The UK government has declared a temporary suspension of its proposal to increase the minimum income requirement for family visas by 19.83%.

This decision indicates that the government will not proceed with the planned rise in the income threshold necessary for individuals wishing to sponsor family members for a visa.

As reported by TravelBiz, this pause coincides with ongoing evaluations by the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC), which is set to review the financial standards for family visas.

Consequently, the existing income requirement of £29,000 will remain unchanged for the time being, rather than escalating to £34,500, offering temporary relief to those aiming to reunite with their family members in the UK.

This decision is particularly beneficial for foreign nationals seeking to bring their relatives to the UK.

As noted by Visa Guide, a family visa is a document that facilitates family reunification in another country, allowing individuals to live with a family member in the UK for over six months.

It is applicable to spouses, partners, children, parents, or dependents of British citizens or those settled in the UK.

To qualify, applicants must fulfill certain criteria, including demonstrating sufficient income and a genuine relationship with the sponsor.

The Suspension of Income Requirement

As reported by TravelBiz, UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has confirmed that the existing minimum income threshold of £29,000 for family visas will remain in effect until the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) completes its review.

Cooper emphasized in a parliamentary statement, “The Family Immigration Rules, including the Minimum Income Requirement, must strike a balance between respecting family life and safeguarding the UK’s economic interests.”

“To achieve the appropriate balance and establish a robust evidence base for any modifications, I will task the Migration Advisory Committee with reviewing the financial requirements.”

Postponement of Planned Increases

Further information indicates that the government had intended to increase the income requirement in three phases, ultimately aligning it with the minimum salary for skilled workers.

The initial increase, scheduled for April 11th, 2024, would have raised the requirement from £18,600 to £29,000, reflecting a 56.99% increase. Subsequent increases would have escalated it to £34,500, an additional 19.83% increase.

However, these plans are currently on hold as the MAC conducts its review of the proposed adjustments.

Recent Modifications to Immigration Pathways

In addition to the halted increase for family visas, several other notable changes have recently been enacted:

Stricter Regulations for Student and Graduate Visas: The UK has implemented more rigorous eligibility standards and enhanced scrutiny to combat visa misuse among students and graduates.

Limitations on Family Members of International Students: New restrictions have been introduced regarding the ability to bring family members to the UK, aimed at alleviating pressure on public services and curbing visa exploitation.

Restrictions for Care Worker Visas: Care workers and senior care workers now face limitations on bringing dependants, with sponsors required to be registered with the Care Quality Commission.

Increased Salary Requirement for Skilled Workers: The minimum salary for skilled worker visas has been raised from £26,200 to £38,700 to ensure equitable wages and prevent the displacement of UK workers.

Removal of Going Rate Discount: Employers are now prohibited from compensating migrant workers at a lower rate than their UK peers in shortage occupations, thereby reducing the risk of exploitation.

Utilize This Time: The government’s choice to halt the rise in the family visa income threshold provides temporary respite for individuals aiming to reunite with family members in the UK.

As the MAC assesses the financial requirements, applicants should stay updated on any changes that may impact their eligibility and visa applications.