Plans needing people to make £38,700 a year before bringing family to the UK will be introduced in early 2025, Rishi Sunak has confirmed.

Staggered Increase in Threshold for Family Immigration Support

The UK government recently altered its plan to raise the income threshold for family immigration, opting for a phased approach instead of an immediate increase. Originally set to rise from £18,600 to a higher level in one step, it will now see a two-stage increment.

Revised Timeline

In the upcoming spring, the threshold will ascend to £29,000, followed by the final increase taking effect in early 2025.

Defending the Decision

Chancellor Rishi Sunak, speaking in Lincoln, justified the phased approach, emphasizing the importance of supporting dependants brought into the country.

He reiterated the government’s commitment but clarified the adjustment in implementation as a two-stage process. Sunak also expressed concerns about high migration levels, advocating for a reduction.

Political Implications

The revised immigration rules will likely become a focal point for scrutiny, particularly considering the timing of the next general election, scheduled by January 2025. This move could prompt rigorous questioning of Labour’s stance on the proposed regulations.