Applying for a UK spouse visa can be daunting, especially when it comes to proving financial eligibility. A common misconception is that the UK-based sponsor must provide six months of payslips to meet the income requirement. However, under UK immigration rules, there are circumstances where fewer than six months’ payslips may be sufficient.
This guide explains how you can apply for a UK spouse visa with less than six months of payslips, ensuring you meet the financial criteria set out in Appendix FM of the Immigration Rules.
Applying for a UK Spouse Visa with Less Than Six Months of Payslips
Many people assume that applying for a UK spouse visa requires the UK-based sponsor to provide six full months of payslips. However, this isn’t always the case. In reality, UK immigration rules allow some flexibility, and in certain situations, fewer payslips may be enough to meet the financial requirement.
Understanding the Financial Requirement
When applying for a UK spouse visa under Appendix FM, one of the key criteria is proving that the UK sponsor meets the minimum income threshold. If the sponsor has been in their current job for less than six months, their income can still count towards the application as long as they meet the financial requirement in one of the following ways:
Proving an Annual Salary of at Least £29,000
- The sponsor must show they are earning at least £29,000 per year.
- This can be proven with their most recent payslip or an employment contract if the payslip doesn’t clearly state the annual salary.
Demonstrating Earnings Over the Last 12 Months
- If the sponsor’s current job is recent, they can rely on income earned at any point in the past 12 months to meet the requirement.
- This is useful for sponsors who recently changed jobs or had a short break in employment.
How Many Payslips Are Needed?
The number of payslips required depends on how much the sponsor earns annually. The higher the salary, the fewer payslips needed:
| Gross Annual Salary | Number of Payslips Required |
| £348,000 or more | 1 |
| £174,000 or more | 2 |
| £116,000 or more | 3 |
| £87,000 or more | 4 |
| £69,600 or more | 5 |
This method is particularly helpful for high earners who have recently changed jobs or taken a short employment break.
5 Key Facts About Meeting the Financial Requirement
- It’s Not Just About Payslips – If the sponsor doesn’t have six months of payslips, they can still qualify by showing they have earned the required amount within the last year.
- Other Sources of Income Can Help – Savings, non-salaried income, and self-employment earnings may also count, depending on the case.
- Bonuses and Commissions May Count – If the sponsor earns extra through bonuses or commissions, these can sometimes be included as part of the total income.
- A Job Change Doesn’t Automatically Disqualify You – As long as the sponsor meets the income threshold, changing jobs within the past six months doesn’t mean the application will be refused.
- Professional Guidance Can Make a Difference – Immigration rules are complex, and seeking expert advice can help ensure all documents and evidence are presented correctly.
Need Help with Your Application?
Understanding UK visa requirements can be confusing, especially when it comes to finances. If you need professional support with your spouse visa UK application, Rees Clayton expert immigration barristers in London can assist you.
For personalised advice, call us at 02033939272 or fill out our online enquiry form today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply for a UK spouse visa if my sponsor has been in their job for less than six months?
Yes, as long as they meet the financial requirement by either proving an annual salary of at least £29,000 or showing they have earned the required amount in the past 12 months.
What if my sponsor doesn’t have payslips showing their annual salary?
If the payslips don’t indicate the annual salary, a signed employment contract confirming their earnings can be submitted as supporting evidence.
Can savings be used to meet the financial requirements?
Yes, savings above £16,000 can contribute to meeting the financial threshold. However, the specific amount needed depends on how much the shortfall is from the required salary.
Do self-employed sponsors follow the same rules?
No, self-employed individuals must provide financial records for the last full financial year, including tax returns and business accounts, instead of payslips.
Can bonuses and commission-based income be included?
In some cases, bonuses, commissions, and other variable income can be included, but they must be evidenced through payslips and employer confirmation.
