What is the Minimum Financial Requirement?
The Minimum Financial Requirement (MFR) is the income threshold the UK sponsor must meet to bring a spouse or partner to the UK on a family visa. It exists to ensure the couple can support themselves without recourse to public funds.
Whose income counts?
Only the UK sponsor's income counts toward the MFR — not the overseas applicant's income. If the sponsor is employed, their gross annual salary is used. Self-employed sponsors use their net profit from the last full tax year. Cash savings above £16,000 can also be used to top up income.
What income does not count?
The following income sources do not count toward the MFR: the applicant's overseas income, income from Universal Credit or most other public funds, and savings below the £16,000 floor.
What evidence do I need?
For employment income: last 6 months of payslips and a letter from your employer. For self-employment: SA302 tax calculation and tax year overview from HMRC. For savings: 6 months of bank statements showing the funds have been held continuously.
What if I do not meet the threshold?
If you do not meet the MFR, your options include: increasing your income, using savings above £16,000 to top up, waiting until your income increases, or seeking advice on whether any exceptional circumstances apply to your case.