The UK government has made changes to immigration rules to reduce the number of people coming into the country. They have increased the minimum income needed to sponsor family members joining in the UK, aiming to ease the financial burden on taxpayers and manage migration better.
From April 11, the minimum income requirement for sponsoring family visas has gone up from £18,600 to £29,000, a 55% rise. This threshold will further increase to £38,700 by early 2025, matching the salary needed for the Skilled Worker visa.
Alongside these income changes, the government has also taken other steps to control immigration:
- Students can no longer bring many dependents to the UK.
- Family members of care workers are limited in joining them.
- Care providers must register with the Care Quality Commission when sponsoring migrant care workers.
- The Migration Advisory Committee is reviewing the Graduate route for international students to ensure it’s not misused.
- The minimum salary required for Skilled Worker visa holders has increased from £26,200 to £38,700.
- A new Immigration Salary List ensures migrant workers are paid fairly compared to UK workers in shortage jobs, replacing the Shortage Occupation List.
These changes are meant to give families a clear plan while making sure they are financially self-sufficient and contribute positively to the UK’s economy. The government wants migrants to integrate into British society and actively participate in community life without relying on public funds.
Family Immigration UK, Income Requirement, New Rules, Visa Sponsorship, UK Immigration