UK visa financial requirements for 2025: Everything you need to know

UK visa financial requirements for 2025 are more detailed and stringent than ever, making it crucial for applicants to fully understand what’s expected before submitting a UK visa application.

UK visa financial requirements 2025 explained

From the 28-day rule to acceptable financial evidence, maintenance funds, and new rules for dependents, this guide breaks down what each visa category requires. With updated thresholds and important changes taking effect in 2025, it's essential to plan ahead and ensure your documentation meets Home Office standards.

General financial principles for UK visas & what they mean

No Recourse to Public Funds (NRPF)

Most UK visa holders are not allowed to access public benefits. This means applicants must prove they can financially support themselves (and any dependents) throughout their stay.

The 28-Day Rule

Applicants must show they’ve held the required amount of money for at least 28 consecutive days. The final date on your financial documents must be no more than 31 days before your application submission.

What counts as acceptable financial evidence?

Valid evidence includes:

• Personal bank or building society statements

• Student loans (government-backed)

• Certificates of deposit (with instant access)

• Official letters confirming sponsorship

Unacceptable forms include overdrafts, cryptocurrency, or unregulated bank accounts. All documents must clearly show the applicant's name and financial institution.

UK Student visa: Updated living costs & rules

For UK Student visa applications submitted on or after January 2, 2025, students must demonstrate they can cover:

• Living costs: Required for up to 9 months. 28-day rule applies.

  • £1,483/month in London.

  • £1,136/month outside London

  • Up to 9 months of costs required

• Course fees: As stated in the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS). Must show enough funds to cover fees.

• Total for 9 months: Based on max maintenance requirement.

  • £13,347 (London)

  • £10,224 (Outside London)

• Dependents: Applies to Parent of a Child Student route.

  • £845/month (London)

  • £680/month (Outside London)

  • New rule (March 11, 2024): Most students can no longer bring dependents unless enrolled in a PhD or government-funded course lasting over six months.

• Accommodation offset: You may reduce your maintenance requirement by up to one month’s cost if you've prepaid for housing.

UK Skilled Worker Visa: Higher salary thresholds in 2025

• Maintenance funds: £1,270 (unless covered by your employer via the Certificate of Sponsorship)

• Dependents: Must show separate proof of maintenance

• Restriction: Care workers and senior care workers can no longer bring dependents (as of March 11, 2024)

Visa fees vary, with a 3-year Skilled Worker visa typically costing around £3,656 when you include the Immigration Health Surcharge.

UK Family Visa (Spouse/Partner Route): Rising income requirements

From April 11, 2024, the minimum income requirement for a UK partner visa has increased to £29,000 per year. For those extending a visa granted before this date, the old threshold of £18,600 still applies.

For applicants with children

• First child: +£3,800

• Each additional child: +£2,400

• Cap: If total income requirement exceeds £29,000, only that amount must be shown

Alternative route

Cash savings of £88,500 (held for six months) can be used instead of income.

Exceptions exist for sponsors receiving certain disability or carer's benefits. While income thresholds don’t apply in these cases, applicants must still show sufficient means of support.

UK Visitor Visas: Budgeting for short-term travel

While there is no fixed financial threshold for UK tourist or visitor visas, applicants must prove they can:

• Support themselves

• Pay for accommodation

• Cover return or onward travel

A suggested budget for a typical 6-month stay ranges between £1,500 and £2,500. Recommended documents include:

• Recent bank statements (3–6 months)

• Payslips and employer letters

• Proof of travel and accommodation bookings

Fees for standard visitor visas:

• 6 months: £127

• 2 years: £475

• 5 years: £848

• 10 years: £1,059

Also, from January 8, 2025, certain nationalities (e.g., US citizens) must obtain an UK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) costing £16, valid for two years. Additional charges may apply.

Plan ahead, stay compliant

The financial requirements for UK visas in 2025 are detailed, and in many cases, stricter than before. Whether you're applying for a student visa, a Skilled Worker visa, or joining family in the UK, preparation is key. Ensure you meet the financial thresholds, have the right documentation, and understand the recent changes.

Failing to meet the requirements—even by a small margin—can lead to delays or rejections. When in doubt, consult a qualified immigration advisor or solicitor.