For Pakistani students, the “Maintenance Requirement” is the #1 reason for visa refusals. UKVI caseworkers do not look for “lots of money”; they look for stable money that follows specific administrative laws.

1. The 2026 Financial Thresholds

As of the latest updates, the amount you must show depends on your university’s location. You must prove you have enough to cover your tuition fees for the first year plus 9 months of living costs.

Updated Living Costs (Monthly)

Location	Monthly Requirement	Total (9 Months)
Inner London	£1,529	£13,761
Outside London	£1,171	£10,539

Synergy Tip: Always add a “Currency Buffer” of 5-10% in PKR. If the Pound gets stronger against the Rupee during your 28-day period, and your balance falls even £1 below the limit, your visa will be rejected.

2. The 28-Day & 31-Day Rules

These are the two most important timeframes in your application.

• The 28-Day Rule: The full amount (Tuition + Living Costs) must be in your account for 28 consecutive days. The balance must never drop below the required amount, even for a single minute.
• The 31-Day Rule: Your bank statement must be issued no more than 31 days before the date you submit and pay for your online visa application.

3. Acceptable Bank Statement Format

A standard ATM mini-statement or a mobile app screenshot is not acceptable. Your statement must include:

1. Official Letterhead: Bank’s name and logo.
2. Account Holder Name: Must match your passport (or your parent’s).
3. Account Number: Clearly visible.
4. Date of Issue: Must be within 31 days of application.
5. Running Balance: Shows daily transactions or a clear start/end balance.
6. Official Stamp & Signature: While digital statements are becoming more common, UKVI still prefers a stamped and signed copy from the branch for Pakistani banks.

4. Whose Account Can You Use?

In 2026, the rules for “Sponsorship” are very strict:

• Self: Your own personal bank account.
• Parents: Your mother or father’s account. You must provide your Birth Certificate (FRC) and a Consent Letter signed by them.
• Legal Guardian: Only if appointed by a court (must provide court documents).
• NOT ALLOWED: You cannot use accounts belonging to brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts, or cousins—even if they provide an affidavit.

5. UKVI-Approved Banks in Pakistan (2026)

While there is no “fixed” list, UKVI only accepts banks that use electronic record keeping and allow verification.

• Top Recommended: HBL, UBL, MCB, Allied Bank, Bank Alfalah, Standard Chartered.
• Investment Accounts: Shares, Bonds, or Pensions are NOT accepted. The money must be in a current or savings account (Cash funds).

6. Pro-Tips from Synergy Solutions

As a leader in UK education consulting in Satellite Town, Rawalpindi, we recommend:

• Avoid Large Deposits: If you deposit 50 Lakh PKR in one go, provide a “Source of Funds” (e.g., sale of property or salary accumulation) to avoid suspicion.
• Verify with OANDA: UKVI uses OANDA.com for currency conversion. Check the rate there before submitting.

Contact Us

Need an expert to audit your bank statement before you pay the visa fee? Visit our office or call us today.

• Address: 78/3, JR Arcade, Iran Rd, A Block Satellite Town, Rawalpindi.
• WhatsApp: +92 349 5556888
• Website: www.synergysltd.com
• London Hub: Suite 105, 246-250 Romford Rd, London E7 9HZ.