The three earnings thresholds
The thresholds are tied to UK tax bands, which makes them easy to remember. They will move in line with any future changes to tax and National Insurance thresholds.
| Threshold | Tax link | Years needed | Effect |
|---|---|---|---|
| £12,571 | Where basic rate income tax starts | 5 of the last 7 | Minimum contribution for the 10-year pathway |
| £50,271 | Higher rate | 3 of the last 5 | 5-year pathway |
| £125,141 | Additional rate | 3 of the last 4 | 3-year pathway |
The faster 3-year and 5-year earnings pathways apply to the high-talent routes: Skilled Worker (including Health and Care), Global Talent, Scale-up, Innovator Founder and International Sportsperson. On other routes, earnings above £12,571 do not shorten the pathway.
The best years approach
You do not need to hit the threshold every year. The test looks at your best years within a longer window, so a year or two of lower earnings, for example during maternity or paternity leave, illness or a change of job, will not automatically count against you.
See which pathway applies to you, and your earliest estimated date.
Check my pathwayCouples
Partners in a genuine and subsisting relationship can combine their earnings to meet the minimum contribution. Only one partner can rely on the other’s income for this. If your household earns at least £25,142 between you, you meet the threshold together, even if one of you earns less than £12,571.
Who is exempt?
- Children under 18
- Young adults aged 18 to 24 settling with their family
- People aged 65 and over
- People with a physical or mental condition that prevents them meeting the requirement
See exemptions.
Refugees
Refugees on the Protection Work and Study route need to show at least £12,571 a year in 3 qualifying years if they are working. Education or training can also count. See refugees.
What evidence will I need?
The Home Office has not yet said exactly how earnings will be checked, but it is sensible to keep P60s, payslips, tax returns and HMRC records for at least the last 7 years.
Questions and answers
Does self-employed income count?
The response refers to earnings generally. How self-employed income is assessed is expected to be set out in guidance.
Are the thresholds fixed?
They are linked to tax thresholds. If tax bands change, the settlement thresholds may change with them. Check the latest figures before you apply.
This is not legal advice. This guide explains the Government’s published proposals for Earned Settlement, which are not yet in force and may change. For advice on your own situation, speak to a regulated immigration adviser or solicitor, or check GOV.UK. Read our full disclaimer.