What this article is about: This is a practitioner-level guide to the UK spouse/partner visa financial requirement under Appendix FM and Appendix FM-SE. It explains the 2025 minimum income requirement (MIR) of £29,000, how the Home Office calculates and verifies income, when and how cash savings can offset any shortfall, and the limited exemptions (adequate maintenance and exceptional circumstances). It also sets out common pitfalls, compliance implications for sponsors and employers, and practical strategies for applicants who fall short. The guidance reflects current UK immigration law and official policy as at 9 October 2025.
Important overview on cohorts: From 11 April 2024, new partner applicants are assessed against a single MIR (now £29,000). Those who first applied before 11 April 2024 remain on the earlier structure of £18,600 plus child add-ons (£3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each additional child), but never more than £29,000. Extensions for that legacy cohort continue on those rules unless and until Home Office policy changes.
How the threshold timing works: The income level in force on the date you submit the application is the one that applies to your case. Evidence must meet Appendix FM-SE in both content and format; the Home Office will not normally ‘chase’ missing items.
Section A: What Is the UK Spouse/Partner Visa and How It Leads to Settlement
The spouse/partner route sits under Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules. It allows the non-UK partner of a qualifying sponsor to enter or remain in the UK on the basis of their relationship, subject to strict eligibility and evidence rules covering the relationship, finances, English language, and accommodation. Grants of leave typically enable work and study, with a pathway to settlement after five years on the standard route where all requirements continue to be met.
1. Definition and Purpose
The route (commonly called the ‘spouse visa’, though it covers more than marriage) is available to those who are married to, or in a civil partnership with, a qualifying sponsor. It also includes unmarried partners who have lived together in a relationship akin to marriage/civil partnership for at least two years. The purposes of the route are to: enable family life in the UK; ensure self-sufficiency without recourse to public funds; and provide a structured pathway to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) for those who continue to qualify.
2. Who Can Sponsor
- A British citizen.
- A person who is settled (including ILR or ‘settled status’ under Appendix EU).
- An Irish citizen (treated as settled for these purposes).
- A person in the UK with refugee status or humanitarian protection.
Note: Pre-settled status under Appendix EU is limited leave, not settled. In certain circumstances, a partner of a person with limited leave under Appendix EU may fall within Appendix FM provisions, but you should not describe pre-settled status as “settled”. Applicants should consider carefully whether Appendix EU or Appendix FM applies on their facts.
3. Grant Lengths, Conditions and the Settlement Route
Standard grant periods are: entry clearance (outside the UK) up to 33 months; leave to remain (in-country applications) up to 30 months. Fiancé(e)/proposed civil partner leave is six months and prohibits work; after marriage/civil partnership, switching to the partner route enables work. Time on the five-year partner route can count towards ILR if all criteria (including financial, relationship, English language, and continuous residence) are met at each stage. Breaches (e.g., overstaying, failing to meet the financial requirement at extension) can disrupt settlement timelines.
Section Summary
The spouse/partner category is a tightly-defined family migration route with work rights and a clear settlement pathway, but it is not automatic. Success depends on meeting Appendix FM eligibility and evidencing standards precisely, particularly around the financial requirement and the cohort-specific rules introduced from April 2024.
Section B: Spouse Visa UK Salary Requirement 2025 — Income Threshold Explained
The financial requirement under Appendix FM is the central test for whether a couple can live together in the UK without recourse to public funds. Since 2012, this rule has defined the minimum income a UK-based sponsor must earn to bring their non-UK partner to live or remain in the UK. Following the Government’s 2025 policy update, the threshold rose significantly to £29,000 per year, representing one of the largest increases in a decade. This section sets out how that requirement operates, who must meet it, and what counts as income under UK immigration law.
1. The Current Minimum Income Requirement (MIR) — 2025 Update
As of April 2025, the MIR for partner applications under Appendix FM is £29,000 gross per annum. This applies to new applications for entry clearance, leave to remain, and extensions within the five-year partner route. The increase replaced the long-standing £18,600 threshold.
The Home Office confirmed after consultation and a Migration Advisory Committee review that the MIR will remain at £29,000 until further notice. Although earlier proposals had indicated staged rises to £38,700, no further increases are currently scheduled. Applicants should always check the latest threshold on the official GOV.UK website before applying.
Key points for 2025:
- The MIR is assessed on the date of application, not the date of decision.
- Applications submitted before a new MIR takes effect are assessed under the previous rate.
- The MIR applies equally to entry clearance, leave to remain, and extension applications.
- Threshold figures apply to the UK-based sponsor’s gross income (before tax).
