Easier UK Family Visas in 2025? Flexible Income Rule Proposal Revealed

The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has published its long-awaited review of the minimum income requirement for family visas in the UK. The review aims to strike a balance between the UK’s economic interests and the fundamental right to family life.

Unlike previous reports, the MAC did not settle on a single income threshold. Instead, it presented the government with a range of income options for family visas, giving policymakers room to decide based on their immigration objectives.

What Could Change for Family Visa Applicants?

If the UK government accepts these influential proposals, several key reforms could simplify the family visa application process and potentially reduce the financial burden on families. Here are the highlights:

1. Combining Incomes Made Easier

A significant hurdle for many has been the restriction on combining savings with self-employment income. The MAC proposes removing this limitation, offering greater flexibility for applicants to meet the financial criteria.

2. UK Job Offers & Remote Work Count

For those applying from outside the UK, the ability to count a UK job offer or a remote work role towards the minimum income requirement would be a game-changer. This acknowledges the evolving nature of work and broadens the scope for eligible applicants.

3. Simplified Income Calculation

The MAC suggests a more straightforward formula for calculating annual income, aiming to demystify the process and make it more accessible for applicants.

4. Flat Rate for All Families

The committee recommends maintaining a flat minimum income requirement regardless of the number of children in a family. This provides clarity and avoids increased financial burdens based on family size.

Annual Review of Thresholds: The MAC also recommended yearly reviews to adjust the income requirement based on changing economic conditions.

Achievable Incomes: £23,000-£25,000

The MAC’s report highlighted a focus on the £23,000 to £25,000 range for the minimum income requirement. This range is considered “achievable for most full-time UK workers,” suggesting a move towards more realistic and inclusive financial thresholds.

The committee also stressed the importance of annual reviews for these requirements, ensuring they remain relevant and fair.

Why This Matters for Family Visa Applicants

If adopted by the UK government, these changes could ease the financial burden for many families. The flexibility in income sources, especially recognising job offers and allowing savings to supplement self-employment, could open the door to a broader pool of eligible applicants.

Moreover, keeping the threshold flat for all families regardless of the number of children would make the process more predictable and transparent.

What Happens Next?

The MAC’s role is advisory, meaning none of these proposals are binding yet. However, its recommendations are often adopted by the UK government, sometimes with minimal delay.

Until formal changes are announced, the current income threshold of £29,000 (as of April 2024) still applies, with further planned increases expected later in the year.

Final Thoughts

The MAC’s review signals a potential shift toward a more compassionate and inclusive UK family visa policy. While the government has yet to respond, these proposals could lead to lower financial barriers for reunification and greater flexibility for modern working families.