramount for applicants to seek professional immigration guidance. Consulting with our Spouse Visa Solicitors can help provide the expertise needed to understand how these changes might affect individual applications and explore the best course of action.
Whether it’s stratergising to meet the new financial requirements or considering the timing of your application, our professional advice at UKSpouseVisa.co.uk can be invaluable in maximising your spouse visa application’s chances of a successful outcome.
How UKSpouseVisa.co.uk Can Help With Your Spouse Visa Application
At UKSpouseVisa.co.uk our Immigration solicitors specialise in all Family & Partner based immigration routes to the UK including the UK Spouse Visa. Our Immigration lawyers are experts in providing legal advice and guidance on the complexities of the UK spouse visa application process. Our expertise covers financial requirement advice, application preparation, and strategies to maximise your applications chances of a successful decision.
We tailor all our services to meet your individual needs and circumstances, ensuring you are well-informed and prepared for their applications. For more details on our services and assistance with your spouse visa application, Contact Our Immigration Solicitors Today!
