A couple who do not earn enough money are being denied a life together due to unfair immigration rules, it is claimed.

Foreign non-EU nationals can only stay living in the UK with their British partners if they collectively earn more than £18,600 a year, under Home Office visa guidelines.

However campaign group Citizen UK say this only applies to 43 per cent of the country, leading to couples being torn apart as people born abroad are sent home.

A Walthamstow couple, who asked only to be identified as Florence and Veli, say they are facing being separated by the rule.

Florence, 49, moved to Walthamstow from the Philippines in 2002 and settled in Priory Avenue.

Seven years ago and later married met Veli, a 55-year-old British citizen.

They sought indefinite leave for Florence to enable them to build a life together.

But they have been told they do not meet the earnings threshold she may have to leave the country.

Florence, who works as a cleaner, said: “It is very scary.

“There is a real possibility I will be taken from my husband at any time.

“£18,600 is a lot of money. My husband is not working because he is sick so we just don’t have that kind of money.

“At any point they can take me off and separate us.

“I worry about what he would do without me, who would care for him?

“The solicitor is looking at my options but there is a realistic chance I cannot stay.”

 “I do believe I contribute to the economy and society

 “We don’t want any special favours, we just want to be together.”

The congregation at St Barnabas Church in Saint Barnabas Road, Walthamstow, are supporting Citizens UK’s call for a change to the rules.   

Canon Steven Saxby said: 'It is heartbreaking that this lovely couple could be divided because of the current spousal visa arrangements.

“I hope others will support Citizens' call for change and help keep couples like Flo and Veli together."

The couple delivered a Valentine’s Day card to Stella Creasy, Walthamstow MP, to ask for her support.

The Citizen UK campaign 'Fair Price for a Family Life' can be viewed here.