The UK government has recently increased the minimum income requirement for spousal visas. This means that applicants must now demonstrate that they have an annual income of at least £29,000 to be eligible for a spousal visa.
There are a few ways to meet this minimum income requirement:
- Savings: You can use your savings to demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself and your partner in the UK. To be eligible, you will need to have at least £62,500 in savings.
- Income from investments: You can use your income from investments to demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself and your partner in the UK. To be eligible, your investment income must be at least £29,000 per year.
- Income from either partner: If you are applying for a spousal visa with your partner, you can combine your incomes to meet the minimum income requirement. However, you will need to demonstrate that your combined income is at least £29,000 per year.
Children and the minimum income requirement
The UK government has recently changed the rules on how children are counted towards the minimum income requirement for spousal visas. Previously, children were not counted at all. However, under the new rules, children are now counted as 0.5 adults.
This means that if you have a child, your minimum income requirement will be £32,250 per year. If you have two children, your minimum income requirement will be £35,000 per year.
Other eligibility criteria
In addition to meeting the minimum income requirement, you will also need to meet the following eligibility criteria:
- Be in a genuine and subsisting relationship.
- Be able to communicate in English.
- Have accommodation suitable for you and your partner.
Seeking legal advice
If you are unsure about your eligibility for a spousal visa or need assistance with the application process, it is recommended to seek legal advice from an immigration lawyer. They can help you understand the requirements and ensure that your application is submitted correctly.
Remember: The spousal visa process can be complex, so it is important to start planning early and gather all the necessary documents. By following the steps outlined in this guide and seeking legal advice when needed, you can increase your chances of a successful application and reunite with your loved ones.
