Move Up guides
Evidence supports the facts behind a family application. A generic document list cannot decide which route applies or how a particular household should present its case.
The UK partner's status, the relationship, financial circumstances, accommodation and other applicable requirements need to be considered together. A document that establishes one fact does not necessarily establish the others.
Employment changes, mixed income sources, time apart or conflicting records can change the enquiry. The useful question is what needs to be established in your circumstances. Move Up can discuss the review and preparation needed within an agreed scope.
This hypothetical returning British sponsor remains employed in South Africa when applying, has been with the same employer for more than six months and earns a constant gross annual salary of R660,000. A confirmed UK job offer pays £33,000 and starts six weeks after the intended return.
Assume the ordinary new-partner route with the usual £29,000 minimum income threshold, rather than a transitional or benefit exception. The remaining requirements have not been assessed.
At an illustrative R22/£, the overseas annual salary is £30,000. At R23/£ it is £28,695.65. The prescribed application-date conversion applies in the actual case. Do not add the South African and UK salaries together.
| Fact to establish | Evidence to reconcile | When to check |
|---|---|---|
| Overseas employment period, salary and employment type | Employer letter, six months of payslips and matching personal bank statements, or acceptable overseas equivalents | Gather and reconcile month by month |
| Confirmed UK salary and a start date within three months of return | UK employer letter confirming the details or enclosing a signed contract | Obtain before applying; recheck if the return date changes |
| Currency conversion and evidence freshness | Record the application date, prescribed conversion and latest required evidence | Where FM-SE requires a period ending at application, the latest part must be no earlier than 28 days before it |
The applicable financial category determines the records and period. The records should agree on the facts they establish. Explain and resolve inconsistencies before relying on them. This illustrates Category A questions; it does not confirm eligibility or provide a complete checklist. Have a qualified reviewer check the category, calculation, evidence and all other requirements before relying on the example.
Tell us what you would like to make possible and where you need clarity. We can discuss the appropriate support for your circumstances.
Contact Move UpRelated articles in their original publication context.
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The UK spouse visa financial requirement has increased sharply since 2012. We examine why the rule exists, how it affects British families, and why many are calling for a review.
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These GOV.UK references support the guidance on this page.
Official guidance checked on 12 October 2026. Recheck charges and rules for your application date.
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