Legacy cohort clarification: Applicants who first applied before 11 April 2024 remain on the prior MIR of £18,600 plus child add-ons (£3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each additional child) — but never above £29,000. Future applications under that same family route will continue under those rules unless the Home Office changes policy.
2. Who Must Meet the Financial Requirement
The MIR applies to the UK sponsor, not to the applicant, except in limited cases where the applicant is lawfully working in the UK at the time of applying. Income from overseas employment generally cannot be used unless the same employment continues in the UK after the visa is granted and is evidenced in full compliance with Appendix FM-SE.
Qualifying income sources include:
- Salaried or non-salaried employment income in the UK
- Self-employment income verified by HMRC returns
- Non-employment income, such as rental income, dividends, or pensions
- Cash savings held for at least six months
Exemptions from the MIR: Where the sponsor receives certain specified public benefits, they are exempt from the £29,000 threshold and must instead meet the adequate maintenance test. Qualifying benefits include:
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Carer’s Allowance
- Attendance Allowance
- Severe Disablement Allowance
- Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- Constant Attendance Allowance
- Bereavement Benefits
- Police Injury Pension
- Scottish equivalents (Adult Disability Payment, Child Disability Payment, Carer Support Payment, Pension Age Disability Payment)
When these apply, the couple must demonstrate adequate maintenance and accommodation without further reliance on public funds. The Home Office compares their net household income to the Income Support rate for a household of the same size, deducting housing costs.
3. Calculation and Timing Considerations
The Home Office assesses financial eligibility at the date of application. If an increase in the MIR has not yet taken effect, an application lodged beforehand is assessed against the lower rate. Conversely, if the MIR rises before submission, the new threshold applies immediately. Timing therefore plays a critical role in application strategy.
Applicants should ensure they hold all required evidence before applying. Caseworkers will only assess documents provided at submission or requested under the evidential flexibility policy. They will not request missing documents unless the omission is minor and falls within the Home Office’s discretionary correction powers under Appendix FM-SE.
4. Section Summary
The £29,000 spouse visa salary threshold defines the financial standard sponsors must meet in 2025. It applies to all partner categories under Appendix FM unless an exemption applies. Applicants who applied before 11 April 2024 may remain on legacy rates, but new applicants face the updated requirement. The Home Office enforces this rule strictly — timing, accuracy, and complete documentation are critical to success.
Section C: How the Home Office Calculates Spouse Visa Salary and Income
Meeting the spouse visa financial requirement under Appendix FM-SE involves more than simply earning the correct amount. The Home Office examines whether the income is genuine, consistent, and evidenced exactly in accordance with the Immigration Rules. This section explains how salary and income are calculated, what income sources qualify, and the specific evidential rules that govern acceptable proof.
1. Acceptable Sources of Income
Appendix FM-SE recognises several categories of income that can be used to meet the minimum income requirement, provided they are under the control of the applicant or sponsor and can be fully verified through documentary evidence. The main income types are:
- Employment Income (Salaried or Non-Salaried): Salaried employment involves a fixed, contracted salary received at regular intervals. Non-salaried employment covers variable hours or fluctuating pay patterns. For non-salaried roles, income is averaged over either the last 6 or 12 months depending on the category chosen.
- Self-Employment and Company Income: Income from self-employment is assessed based on the most recent completed financial year and must be supported by SA302 tax calculations, HMRC tax year overviews, and business accounts. Company directors and shareholders can rely on salary and dividend income with full supporting evidence.
- Non-Employment Income: This includes rental income, dividends, pensions, maintenance payments, or other regular passive income. The source and consistency of these payments must be proven with bank statements, contracts, or pension statements.
- Cash Savings: Savings held in cash (current or savings accounts) can either meet the financial requirement in full or offset an income shortfall. They must be held for at least six months before the application date and remain accessible to the applicant or sponsor.
Only income under the direct control of the applicant and/or sponsor can be counted. Third-party support, such as funds provided by friends or relatives, is generally excluded unless there are exceptional circumstances considered under Appendix FM GEN.3.1–3.3.
2. Combining Different Income Sources
Different categories of income may be combined to meet the £29,000 spouse visa salary requirement, but only within the specific combinations permitted under Appendix FM-SE. Common combinations include:
- Employment + Non-Employment Income: These can be added together to meet the required threshold.
- Employment + Cash Savings: Where a sponsor’s employment income falls short, savings can be used to bridge the gap using the Home Office’s offset formula.
- Self-Employment + Non-Employment Income: These can be combined if both relate to the same financial year.
If relying on savings alone, the amount required is calculated as £16,000 (the disregard) plus 2.5 times the shortfall. To meet the requirement entirely through savings, the total amount must be at least £88,500 (£16,000 + [£29,000 × 2.5]).
