Appendix FM Financial Requirements for UK Spouse and Partner Visas in 2025

Understanding the financial requirements for a UK spouse or partner visa in 2025 is essential for a successful application. Recent changes to Appendix FM have significantly impacted the minimum income threshold, income sources, and necessary documentation. This guide simplifies the key updates and explains how applicants can meet the financial criteria.

Updated Minimum Income Threshold

As of April 2024, the minimum income requirement for UK spouse and partner visas increased from £18,600 to £29,000 annually. This change aims to ensure that sponsors can support their partners without relying on public funds. However, applicants extending their visa or applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after holding a visa granted before April 2024 can still meet the previous £18,600 threshold.

Essential Financial Requirements

Applicants must satisfy two main financial conditions:

Meet the minimum income threshold.
Provide evidence of suitable accommodation in the UK.
This guide focuses on the income threshold, detailing how applicants with varying financial circumstances can fulfil the requirements.

Income Categories and Accepted Sources

The Home Office recognises various income sources categorised as follows:

• Category A: Salaried employment for at least six months with the same employer.
• Category B: Salaried or non-salaried employment for less than six months or variable income.
• Category C: Non-employment income (property rentals, dividends).
• Category D: Cash savings.
• Category E: Pension income.
• Category F & G: Self-employment income or directorship in a limited company.
• Category A: Salaried Employment (6+ Months)

For applicants or sponsors employed for over six months with the same employer, the gross annual income must meet the £29,000 threshold. Required documents include:

Six months of consecutive payslips.
Corresponding bank statements showing salary deposits.
An employer letter confirming employment details.
Category B: Variable Income or New Employment

This category applies to applicants who:

Have been in their current job for less than six months.
Earn variable income (e.g., commission, zero-hour contracts).
Applicants must provide:

Payslips and bank statements covering the last 12 months.
An employer letter explaining variable income, if relevant.
Category C: Non-Employment Income

Applicants can use income from property rentals, investments, or maintenance payments. Required documentation includes:

Bank statements confirming income deposits.
Proof of asset ownership (e.g., property deeds).
Relevant agreements (e.g., tenancy agreements).
Category D: Cash Savings

Cash savings can be used to meet the financial requirement. To calculate the necessary amount, applicants must multiply the income shortfall by 2.5 and add £16,000. For a couple without children, £62,500 in savings is required. Evidence must include bank statements showing the funds held for at least six months.

Category E: Pension Income

Pension income from state, occupational, or private pensions can count towards the requirement if received consistently for at least 28 days before application. Required documents include pension statements and bank statements showing deposits.

Category F & G: Self-Employment and Company Directorship

Applicants who are self-employed or directors of a specified limited company must provide:

The most recent self-assessment tax return.
Business bank statements.
Company tax returns (for directors).
Payslips and dividend vouchers.
Income Requirements for Families with Children

Families with children must demonstrate additional income:

£3,800 for the first child.
£2,400 for each additional child.
Combining Income Sources

Applicants can combine income from different categories (e.g., salaried employment and savings) to meet the threshold. However, certain categories cannot be mixed, and specific documentation rules apply. Consulting an immigration lawyer is advisable for complex cases.

Sponsors Receiving Benefits

Sponsors receiving certain government benefits can meet the financial requirement without adhering to the standard income threshold. Accepted benefits include:

Disability Living Allowance

Carer’s Allowance
Personal Independence Payment
Proof of benefit entitlement and recent bank statements must be provided.

Exceptional Circumstances

Applicants who cannot meet the financial requirements due to extraordinary circumstances may seek consideration under exceptional provisions. This allows alternative income sources, such as family support, to be evaluated if refusal would result in disproportionate hardship.

Read the full guide to Appendix FM Financial requirements for partner visa here

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