The United Kingdom has raised its financial requirements for immigrants looking to study or work in the country, with new changes coming into effect from January 2025. As part of efforts to manage the impact of immigration on housing and the economy, the UK government has updated its rules to ensure that immigrants have enough funds to support themselves. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know.
Higher Financial Requirements for Students
Starting January 2, 2025, international students who plan to study in the UK will need to show they have sufficient funds for living expenses. If you’re studying in London, you’ll need £1,483 per month for living costs. If your course is outside London, the amount is lower at £1,136 per month.
For instance, if you’re starting a one-year Master’s program, you’ll need to demonstrate that you have at least:
- £13,347 (London: £1,483 × 9 months)
- £10,224 (Outside London: £1,136 × 9 months)
These funds must have been in your account for 28 consecutive days before applying for your visa.
This is an increase from previous requirements, where students needed to show £1,334 per month for courses in London and £1,023 per month for courses outside the capital. If you already live in the UK, you’re exempt from these financial requirements, and certain nationalities also benefit from these exemptions.
Increased Financial Threshold for Families
There are also major changes for immigrants applying for a family visa. The minimum income threshold for a family visa is set to rise from £18,600 to £29,000, and it will increase further to £38,700 by early 2025. This change is aimed at ensuring that families moving to the UK can fully support themselves without relying on public funds.
If you’re bringing children, you’ll need to show additional financial support. For the first child, you’ll need to have £3,800 per year, with an extra £2,400 for each additional child. However, if your children are British, Irish, or citizens of certain European countries, you may be exempt from this requirement. Similarly, families who have been living in the UK for seven years may also be exempt from these higher financial thresholds.
New Financial Rules for Skilled Workers
For skilled workers applying for a visa, the minimum financial requirement has also risen. First-time applicants will now need to show that they have a salary above £29,000 and sufficient funds to cover their living and accommodation expenses in the UK.
If you are sponsored by a UK employer, you may be exempt from providing proof of these funds, as some employers cover the first month’s costs. However, the government has also introduced minor fee increases for visa applications, including tourist, family, spouse, and child visas. Certain groups, such as health workers, armed forces personnel, and individuals with specific disabilities, will continue to receive exemptions.
Conclusion
These updates to the UK’s financial requirements highlight the government’s intent to ensure that immigrants are financially stable before moving to the country. Whether you’re coming to study, work, or join family in the UK, it’s important to understand and plan for these new thresholds. Make sure you have the required funds in your account for 28 days before applying, and stay informed of any further updates that may affect your visa application.
For more detailed information, visit the official UK government website or consult with immigration experts to guide you through the process.
