UK Government Suspends 19.83% Family Visa Income Increase, Providing Temporary Relief
The UK government has temporarily paused its plan to raise the minimum income requirement for family visas by 19.83%. Initially set to increase from £29,000 to £34,500, the freeze provides temporary relief to those hoping to sponsor family members for UK residency.
This pause comes as the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) reviews the financial criteria for family visas. While the review is ongoing, the current income threshold of £29,000 will stay in effect, halting the planned income hike.
This decision offers significant relief to individuals who are seeking to reunite with family members in the UK but may have been financially strained by the proposed changes.
Family Visa Overview
As outlined by Visa Guide, a UK family visa allows individuals to live with a family member—spouse, partner, child, parent, or dependent—who is a British citizen or settled in the UK. Applicants must meet specific eligibility requirements, including a minimum income threshold to prove they can financially support their family member.
Temporary Freeze on the Income Requirement
The UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that the current £29,000 minimum income threshold for family visas will remain unchanged until the MAC completes its review. Cooper explained that the balance between family life and the country’s economic well-being is under reassessment, with a focus on solid evidence before making any adjustments.
Suspended Plans for Further Increases
The government initially aimed to raise the income requirement in three stages, eventually aligning it with the minimum salary for skilled workers. The first stage of the increase, implemented in April 2024, saw the threshold rise from £18,600 to £29,000—an increase of 56.99%. A second planned increase to £34,500 has now been paused pending the outcome of the MAC’s review.
Broader Immigration Changes
Several other changes to UK immigration routes have been introduced recently, including:
- Stricter Student and Graduate Visa Regulations: Enhanced criteria to prevent visa abuse.
- Limits on Family Members of International Students: New restrictions to ease pressure on public services.
- Care Worker Visa Restrictions: Limitations on bringing dependents, with sponsors required to register with the Care Quality Commission.
- Increased Salary Threshold for Skilled Workers: The minimum salary has been raised to £38,700 to ensure fair wages.
- Abolition of the “Going Rate” Discount: Migrant workers in shortage occupations can no longer be paid less than their UK counterparts.
Conclusion: Temporary Relief Amid Review
The freeze on the planned income hike for family visas offers a window of opportunity for individuals looking to bring their family members to the UK. However, as the MAC review continues, applicants should stay informed on any potential changes that may affect future visa eligibility.