Partial shortfall formula: (Total savings – £16,000) ÷ 2.5 = income equivalent used to offset salary shortfall.
Example: A sponsor earning £25,000 per year has a £4,000 shortfall. The savings required to cover this would be (£4,000 × 2.5) + £16,000 = £26,000.
3. Documentary Requirements
The Home Office enforces strict evidential requirements. Even small documentary errors can result in refusal. Evidence must be recent, complete, and consistent across all documents. The standard documentation required for each income type is as follows:
- Employment Income: Six months of payslips and matching bank statements showing salary deposits; an employer letter confirming employment status, role, salary, and duration; and, if relevant, evidence of any recent job changes.
- Self-Employment: The latest SA302 tax calculation and HMRC Tax Year Overview; business accounts signed by a qualified accountant (if applicable); and business bank statements showing income receipts.
- Non-Employment Income: Tenancy agreements, investment statements, pension letters, or dividend vouchers, plus bank statements confirming payments received.
- Cash Savings: Bank statements for at least six consecutive months showing the balance and source of funds, plus any evidence explaining large deposits (such as property sale or inheritance documents).
Evidence periods must align precisely with the chosen income category. For salaried employment, the six-month period immediately before the application is used. For self-employment, the most recent completed financial year applies (usually the tax year ending 5 April). Caseworkers will not infer missing information or accept incomplete sets of documents.
4. Importance of Accuracy and Consistency
Refusals frequently arise from discrepancies between payslips, bank deposits, or inconsistent employer information. The Home Office checks all figures against tax and employment records where available. Applicants should therefore conduct a full document audit before submission, ensuring all details match exactly across every document type.
Where an income pattern varies significantly, applicants should explain this within their covering letter and provide contextual evidence (for example, seasonal employment, bonuses, or maternity leave). Transparent presentation reduces the likelihood of caseworker misinterpretation or refusal due to perceived inconsistency.
5. Section Summary
Appendix FM-SE requires absolute precision. Sponsors must provide full, consistent, and verifiable evidence of income that meets or exceeds £29,000 per year. Combining income types is permitted but must follow specific rule combinations, and the savings offset formula must be applied exactly. A single missing payslip or unmatched bank statement can result in refusal. Accuracy, organisation, and clarity remain essential to demonstrating financial compliance under the UK spouse visa rules.
Section D: Exemptions and Adequate Maintenance Rules for Spouse Visa Salary
While most applicants must satisfy the £29,000 minimum income requirement, the Immigration Rules recognise that not all sponsors can meet this level of earnings. In certain cases, the Home Office applies an alternative test known as adequate maintenance. Additionally, there are provisions for exceptional circumstances where refusal would breach the couple’s right to family life under Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR). Understanding these exemptions is essential for applicants who fall short of the MIR but still have legitimate grounds to be granted a visa.
1. Adequate Maintenance Rule for Sponsors Receiving Public Benefits
Sponsors who receive specific state benefits are exempt from the £29,000 spouse visa salary requirement. Instead, they must demonstrate that they can maintain and accommodate their partner adequately without further reliance on public funds. This rule ensures that sponsors with long-term disabilities or caring responsibilities are not unfairly disadvantaged.
Qualifying benefits include:
- Carer’s Allowance
- Disability Living Allowance (DLA)
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP)
- Attendance Allowance
- Severe Disablement Allowance
- Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
- Armed Forces Independence Payment
- Constant Attendance Allowance
- Bereavement Benefits
- Police Injury Pension
- Scottish equivalents (Adult Disability Payment, Child Disability Payment, Carer Support Payment, Pension Age Disability Payment)
To satisfy the adequate maintenance requirement, the couple’s total net income (including qualifying benefits) must be at least equal to or higher than the Income Support level for a British family of the same size after deducting housing costs such as rent or mortgage payments.
Evidence required includes:
- Recent benefit award letters confirming current entitlement
- Bank statements showing benefit payments
- A breakdown of rent or mortgage payments and household expenses
Because the adequate maintenance test involves detailed financial calculations, many applicants seek professional immigration or financial advice to ensure accuracy. The Home Office expects a clear demonstration that the family can live independently without additional public assistance.
2. Exceptional Circumstances Under Article 8 ECHR
Where the sponsor does not qualify under the adequate maintenance rules and cannot meet the £29,000 income requirement, the Home Office may still consider whether refusal would breach the couple’s right to family life under Article 8 of the ECHR. These situations are considered under Appendix FM GEN.3.1–GEN.3.3 of the Immigration Rules.
