Meeting the Financial Requirement for a UK Spouse or Partner Visa

09 Oct 2025

By David Winnie Partner, Head of Sports and Immigration, at Gilson Gray.

If you’re applying for a UK spouse or partner visa under Appendix FM, one of the biggest hurdles is proving you meet the financial requirement. This rule is in place to show that couples can support themselves in the UK without needing public funds.

At the moment, the minimum income threshold is £29,000 a year. Unlike in the past, there’s no extra amount to add if you have dependent children.

So, how can you meet this requirement?

Using Cash Savings

If you (or your partner) have savings of more than £16,000, you can use them to help meet the financial requirement. The money must:

• Be in your control (individually or jointly) for at least six months before applying, and
• Be kept in a regulated bank, savings, or investment account (in the UK or abroad).

If your savings are in a foreign currency, they’ll be converted into pounds

How much savings do you actually need?

If you’re relying only on savings (with no other income), you’ll need £88,500. That figure comes from a Home Office formula – essentially £16,000 plus 2.5 years’ worth of the £29,000 income requirement.

What About Gifts?

Yes, savings can come from gifts – for example, if a family member gives you money. But there’s a catch: the funds must still be in your account for at least six months before you apply, and you’ll need a signed statement confirming the gift is genuine and under your control.

Investment Income

If you receive income from stocks, shares, or other investments, this can also count towards the financial requirement. Even if you sold the investment during the year before your application, the income may still count as long as you’ve reinvested in something equivalent and still hold it when applying.

Pension Income

Finally, pensions can help. Whether it’s a UK state pension, an occupational pension, or even a foreign pension, the annual income you receive can be included. The key point is that it must have been paid to you for at least 28 days before you apply.

Evidence You’ll Need

For all of the above, the Home Office expects clear proof. This usually means:

• Bank statements,
• Official letters from pension providers or government agencies, and
• Documentation confirming the source of savings or investment income.

Why This Matters

The financial requirement is one of the strictest parts of the UK spouse and partner visa process. Many applications are refused because couples don’t provide the right documents or misunderstand the rules.

Getting it right the first time can save months of delay, extra fees, and a lot of stress.