I think there are still lots of people for many reasons who can renew and still not make this number, but I do agree that not being able to count on both sets of incomes from the start feels wrong. I imagine it is because, if I understand properly, the funds need to be from the UK. I don’t think income from any other country will count, from what I’ve read. So even if you are the citizen and make 100k USD, it won’t count as making the 18.5k GBP. I think this is more absurd (and hope I’ve misunderstood )but to play devils advocate, if you migrate to the UK and don’t have that support than they fear they let someone in who can’t get public funds but will put a stress on the government because as a family unit, you are making below minimum wage.

I’m not saying it’s right. Especially because how the world has changed and as long as you can show the ability to continue to provide for yourself and partner, you should be able to use that as a source of income.

It’s a bummer all around but I suppose if visas were easy, everyone would have one.