h2vzcXmQ
type: Answer
type: WrittenAnswer
answer has question: NlitJNVc
answer has answering person: psgM7FBk
answer text: We have no current plans to introduce a regionalised minimum income threshold for spouse or partner visa applications. The independent Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) considered this issue in its November 2011 report on the income threshold, which is available at the following link: http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/documents/aboutus/workingwithus/mac/family-migration-route/family-migration-route.pdf?view=Binary The MAC noted a number of arguments against setting a different income threshold by region and concluded that there was no clear case for doing so. For example, it would mean that a better-off sponsor in a relatively less well-off region would have to meet a lower income threshold than a poorer sponsor in a higher income region, and a requirement that varied by region could lead to sponsors moving to a lower threshold area in order to meet the requirement before returning once a visa was granted. The Government agreed with this assessment. Having a single, national income threshold also provides clarity and simplicity for applicants and caseworkers. The lawfulness of this approach was endorsed by the High Court in MM and Others.
answer given date: 2013-12-12+00:00
answer has answering body: NDZSYjeE
written answer has answering body: NDZSYjeE