The Home Office may grant leave outside the financial requirement where refusing the application would cause unjustifiably harsh consequences, particularly where children or other vulnerable family members would be adversely affected. This discretionary provision is applied sparingly but provides a vital safeguard for family unity in compelling cases.
Examples of qualifying exceptional circumstances:
- Cases involving dependent British citizen children
- Situations where the applicant has lived lawfully in the UK for many years and established a strong private life
- Medical or compassionate grounds where refusal would cause serious hardship or separation
Supporting evidence may include:
- Medical and psychological reports
- School and welfare records for children
- Proof of long-term residence and community ties
- Personal statements outlining the impact of family separation
Applicants should provide detailed legal submissions linking their situation to Article 8 protections and demonstrating that refusal would be disproportionate under UK human rights principles. Strong evidence of genuine family life, hardship, and dependency is crucial to success.
3. Discretionary Consideration for Temporary Financial Hardship
The Home Office retains discretion in rare cases involving short-term financial hardship, such as redundancy, illness, or maternity leave. Where there is clear evidence that the sponsor previously met the MIR and will soon return to that level of income, limited flexibility may be applied.
Applicants seeking discretionary consideration should include:
- Proof of prior stable income meeting or exceeding the MIR
- Evidence explaining the temporary disruption (for example, redundancy letter or medical certificate)
- A credible plan showing how financial stability will be restored
Although this discretion is used sparingly, it acknowledges genuine situations where sponsors’ financial capacity has been temporarily affected beyond their control. Applicants should note, however, that relying on discretion alone carries risk and should be supported by comprehensive documentation.
4. Section Summary
Exemptions and discretionary routes provide essential safeguards for families who cannot meet the £29,000 spouse visa salary threshold. Sponsors receiving qualifying benefits are assessed under the adequate maintenance test, while those facing extreme hardship may rely on exceptional circumstances under Article 8 ECHR. Both routes demand strong evidence and careful presentation. Applicants should approach these cases with professional advice to ensure the legal and evidential standards are met fully under Appendix FM and related Home Office guidance.
Section E: Common Problems Meeting the Spouse Visa Salary Threshold
Even when sponsors and applicants meet the financial requirement in principle, many spouse visa refusals occur due to errors in documentation, inconsistent income evidence, or misunderstanding of the Home Office’s strict evidential rules. The financial requirement is applied with precision, leaving very little room for oversight or incomplete submissions. This section examines the most frequent issues applicants encounter and how to mitigate them effectively.
1. Issues with Zero-Hour Contracts and Fluctuating Income
Zero-hour or variable-hours contracts can make it difficult for sponsors to demonstrate a consistent income above the £29,000 threshold. Under Appendix FM-SE, non-salaried employment is assessed based on the actual gross income earned during a specific period before the application—normally 6 or 12 months, depending on the category chosen.
Common problems include:
- Irregular working hours leading to fluctuating monthly income
- Difficulty obtaining employer confirmation of average hours worked
- Lack of guaranteed future earnings at the same level
Mitigation strategies:
- Use the 12-month assessment period if earnings vary widely to demonstrate average stability
- Request an employer letter confirming average hours, pay structure, and continuity of employment
- Ensure all payslips and bank deposits align precisely across the chosen assessment period
Applicants should remember that the Home Office focuses on proven income, not potential or projected earnings. A complete and consistent record of income received is essential to success under this category.
2. Self-Employed Sponsors and Documentary Errors
Self-employed sponsors often face the highest evidential burden under Appendix FM-SE. The Home Office requires income to be assessed using the most recently completed financial year, verified by HMRC documentation. Sponsors cannot usually rely on income from the current financial year until it is formally declared in a tax return.
Frequent issues include:
- Failure to provide the latest SA302 and Tax Year Overview from HMRC
- Missing or uncertified business accounts
- Discrepancies between declared income and bank deposits
- New businesses without a complete financial year of trading
Required evidence:
- SA302 and HMRC Tax Year Overview for the most recent tax year
- Business accounts signed by a qualified accountant (where applicable)
- Business bank statements covering the relevant financial year
- Proof of registration with HMRC as self-employed or as a company director
Where a sponsor’s business is new or undergoing financial fluctuation, it is often safer to delay applying until one complete and stable financial year can be evidenced. Partial or estimated figures are unlikely to meet the required evidential standard.
3. Errors in Financial Documentation
Documentation errors are one of the most common reasons for refusal, even where sponsors clearly meet the income threshold. The Home Office will not accept incomplete, inconsistent, or incorrectly formatted documents. Missing a single payslip, bank statement, or required employer letter can result in automatic refusal.
