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UK introduces higher salary threshold for family visa
Immigration has emerged as a significant focal point in the upcoming general elections in the UK, with surveys suggesting that PM Sunak's Conservative Party is poised for a substantial setback
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In addition to the changes in income thresholds, the UK government has also introduced strict regulations on student visas / X - @RishiSunak
The United Kingdom unveiled an increase in the minimum income threshold necessary to sponsor a family member's visa, aligning with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's efforts to reduce immigration levels.
The income benchmark has been elevated from US$23,267 (18,600 pounds) to US$36,277 (29,000 pounds), marking a surge of over 55 percent, effective immediately. Additionally, there are plans for a further escalation to US$48,411 (38,700 pounds) scheduled for early next year.
"Today's change comes as the Home Secretary meets his commitment to implement his major package of reforms to the immigration system within weeks of announcing them - which came following the unveiling of measures to tighten the student visa route in May 2023," the UK government said in a statement.
Immigration has emerged as a significant focal point in the upcoming general elections in the UK, with surveys suggesting that PM Sunak's Conservative Party is poised for a substantial setback. The new regulations are part of his plan to "cut unsustainable and unfair levels of migration, and ensure those arriving here do not burden the taxpayer".
The Secretary of State for the Home Department James Cleverly outlined the reasoning behind the recent policy adjustment, emphasizing the necessity of alleviating the pressures associated with large-scale migration. "We have reached a tipping point with mass migration. There is no simple solution or easy decision which cuts numbers to levels acceptable to the British people," he said.
Cleverly emphasized the UK government's dedication to protecting British workers and wages, as well as ensuring that individuals moving to the UK do not become dependent on public assistance.
The updated income requirement aims to ensure that families wishing to reunite in the UK demonstrate self-sufficiency. It allows for different methods of meeting the threshold, such as savings and income from employment.
"I promised action and we have delivered at remarkable speed. We've acted to cut unsustainable numbers, to protect British workers and their wages, to ensure those bringing family to the UK do not burden taxpayers, and to build an immigration system fit for the future - and one the public can rightly have confidence in," Cleverly added.
In addition to the changes in income thresholds, the UK government has also introduced strict regulations on student visas. Furthermore, there has been a significant 66 percent increase in the health surcharge for foreign nationals accessing the National Health Service (NHS).
The UK government aims to reduce current immigration figures, which stand at 745,000, to 300,000.
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