Understanding Category B Employment Income for UK Partner and Spouse Visas

Meeting the UK spouse visa financial requirement under Appendix FM can be one of the most complex parts of applying for a UK Partner or Family Visa. While many applicants rely on Category A employment income (where the sponsor has been with the same employer for at least six months), those with new employment, variable income, or overseas earnings often need to apply under Category B.

At Clarkslegal, our immigration specialists support families in preparing strong, compliant applications under Appendix FM, ensuring income is calculated accurately and evidence meets Home Office specifications.

When Category B Income Applies

Your income may need to be assessed under Category B if:

• You have been in your current job for less than six months;
• You have variable income, such as commission, overtime, or freelance/contract work;
• You are returning to the UK with a confirmed job offer starting within three months of your return; or
• You are a high earner meeting the annual threshold in under six months with your new employer.

The Current Spouse Visa Financial Requirement

Since 11 April 2024, the minimum partner visa income threshold is:

• £29,000 gross annual income; or
• A combination of income and cash savings (at least £16,000 plus an additional calculated amount); or
• Specified savings alone, if sufficient.

For applications made outside the UK, only the sponsor’s income can be used to meet the financial requirement.

How Category B Income Is Calculated

Under Appendix FM Category B, income is assessed in two parts:

1. Current income at the date of application – the gross annual salary if salaried, or the average of the last six months if income is variable; and
2. Income earned in the 12 months prior to the application – to show that the overall threshold is met.

Both parts must satisfy the £29,000 minimum income requirement unless savings or other sources are combined to meet the threshold.

Combining Income with Other Sources

If employment income alone is not enough to meet the requirement, it may be combined with:

• Non-employment income – such as rental income or dividends;
• Cash savings of at least £16,000, held for six months; or
• Pension income – including state, occupational, or private pensions.

However, certain combinations are restricted, so specialist advice is essential.

Common Scenarios We Support

• New UK job: A sponsor who switched jobs recently and needs to rely on both current and previous employment income.
• Variable income earners: Contractors, freelancers, or commission-based employees with fluctuating earnings.
• Returning sponsors: British citizens moving back to the UK with a confirmed job offer starting within three months.

Why Choose Clarkslegal

Applying under Category B of Appendix FM requires careful planning and strict attention to evidence. Our experienced immigration team will:

• Assess your eligibility and calculate your income accurately;
• Identify and combine permissible income sources;
• Prepare and review your evidence to meet the Home Office’s strict criteria; and
• Guide you through the application process to minimise delays or the risk of refusal.

Speak to our UK Immigration Experts

If you’re preparing a UK spouse visa or partner visa application and need advice on meeting the financial requirement under Category B, our team can help you prepare a clear and compliant case.

Clarkslegal’s immigration lawyers are here to help. For further information or if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our immigration lawyers.