UK Spouse & Family Visa Eligibility Checker 2026
Check if you and your UK-based partner meet the income and English language requirements for a UK Spouse / Partner visa (Family visa route).
This is the family/partner threshold. It is different from the Skilled Worker salary threshold (£41,700). Savings above £16,000 can cover an income shortfall at a rate of £2.50 for every £1 short.
Savings needed for each level of income
⚠️ Estimate only. Figures checked 29 October 2026. The threshold has changed more than once in recent years, so always verify the exact current figure on GOV.UK before applying.
UK Spouse Visa — Key Facts 2026
The UK Spouse/Partner visa allows non-UK nationals to join their British citizen or settled partner in the UK. It is one of the most common UK visas but has strict income requirements that have changed more than once in recent years.
Income Threshold — Source Directly From GOV.UK
For applications made on or after 11 April 2024 the minimum is £29,000 a year, with no extra amount for children. The sponsor's income can be combined with the applicant's if the applicant is already in the UK with permission to work. People who first applied as a partner before 11 April 2024 stay on the old rules when extending: £18,600, plus £3,800 for the first non-British child and £2,400 for each additional one.
If income falls short, cash savings can make up the difference. You need £16,000 plus 2.5 times the shortfall, so £88,500 with no income at all. Funds must be held for at least six months. The Migration Advisory Committee's June 2025 review suggested a lower range of about £23,000–£25,000. As of 29 October 2026 the government has not responded and the threshold is still £29,000. Earlier plans to raise it to £38,700 are on hold.
→ GOV.UK: Family visa income requirement
English Language Requirement
The applicant must prove English at A1 level (initial visa) and A2 level (first extension). Exemptions apply for: nationals of majority English-speaking countries, those over 65, and certain disability/medical reasons.
How This Result Is Calculated
We work out the requirement from the rules that apply to you: £29,000 flat for new applications, or £18,600 plus £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each additional child on the pre-April 2024 rules. If income falls short we check whether savings cover it (£16,000 + 2.5 × shortfall). We also check whether the applicant's English ability meets or is exempt from the requirement. Both checks must pass for an overall "likely eligible" result.
Assumptions
- Thresholds are the Appendix FM figures in force on 29 October 2026.
- Income is gross, from employment that meets the evidence rules. Self-employment, pension and other non-employment income have their own evidence rules that this calculator does not check.
Limitations
- This tool does not assess accommodation requirements, relationship evidence standards, or character/criminality checks.
- Sponsors on certain disability or carer benefits can meet a lower "adequate maintenance" test instead. This calculator does not model that test.
- Immigration Rules change periodically — see the "Rules Checked" date above and always cross-check with GOV.UK before applying or paying any fees.
This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration advice. Page last reviewed 29 October 2026.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions — UK Spouse Visa
What is the current minimum income for a UK spouse visa?
£29,000 a year for applications made on or after 11 April 2024, with no extra for children. It is still £29,000 as of 29 October 2026. Confirm on GOV.UK's family visa income page, before applying.
Can savings count toward the income requirement?
Yes. Cash held for at least six months can cover a shortfall. You need £16,000 plus 2.5 times the gap between your income and £29,000. For example, income of £20,000 is £9,000 short, so you need £16,000 + £22,500 = £38,500 in savings. With no income you need £88,500. The calculator above does this sum for you.
Sources
UK Spouse Visa Eligibility Checker results are estimates only and do not constitute immigration or legal advice. Immigration rules change frequently — always verify the current rules on GOV.UK Family Visa before submitting any application or paying any fees. For complex cases, consult a licensed immigration professional (RCIC in Canada, IAA-registered (formerly OISC) adviser in the UK, MARA agent in Australia).