The United Kingdom has raised the bar for family visa sponsorship, introducing stricter income criteria. The new regulations demand a minimum annual salary of GBP 29,000, marking a significant 55 percent increase from the previous threshold of GBP 18,600. This adjustment, announced by the Rishi Sunak government, aligns the family visa salary threshold with that of the Skilled Worker visa, effective from April 11.
According to the UK Home Office, the sponsoring family member, or the applicant if they are already in the UK with permission to work, must now demonstrate an income of at least GBP 29,000 earned within the UK. This requirement can be fulfilled through various means, including savings in addition to a lower income.
The rationale behind this move, as stated by the Home Office, is to reduce the burden on taxpayers and ensure sustainable immigration. Home Secretary James Cleverly emphasized the necessity of building a future-ready immigration system, framing the higher salary range as a crucial step in achieving this goal.
Cleverly highlighted the government’s commitment to swift action in addressing immigration concerns. He stressed the importance of curbing unsustainable migration numbers to protect British workers and their wages. The tightened policy aims to instill confidence in the public regarding the immigration system’s efficacy and fairness.
This decision comes in the wake of official data revealing a record high of 745,000 legal net migrations to Britain in 2022. The government’s response underscores its determination to manage immigration effectively and responsibly, considering the economic and social implications for the country.
As the UK continues to navigate its immigration landscape, the adjustments to family visa criteria represent a significant step towards aligning immigration policies with broader economic and social objectives. With stricter income requirements in place, the government aims to strike a balance between welcoming skilled migrants and safeguarding the interests of British citizens and taxpayers alike.
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