What is the minimum income for a UK spouse/partner visa?

For new partner applications the minimum income requirement is generally £29,000 gross per year. Applicants who entered the route before 11 April 2024 may continue on legacy thresholds when extending with the same partner.

Is the spouse visa income before or after tax?

It is a gross (before tax) requirement. Evidence must show gross pay and regularity with payslips and matching bank statements.

How much cash savings do I need if salary is not enough?

Use the formula: Required Savings = £16,000 + (2.5 × income shortfall). For savings-only at a £29,000 MIR this equals £88,500. Savings must be held for at least 6 months in the applicant or sponsor’s name(s).

What counts as cash savings?

Readily accessible funds under the applicant or sponsor’s control such as current or savings accounts. Funds must be lawfully sourced and held for 6 months. Third-party funds generally do not qualify unless transferred and seasoned.

What income sources can meet the MIR?

UKVI accepts salaried employment, variable employment, non-employment income, cash savings, pension income and self-employment/director income (with full financial-year evidence).

How many months of bank statements are needed?

Typically 6 months for salaried income with matching payslips and deposits. Savings require statements covering the full 6-month holding period. Self-employment relies on the last full financial year with supporting bank evidence.

Does the income requirement change if children apply?

For new partner entries the regime uses a single headline MIR figure. Legacy cases and some dependant scenarios differ, so the exact threshold depends on your route.

What is the minimum bank balance for a UK visit visa?

There is no fixed minimum. Applicants must show sufficient funds for their trip and a reliable source of those funds. The family route follows MIR rules instead of a generic balance.

Do I need bank statements for a UK spouse visa?

Yes. Provide bank statements to prove salary deposits or savings. Employment cases usually include 6 months of payslips and matching bank statements. Savings must be evidenced for the full 6-month holding period.

Can I bring my South African wife to the UK?

Yes. South Africans can apply for a UK Spouse Visa to join their British or settled partner. Move Up assists South Africans daily with spouse visa applications, guiding you through the evidence UKVI expects so you avoid unnecessary refusals.

What are the requirements for a UK family visa?

Applicants must prove a genuine relationship, meet a minimum income threshold, have suitable accommodation, and demonstrate English ability. Move Up provides a tailored checklist and legal oversight, giving you peace of mind your application is watertight.

How long does it take to bring family to the UK?

Most family visa decisions from South Africa take 12–24 weeks. Priority services may cut this to around 30 working days. Move Up tracks applications closely and ensures your file is complete, reducing costly delays.

How much do I need to earn to bring my family to the UK?

The current income threshold is £29,000 per year (as of 2025). Move Up provides financial templates and legal checks to ensure you meet UKVI’s strict calculations with confidence.

How much does a UK visa cost from South Africa?

The UK partner visa costs around £1,846 plus the Immigration Health Surcharge (£1,035 per year). Priority processing costs extra. Move Up helps ensure your investment is not wasted on an avoidable refusal.

What are the new rules for dependent visas in the UK?

Recent changes increased the income threshold and tightened checks. Move Up monitors all updates so your application is based on the latest law.

Who qualifies for a family visa in the UK?

Family visas cover spouses, partners, children, and in limited cases, dependent relatives. Move Up ensures you apply under the correct category, saving you from costly mistakes.