UK Increases Minimum Salary for Family Visa Sponsorship by Over 55%

British citizens and residents sponsoring family members for UK visas now face a significantly higher income threshold. This change, implemented on April 11, 2024, is part of the UK government’s plan to control legal immigration.

Stricter Immigration Measures Unveiled

Minimum Salary Increase: Effective from April 11, British citizens and residents, including those from the Indian community, will now need to meet a minimum annual salary threshold of £29,000, marking a substantial 55% increase from the previous requirement of £18,600.

Phased Increases: By early 2025, the minimum income will rise again to £38,700, aligning with the Skilled Worker visa threshold.

Government Rationale: The government claims this change ensures families are self-sufficient, reduces strain on public funds, and contributes positively to the economy.

Immigration Reform Package: This measure is part of a broader immigration reform package introduced by the Rishi Sunak government in 2023.

Also Read: Work Remotely from the UK! New Rules for Visitors Explained

What This Means for You

British citizens and residents sponsoring family members for UK visas must now meet the new £29,000 minimum income threshold (increasing to £38,700 in 2025).

Potential Impact: This change could significantly impact families aiming to reunite in the UK, particularly those with lower household incomes.

Impact on Immigration Landscape

With these new regulations in place, approximately 300,000 individuals who arrived in the UK last year may no longer be eligible under the revised criteria.

The government’s stance underscores its commitment to building an immigration system fit for the future, one that ensures taxpayers are not burdened and garners confidence from the public.

Additional Immigration Reforms

The UK government has implemented a series of measures aimed at curbing legal immigration, including:

• Restrictions on Dependent Sponsorship: Nearly all students are now unable to bring dependents to the UK.
• Care Worker Restrictions: Care workers are restricted from bringing family members.
• Regulation of Care Providers: Care providers must register with the Care Quality Commission if sponsoring migrant care workers.
• Review of the Graduate Route: The Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) has been tasked with reviewing the Graduate route for international students to prevent abuse and protect the integrity of UK higher education.
• Salary Threshold Increase: The minimum salary for those arriving on the Skilled Worker visa has been raised from £26,200 to £38,700.
• Introduction of Immigration Salary List: The Shortage Occupation List has been replaced with an Immigration Salary List, ensuring migrants are not paid less than UK workers in shortage occupations.

Looking Ahead

As the UK continues to navigate evolving immigration challenges, these measures signal a concerted effort by the government to prioritize the interests of its citizens while maintaining a robust and sustainable immigration system.