The UK government has announced that starting April 9, 2025, the costs for various visa categories, including visit, work, and study visas, will increase. These changes will impact visa applications, with some types of visas facing more significant price hikes than others. Below is a detailed comparison of key visa categories' previous and new fees.
Visit Visa Fee Increases
- Short-term visit visa (up to 6 months): Previously £115, now £127.
- Long-term visit visa (2 years): Previously £432, now £475.
- Long-term visit visa (5 years): Previously £771, now £848.
- Long-term visit visa (10 years): Previously £963, now £1,059.
Work Visa Fee Increases
- Skilled Worker Visa (up to 3 years): Previously £719, now £769.
- Skilled Worker Visa (more than 3 years): Previously £1,420, now £1,519.
- Health and Care Visa (up to 3 years): Previously £284, now £304.
- Health and Care Visa (over 3 years): Previously £551, now £590.
- Tier 1 (Investor) Visa: Previously £1,884, now £2,000.
- Global Talent (Stage 1 endorsement): previously £192, now £205.
The Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) fees for Skilled Workers, Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Workers, Ministers of Religion, and International Sportspersons for periods over 12 months will rise from £239 to £525.
Study Visa Fee Increases
- Student Visa: Previously £490, now £524.
- Child Student Visa: Previously £490, now £524.
- Short-term Study Visa (6–11 months): Previously £200, now £214.
Settlement and Citizenship Fee Increases
For those seeking long-term residence or citizenship in the UK, the following fees have increased:
- Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): Previously £2,885, now £3,029.
- Naturalisation (British Citizenship): Previously £1,500, now £1,605.
- Convention Travel Document (for children): Previously £53, now £61.50.
Interestingly, some premium services, such as the Super Priority Visa Service (£1,000) and Priority Visa Service (£500), will remain unchanged, allowing applicants to maintain expedited processing options at the exact cost.
These fee increases will result in higher costs for individuals and businesses relying on UK visa applications. Whether you are an international student, skilled worker, or visitor, it is essential to budget for these additional expenses.
In conclusion, while these fee increases pose a financial challenge, staying informed and planning accordingly can help mitigate the impact. For full details on the new Immigration and nationality fee, visit the UK's Home Office official website.
