The UK’s newly appointed Labour Party government has announced the suspension of a planned increase in the minimum income threshold for British nationals and permanent residents seeking to bring family members to the UK.
UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper confirmed this decision, which affects numerous Indian families, in a recent written statement to the House of Commons.
Current Minimum Income Requirement
As it stands, British nationals must meet a minimum annual income requirement of GBP 29,000 to sponsor family members for long-term visas. The previous Conservative government had proposed an incremental increase, pushing this threshold up to GBP 38,700.
However, the Labour Party decided to maintain the current requirement until the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) completes its independent review.
Review by Migration Advisory Committee
The UK government has tasked the MAC with assessing the impact of the minimum income requirement on families and examining the reliance of key sectors, such as IT and engineering, on international recruitment. These sectors are notably dependent on skilled workers from countries like India.
“The family immigration rules, including the minimum income requirement, need to balance a respect for family life with ensuring that the economic wellbeing of the UK is maintained,” stated Home Secretary Cooper.
Background of the Proposed Increase
The proposal to increase the minimum income threshold was part of a broader effort to curb migration announced by the former Conservative government under Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.
Starting in April, the government planned to raise the minimum salary for sponsoring family visas from GBP 18,600 to GBP 29,000, with further increases to GBP 38,700, aligning with the minimum income requirements for the Skilled Worker Visa.
Impact on Indian Families
The proposed hike was expected to significantly affect Indian families, who constitute the second-highest group under the Family Visa category.
According to UK Home Office statistics Indians accounted for 5,248 family visas in 2023, following Pakistanis (14,330) and ahead of Bangladeshis (3,534). Analysts warned that the steep increase in the income requirement would have wide-ranging consequences for families with lower incomes.
A New Approach to Immigration
Home Secretary Cooper has outlined a new approach to immigration policy, which prioritizes evidence-based decision-making and a focus on skills and labour market needs. The government aims to align immigration with the UK’s economic priorities and to ensure that it benefits both British citizens and migrants.
While the decision to pause the income threshold increase is a positive step, it is important to note that other visa restrictions introduced by the previous government, such as those affecting international students and care workers, remain in place. The Labour government has indicated its intention to review these policies and make necessary changes.
What is the Minimum Income Threshold?
The minimum income threshold is the minimum salary or income required by British nationals to sponsor long-term family visas for their spouses or parents.
The government of the UK introduced this threshold to ensure that individuals sponsoring family members can financially support them in the UK. The current threshold stands at £29,000 per year, but the previous government planned to significantly increase this figure.
Final Words
The government’s decision to pause the increase in the minimum income threshold is a temporary measure while the MAC conducts its review. The outcome of this review will determine the future of family immigration rules and the financial requirements for sponsoring family members.