New UK Family Visa Rules: Impact of Higher Salary Threshold Explained

The income benchmark in the UK has been raised from 18,600 pounds to 29,000 pounds, marking an increase of over 55 percent, with a further raise to 38,700 pounds expected early next year. Immigration has become a crucial issue in the upcoming UK general elections, with surveys suggesting that the Conservative Party, led by Mr. Sunak, is set for a significant defeat. The new regulations are part of Mr. Sunak’s plan to reduce unsustainable and unfair levels of migration and alleviate the burden on taxpayers caused by those moving to the UK.

UK’s Interior Minister, James Cleverly, stated that the recent policy change aims to address the strains caused by mass migration, emphasizing the commitment of the UK government to protect British workers and wages and ensure that those relocating to the UK do not rely on public funds. The revised income requirement aims to ensure that families seeking to reunite in the UK demonstrate self-sufficiency, with various means of meeting the threshold, including savings and income from employment. Cleverly underscored the swift implementation of the promised actions to cut unsustainable numbers, protect British workers’ wages, and ensure that those bringing family members to the UK do not burden taxpayers.

The government’s goal is to construct an immigration system that is suitable for the future and instill confidence among the public. With current immigration figures standing at 745,000, the UK government aims to reduce this number to 300,000.