UK Raises Income Threshold for Family Visas, Tightening Immigration Rules
The UK government has significantly increased the income requirement for family visa sponsorship as part of a broader strategy to reduce legal migration.
- The minimum income required to sponsor a family visa in the UK has been raised by over 55%, from £18,600 to £29,000, effective immediately.
- Further increases are planned, with the threshold set to reach £38,700 by early 2025, aligning with the salary requirements for a Skilled Worker visa.
- The policy change is part of Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's commitment to reduce immigration, citing the need to protect British workers and reduce reliance on public funds.
- Critics argue the new rules will harm families, making it difficult for many to reunite in the UK due to the high financial requirements.
- The government has also implemented stricter regulations on student visas and increased health surcharges for foreign nationals using the NHS.