Typical documentary errors include:
- Payslips and bank statements covering mismatched dates or missing months
- Employer letters lacking mandatory details such as position, salary, or start date
- Accountant certificates not meeting professional membership requirements
- Bank statements showing deposits inconsistent with payslip amounts
- Submission of screenshots or partial online statements instead of full originals or PDFs
Best practice: Applicants should complete a thorough cross-check of all financial documents before submission. Each payslip should correspond to a matching deposit in bank statements, and all evidence must fall within the specified assessment period. Employers’ letters must include all mandatory details set out in Appendix FM-SE.
4. Timing and Incomplete Submissions
The Home Office assesses applications based on the evidence submitted at the time of application. If required documents are missing or submitted late, caseworkers will not normally request them unless the omission is minor and falls within the narrow scope of the evidential flexibility policy.
Submitting an incomplete set of evidence almost always results in refusal. Applicants should therefore avoid applying before collecting all necessary documents covering the required period. Double-checking that each item satisfies the Appendix FM-SE checklist is an essential part of pre-submission preparation.
5. Section Summary
Financial evidence errors, not actual income shortages, cause most spouse visa refusals. The Home Office applies Appendix FM-SE rules strictly, requiring perfect consistency between all documents. Sponsors should pay special attention to aligning payslips and bank statements, providing accountant-certified accounts where needed, and ensuring all evidence covers the correct timeframe. Proactive preparation and quality checking remain the best defences against refusal under the spouse visa financial rules.
Section F: How to Meet the Spouse Visa Salary Requirement — Savings & Planning Tips
For many couples, the £29,000 spouse visa salary requirement represents a major challenge, particularly where income fluctuates, employment has recently changed, or one partner is self-employed. However, Appendix FM-SE provides legitimate and strategic ways to meet or offset the financial requirement through the use of cash savings, combined income sources, and careful planning. This section sets out practical approaches for sponsors to strengthen their financial case and avoid refusal.
1. Using Cash Savings to Meet or Offset the Income Shortfall
Cash savings are among the most flexible ways to satisfy the financial requirement. The Home Office allows savings to either fully meet the minimum income requirement or offset a salary shortfall. The savings must be held by the applicant, sponsor, or jointly by both for at least six consecutive months before the date of application, and must remain immediately accessible.
Key Home Office rules for using cash savings:
- Savings must be held in cash form, such as a current or savings account, not in investments or property.
- The first £16,000 of savings is disregarded for calculation purposes.
- Only funds under the applicant’s or sponsor’s control can be used.
- The remaining balance is divided by 2.5 to calculate the income equivalent.
Examples:
- Full savings route: To meet the £29,000 threshold entirely through savings, the sponsor must hold at least £88,500 (£16,000 + [£29,000 × 2.5]).
- Offset route: If the sponsor earns £25,000, the shortfall is £4,000. The required savings are (£4,000 × 2.5) + £16,000 = £26,000.
Evidence requirements: Applicants must provide six months of consecutive bank statements showing the qualifying balance and, where applicable, evidence of the source of funds (such as a property sale, inheritance, or long-term savings). Any sudden large deposits must be explained clearly to avoid concerns that funds were borrowed temporarily to meet the rules.
2. Financial Planning Ahead of the Application
Meeting the spouse visa salary requirement is often about forward planning rather than last-minute preparation. The Home Office assesses financial stability, consistency, and authenticity over time. Sponsors planning to apply within six to twelve months should prepare their financial profile well in advance.
Practical planning strategies include:
- Securing stable employment that exceeds the £29,000 threshold for at least six months before applying.
- Negotiating increased working hours or reviewing employment contracts to achieve consistent earnings.
- Converting zero-hour contracts into fixed-hour contracts where possible.
- Building cash savings gradually to offset any potential income shortfalls.
- Avoiding informal income sources or payments that cannot be evidenced with official documentation.
Sponsors with fluctuating earnings may strengthen their application by relying on a 12-month assessment period rather than six months, demonstrating a more stable average income. Timing an application around the end of a financial year may also benefit self-employed sponsors by allowing the use of recently finalised tax records.
3. Seeking Legal Advice for Complex or Borderline Cases
Some applicants face more complex financial situations, such as mixed income types, fluctuating earnings, or recent changes in employment or self-employment. In these cases, professional legal advice can help structure the evidence correctly and ensure compliance with Appendix FM-SE.
Benefits of seeking regulated immigration advice:
- Verification that the correct income category and time period are applied.
- Pre-assessment of evidence to identify gaps or inconsistencies before submission.
- Guidance on whether savings, adequate maintenance, or exceptional circumstances may apply.
- Support with drafting legal representations or covering letters highlighting compliance with the Immigration Rules.
