Income & Financial Requirements — Family Routes & Variations
This guide explains income thresholds, savings tests and acceptable evidence for spouse and family settlement routes. Use our calculate your ILR timeline tool to combine financial readiness with qualifying dates and absences.
Income rules for family routes (overview)
The financial requirement for most spouse/partner routes is designed to ensure the sponsor can support the applicant without recourse to public funds. Typical elements include a minimum gross income threshold, acceptable savings, and documentary proof such as payslips and P60s. Thresholds differ if you have non-British children or if you rely on savings rather than income.
Typical thresholds and variants
- Main route (example) — the typical minimum income is the published baseline (historic common figure used was £18,600; official figures should be checked for the route and year you apply).
- With dependent children — higher thresholds apply if you sponsor a child, with additional amounts for each dependent.
- Savings route — large cash savings can substitute for income; there is a formula to convert savings into an equivalent income figure (check official guidance for the exact calculation).
Common documentation
- Payslips covering the relevant period (usually 6 months to 12 months depending on the route).
- P60 year-end certificates.
- Employment contracts and employer confirmation letters on company letterhead.
- Bank statements evidencing salary credits or declared savings.
- For self-employed applicants: SA302 tax calculations and business records.
One authoritative reference
Always verify the exact numerical thresholds and acceptable evidence on GOV.UK. The government guidance sets out the financial requirement rules and examples. GOV.UK — partner and family visa guidance (financial requirements)
Practical checklist to prepare evidence
- Collect payslips and a covering employer letter confirming salary, hours and length of employment.
- Obtain P60s for the relevant tax years.
- If relying on savings, prepare an itemised savings statement and calculate the equivalent income using the official formula.
- For any irregular income (commission, bonuses), include explanatory notes and payroll summaries.
Common pitfalls
- Using bank statements alone — without employer confirmation — can cause requests for further evidence.
- Failing to reconcile payslips and bank credits (differences should be explained in a cover note).
- Not accounting for pension contributions or irregular overtime that affects gross/net comparisons.
Related guides
- Absence Calculator Guide — counting absences & the 180-day test
- Continuous Residence Guide — 5 and 10 year rules explained
- Settlement Route Eligibility Guide — choose the right pathway
FAQs
Can savings alone meet the financial requirement?
Yes, but only when savings exceed a specific threshold and are evidenced during the application. There is an official formula converting savings into an equivalent income; check GOV.UK for the calculation and documentary requirements.
What counts as acceptable income evidence?
Typically payslips, P60s and a signed employer letter on company letterhead are accepted. For self-employed applicants, HMRC SA302s and business bank statements are commonly requested.
Does time on a sponsored work visa count towards family route financial tests?
Financial tests are route-specific; previous immigration history does not substitute for the current evidence required. Use the Settlement Route Eligibility Guide for cross-route planning.
Published: September 15, 2025 — prepare your financial evidence early and calculate your ILR timeline before applying.