In a recent update, the UK government has adjusted its plans to increase the salary threshold for bringing foreign family members into the country. Originally proposing a threshold of £38,700, the government faced criticism, leading to a revision of the policy. The new approach involves a gradual increase in the salary threshold, with an initial rise to £29,000 from spring next year. Home Secretary James Cleverly emphasized that the measures aim to prioritize those contributing significantly to the economy while deterring those taking advantage of generosity.
The decision was confirmed by Lord Sharpe, a junior Home Office minister, who revealed that the threshold would rise in stages, reaching £34,500 before eventually reaching the initially proposed £38,700. The specific timeline for these increments has not been detailed, but the government aims to provide predictability by implementing the changes gradually. Additionally, official documents released on Thursday clarified that renewing family visas under the five-year partner route would still require earnings above the existing threshold of £18,600.
The government’s legal migration minister, Tom Pursglove, explained the “stepped” approach in a letter to MPs, emphasizing a balance between the immediate need to reduce net migration and providing affected individuals with adequate time to prepare for the upcoming changes. The new measures, including salary thresholds, are set to be introduced in Immigration Rules in April 2024, with implementation shortly afterward.
The initial backlash against the proposed changes stemmed from concerns that the £38,700 threshold would result in the separation of families. In response to the criticism, the government opted for a more flexible approach, acknowledging the need to address migration concerns while ensuring families have sufficient time to adapt to the evolving regulations.
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