Starting May 17, 2025, the UK has introduced tougher financial requirements across major visa categories, affecting students, skilled workers, tourists, and family visa applicants.
Key Updates:
Student Visa: Applicants must show higher living costs — £1,483/month in London and £1,136 outside. Funds must be held for 28 consecutive days and supported by recent bank statements.
Skilled Worker Visa: Minimum salary threshold now stands at £38,700 for standard applicants, with exceptions for PhD holders and jobs on the Immigration Salary List.
Visitor Visa: No fixed amount, but visitors must prove they can cover travel, accommodation, and expenses — typically budgeting £1,500–£2,500 for short stays.
Family Visa: The income threshold has jumped to £29,000 to ensure applicants can support their families.
Visa Fees: Application costs have increased by £5–£50, and ETA charges for visa-exempt travelers have also gone up.
Bottom Line: Whether studying, working, or visiting, being financially prepared is now critical for UK visa success in 2025. Plan ahead and ensure your documents meet the new standards.