Because refusals based on financial grounds can delay family reunification and increase costs, professional review of the evidence before submission is often a worthwhile investment. Lawyers can also assist in calculating adequate maintenance levels or in preparing Article 8 ECHR submissions if necessary.
4. Section Summary
Proactive planning and financial organisation are key to meeting the spouse visa salary requirement. By combining consistent employment income, compliant use of savings, and careful timing, sponsors can significantly improve their chances of success. Where circumstances are complex, seeking early legal advice ensures the application is structured around lawful and evidentially sound grounds. In a process that allows little tolerance for mistakes, preparation and precision remain the strongest assets for sponsors navigating the financial requirement under Appendix FM.
Section G: Sponsor and Employer Compliance — Spouse Visa Salary Implications
While the spouse visa financial requirement focuses primarily on proving a couple’s ability to live independently, it also intersects with wider compliance responsibilities for both sponsors and employers. Understanding the right to work, lawful residence, and documentation requirements helps ensure that visa holders remain compliant and that employers avoid potential civil penalties. This section explores the obligations of sponsors, employers, and applicants under UK immigration law once a spouse visa is granted.
1. Sponsor’s Ongoing Obligations
The UK-based sponsor plays a continuing role in maintaining compliance after the visa is granted. Although the spouse visa route does not involve a licensed sponsorship system like the Skilled Worker route, sponsors are expected to provide genuine, accurate, and up-to-date information during all stages of the visa process and beyond. They must also ensure that the applicant remains lawfully resident in the UK throughout the visa period.
Key ongoing responsibilities for sponsors include:
- Continuing to meet the financial requirement at each visa extension stage.
- Ensuring that the relationship remains genuine and subsisting.
- Providing accurate evidence during extensions and ILR applications.
- Notifying the Home Office of any changes that may affect eligibility, such as separation or changes in employment.
Failing to meet these ongoing obligations can lead to visa curtailment, refusal of extensions, or loss of eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain. Sponsors should maintain a consistent record of income and documentation throughout the five-year route to settlement.
2. Right to Work and Employer Responsibilities
Holders of a UK spouse or partner visa have unrestricted permission to work in the UK. They do not require sponsorship or a Certificate of Sponsorship from an employer. However, employers are still legally required to carry out right to work checks before employment begins and to retain compliant records.
Employer right to work compliance checklist:
- Use the official Home Office online checking service with a valid share code provided by the employee.
- Verify that the individual’s identity matches the Home Office result.
- Keep a dated copy of the online check confirmation for at least two years after employment ends.
- Monitor visa expiry dates and request evidence of extension or ILR applications before leave expires.
Employers who fail to carry out compliant checks can face substantial penalties. From February 2024, the civil penalty for employing an illegal worker increased to £45,000 for a first breach and £60,000 for subsequent breaches. Businesses that also hold a sponsor licence under other visa routes face the additional risk of licence suspension or revocation if they fail to maintain robust right to work compliance.
3. Immigration Enforcement and Compliance Risks
Both sponsors and employers can face serious consequences if immigration or employment compliance obligations are breached. The Home Office treats falsified or misleading information in visa applications as deception, which can lead to refusal, curtailment, or bans on future applications.
Key enforcement risks include:
- For employers: Civil penalties for illegal working, public “naming and shaming”, and loss of sponsor licence (if applicable).
- For sponsors: Refusal or cancellation of the spouse visa if financial or relationship evidence is found to be false or inconsistent.
- For applicants: Potential 10-year deception bans where false or manipulated financial documents are used.
The Home Office may also investigate the genuineness of the relationship during compliance visits or through data-matching exercises. Sponsors and applicants should ensure that their living and financial arrangements accurately reflect the information provided in visa applications.
4. Extensions, ILR, and Long-Term Compliance
Maintaining compliance with financial and immigration conditions is essential throughout the five-year route to settlement. When applying for an extension or Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), the sponsor must once again meet the current MIR in force at that time and provide complete supporting evidence under Appendix FM-SE.
Common compliance issues affecting ILR eligibility include:
- Allowing leave to expire before submitting an extension, causing a break in lawful residence.
- Failing to meet the financial requirement at the extension or ILR stage.
- Gaps or inconsistencies in employment or savings evidence.
- Changes in relationship status not disclosed to the Home Office.
Employers are encouraged to maintain records of visa expiry dates and conduct follow-up checks before expiry. Likewise, sponsors should keep copies of payslips, bank statements, and savings records covering the full five-year period. This evidence will be essential to demonstrate continuous compliance and secure ILR.
