To bring a spouse, partner, or fiancé(e) to the UK on a family visa, you (the UK-based sponsor) must meet a minimum income requirement. Since April 2024, this threshold is £29,000 per year — up from the previous £18,600. This guide explains exactly what counts towards that income, how to use savings, and what to do if you are just under the threshold.
The current income requirement
The minimum gross annual income for a spouse or partner visa sponsor is £29,000. This applies whether you are a British citizen, settled person, or someone with pre-settled status under the EUSS. The income must come from the sponsor — not from the partner applying for the visa.
What counts as income?
- Employment income — gross salary from a UK employer (before tax). Overtime, bonuses, and commission count if they are guaranteed or have been received consistently
- Self-employment income — profits from a sole trader business or partnership, evidenced by 2 years of tax returns (SA302)
- Non-employment income — rental income, dividends, interest from savings
- Pension income — State Pension, private pension, or occupational pension
- Maternity, paternity, or adoption pay counts if it is from an employer (not statutory pay only)
- Note: Universal Credit, Tax Credits, and most other public funds do NOT count towards the threshold
Can savings count towards the requirement?
Yes — but only savings above £16,000. For every £2.50 in savings above £16,000, you can count £1 towards supplementing your income shortfall. The savings must have been held for at least 6 months in a bank account in your name (or jointly with your partner).
💡 Tip
Example: You earn £25,000/year (£4,000 short of £29,000). You need savings of £16,000 + (£4,000 × 2.5) = £26,000 in savings to make up the gap.
What if I just started a new job?
If you have been in your current job for less than 6 months, you can still use your salary as evidence but you will need an employer letter confirming your salary and that your employment is permanent (or on a fixed-term contract lasting at least 6 months from the date of application). UKVI wants to see that the income is sustainable — a recent job change is not automatically a problem.
Do children affect the threshold?
No — the £29,000 threshold is the same regardless of how many children are included in the application. Previously, additional children added to the income requirement, but this is no longer the case under the current rules.
What documents do you need to prove income?
- Payslips: last 6 months if employed for over 6 months, or all payslips if employed for less
- Bank statements: last 6 months showing salary payments
- P60 from the most recent tax year (if available)
- Employer letter: confirming salary, job title, and contract type
- For self-employed: SA302 tax calculations for the last 2 full tax years plus bank statements
Check the full UK family visa guidance on GOV.UK
Family Visa Guidance →