Why the minimum income rule catches couples out, and how to plan for it

Most partner applications that fail do not fail on the relationship. They fail on money, and usually on a detail the couple could have fixed months earlier.

The rule in one sentence

The British or settled partner has to show a set level of income or savings, in a set way, over a set period. The level changes from time to time, so always check the current figure on GOV.UK before you plan around it.

Where couples get caught

Income that is real but paid in the wrong way. Cash in hand, a new job that has not run long enough, or self-employed income without the accounts to prove it. The Home Office counts what the rules let it count, not what you actually earn.

Savings that moved at the wrong time. Savings usually have to be held for a period before you apply, and a large deposit just before the application starts that clock again.

How to plan for it

Start with a call six months before you want to apply. We look at how you are paid now, which category fits, and what the evidence should look like on the day. Most problems are timing problems, and timing is easy to fix early.

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Your route depends on your own circumstances.