5. Section Summary
Compliance under the spouse visa route extends beyond meeting the £29,000 financial requirement. Sponsors must maintain lawful residence, financial stability, and honest disclosure throughout the route, while employers must perform right to work checks and avoid illegal employment practices. A proactive compliance culture—where both sponsor and employer monitor documentation, immigration status, and income evidence—supports both lawful working and long-term eligibility for ILR and, eventually, British citizenship.
FAQs: Spouse Visa UK Salary Requirement
1. What is the current spouse visa UK salary requirement in 2025?
As of April 2025, the minimum income requirement (MIR) for a UK spouse or partner visa is £29,000 gross per year. This applies to all new applications made under Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules. The MIR is assessed on the date the application is submitted, not when the decision is made.
2. Can I use savings to meet or offset the spouse visa salary requirement?
Yes. You can rely on cash savings either to meet the entire requirement or to cover any shortfall in income. The first £16,000 of savings is disregarded, and the remaining balance is divided by 2.5 to calculate an income equivalent. To rely solely on savings, you must hold at least £88,500 (£16,000 + [£29,000 × 2.5]). The funds must have been held for at least six months and be fully under your control.
3. Can my partner’s overseas income be included?
Generally not. The financial requirement applies to the UK-based sponsor. The applicant’s overseas income can only be considered if they are already lawfully working in the UK at the time of the application and their employment will continue after the visa is granted. Evidence such as payslips, bank statements, and employer confirmation must support this.
4. What documents do I need to prove income?
Documents must comply strictly with Appendix FM-SE. The specific evidence depends on your income type:
- Employment income: Six months of payslips, matching bank statements, and an employer letter confirming your employment, salary, and duration of service.
- Self-employment: HMRC SA302, Tax Year Overview, business accounts, and bank statements covering the most recent financial year.
- Non-employment income: Tenancy agreements, dividend vouchers, or pension statements with corresponding bank statements.
- Cash savings: Six months of consecutive bank statements showing the qualifying balance and source of funds.
5. Who is exempt from the £29,000 financial requirement?
Sponsors who receive certain public benefits are exempt from meeting the MIR and are instead assessed under the adequate maintenance test. Qualifying benefits include Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Carer’s Allowance, Attendance Allowance, Severe Disablement Allowance, Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit, and the Scottish equivalents. The couple must show their net income meets or exceeds the Income Support level for a household of the same size after housing costs.
6. What if I don’t meet the income threshold?
If you cannot meet the £29,000 threshold, your case may still be considered under exceptional circumstances provisions in Appendix FM GEN.3.1–3.3. The Home Office will assess whether refusal would cause unjustifiably harsh consequences under Article 8 of the ECHR. You must provide strong supporting evidence such as medical reports, details of dependent children, or proof of long-term residence.
7. How often does the spouse visa salary requirement change?
The MIR is reviewed periodically based on economic conditions and government policy. Although earlier plans proposed staged increases up to £38,700, the Government confirmed in 2025 that the threshold will remain at £29,000 for the foreseeable future. Applicants should always confirm the latest rates on GOV.UK before applying.
8. Can I work in the UK on a spouse visa?
Yes. Spouse and partner visa holders are permitted to work in the UK without restrictions. They may take up employment, self-employment, or voluntary work. However, employers must still perform a right to work check using the Home Office online system with a valid share code provided by the employee.
9. What happens if my income drops after my visa is approved?
The MIR only applies at the point of application and extension. A temporary drop in income after a visa is granted will not affect your existing leave, provided it was lawfully issued. However, when applying for an extension or ILR, you must again meet the financial requirement in force at that time.
10. How long does a spouse visa application take?
Processing times vary depending on where the application is submitted. For applications made outside the UK, decisions typically take around 8–12 weeks. For in-country applications, the timeframe is usually up to 8 weeks. Priority and super-priority services are available for an additional fee and can reduce processing to as little as one or two working days in some cases.
11. How do I calculate adequate maintenance if I’m exempt from the MIR?
You must show that your household’s net income, including qualifying benefits, equals or exceeds the equivalent Income Support rate for a household of the same size after housing costs. The calculation must use official Income Support figures, which change annually. Include benefit letters, rent or mortgage evidence, and a written calculation to demonstrate how the requirement is met.
12. Does the spouse visa financial requirement apply to dependent children?
For new applicants from 11 April 2024 onwards, the MIR is a single £29,000 threshold regardless of the number of dependent children. For applicants who first applied before that date, the earlier system of £18,600 plus child add-ons (£3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each additional child) still applies, capped at £29,000. Check your cohort status to confirm which rule applies.
