The United Kingdom is set to introduce revised visa fees, with changes expected to take effect on October 4, according to the UK Home Office. The adjustments, aimed at funding essential services and contributing to public sector pay increases, will impact various visa categories, including visit visas and student visas. Here’s what you need to know:
Why UK New Visa Fees in news?
Key Updates
- Visa Fee Hike: The proposed visa fee changes were tabled in the British Parliament and await parliamentary approval.
- Visit Visa Costs: For stays under six months, the cost of a visit visa will increase by £15, bringing the total to £115.
- Student Visa Fees: Student visas will become £127 more expensive for applicants from various countries, including India. The fee for applying for a student visa from outside the UK will be £490, equivalent to the amount charged for in-country applications.
- Work and Visit Visas: Most work and visit visas will see a 15% fee increase, while priority visas, study visas, and certificates of sponsorship will experience a minimum 20% cost rise.
- Supporting Public Services: The fee adjustments are designed to generate revenue for vital public services and to reduce the financial burden on British taxpayers while maintaining an attractive immigration system for those seeking to work in the UK.
Impact Across Visa Categories
The fee increases apply to various visa categories, including but not limited to:
- Health and care visas
- Applications for British citizenship registration and naturalization
- Visit visas for durations of up to six months, two years, five years, and ten years
- Entry clearance fees
- Applications for leave to remain in the UK for work and study
- Fees related to indefinite leave to enter and remain
- Costs associated with certificates of sponsorship and confirmation of acceptance for studies.
FAQs related to UK New Visa Fees
When will the new visa fees come into effect?
The revised visa fees are expected to take effect on October 4, 2023, subject to parliamentary approval.
Why are these visa fee changes being introduced?
The adjustments aim to generate funds for essential public services and contribute to public sector wage increases while maintaining an appealing immigration system.
How much will the visit visa cost for stays under six months after the fee increase?
Following the fee increase, the cost of a visit visa for stays under six months will be £115.
How much will student visas cost for applicants from affected countries?
Student visas for applicants from various countries, including India, will be £127 more expensive, with a total fee of £490 for applications made from outside the UK.
Which visa categories will see a 15% fee increase, and which will experience a minimum 20% rise?
Most work and visit visas will see a 15% fee increase, while priority visas, study visas, and certificates of sponsorship will have a minimum 20% cost rise.