13. Can I switch to a spouse visa from another visa category in the UK?
Yes. You can switch to the spouse or partner route if you are lawfully in the UK on a visa that allows switching, such as a Skilled Worker or Student visa. You must still meet the £29,000 financial requirement and provide full documentation under Appendix FM-SE. Visitors and short-term visa holders cannot switch from inside the UK.
14. What happens if my application is refused for not meeting the MIR?
You can appeal a refusal on human rights grounds or reapply with stronger evidence. If you believe the Home Office failed to consider all income sources or made an error, legal advice should be sought immediately. Submitting a new, compliant application is often faster than appealing unless there are strong Article 8 arguments.
15. Do I need to meet the MIR again when applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)?
Yes. You must meet the financial requirement again at the ILR stage. The same £29,000 MIR (or the threshold in force at that time) applies, and full evidence must be provided in line with Appendix FM-SE. Any inconsistency in financial evidence across previous applications could lead to delays or refusal, so maintaining accurate records throughout the five-year period is essential.
Section Summary
The spouse visa financial rules are detailed and demanding, but understanding them in advance reduces the risk of refusal. Sponsors should prepare early, document their income carefully, and confirm which MIR applies to their cohort. With full compliance under Appendix FM and Appendix FM-SE, couples can successfully meet the financial requirement and move towards long-term settlement in the UK.
Conclusion: Meeting the Spouse Visa UK Salary Rules with Confidence
Successfully meeting the UK spouse visa financial requirement is one of the most important and challenging aspects of the immigration process. With the minimum income requirement now set at £29,000 per year from April 2025, the Home Office expects full compliance with Appendix FM and Appendix FM-SE. This includes precise calculations, correct documentary evidence, and clear proof that the couple can live independently without recourse to public funds.
The Home Office enforces the financial requirement rigorously. Applications are assessed strictly against the evidence provided at submission, leaving no room for partial or incomplete documentation. Even where the sponsor’s income clearly exceeds £29,000, a missing payslip or unmatched bank deposit can result in refusal. Applicants must therefore approach the process with methodical preparation and absolute accuracy.
For those unable to meet the MIR through income alone, the rules provide limited but lawful alternatives. Cash savings can offset salary shortfalls, and sponsors receiving specified benefits may rely on the adequate maintenance test instead of the standard financial threshold. In exceptional cases, where refusal would breach family life rights under Article 8 ECHR, the Home Office may exercise discretion and grant leave outside the rules — but such cases demand robust supporting evidence and careful legal presentation.
Compliance extends beyond the application itself. Sponsors should maintain ongoing financial stability and retain documentary evidence for future extension and ILR applications. Employers must also perform right-to-work checks to ensure lawful employment of spouse visa holders. Continuous compliance and transparency protect both the couple’s immigration status and their future eligibility for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Ultimately, the spouse visa financial rules are designed to ensure families living in the UK can support themselves independently. Although strict, the system rewards clarity, consistency, and preparation. By understanding how the Home Office applies the MIR and by presenting a complete, well-organised financial case, applicants can significantly improve their chances of approval and move one step closer to permanent settlement and family stability in the UK.
Glossary
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Spouse Visa | A visa that allows the non-UK partner of a British citizen or settled person to live and work in the UK based on their relationship. |
| Appendix FM | The section of the UK Immigration Rules that governs applications to enter or remain in the UK on the basis of family life. |
| Appendix FM-SE | The evidential requirements section of the Immigration Rules detailing which documents must be provided to meet the financial criteria. |
| Financial Requirement | The Home Office’s minimum income threshold that sponsors must meet to bring their spouse or partner to the UK — currently £29,000 gross per year. |
| Minimum Income Requirement (MIR) | The term used by the Home Office for the income threshold applied to family migration routes under Appendix FM. |
| Adequate Maintenance | An alternative financial test for sponsors receiving specified public benefits. It compares the couple’s net income to the Income Support level for a UK household of equivalent size. |
| Exceptional Circumstances | Cases considered under Appendix FM GEN.3.1–3.3 where refusing a visa would cause unjustifiably harsh consequences, potentially breaching Article 8 ECHR rights. |
| Cash Savings Formula | The calculation used when using savings to meet or offset the MIR: (Savings – £16,000) ÷ 2.5 = income equivalent; £88,500 is required to meet the full MIR through savings alone. |
| Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) | Permanent residence status in the UK, allowing the holder to live and work without immigration restrictions and forming a route to British citizenship. |
| SA302 | A tax document issued by HMRC summarising a self-employed individual’s income and tax liability for a completed financial year, used as evidence in visa applications. |
| Share Code | A digital code generated via the Home Office online system that enables employers to verify an individual’s right to work in the UK. |
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