UK visa fees increased: Read complete updated UK visa fee details here

London, UK — The UK government has unveiled plans to increase visa fees for nearly all categories of immigration and nationality applications, effective April 9, 2025. The Home Office confirmed the changes on its official website, citing adjustments to “balance the cost of processing applications and fund public services.”

Key Fee Increases

1. Visit Visas

• 6-month Standard Visitor Visa: Rises from £115 to £127 (+£12).
• 2-year Visitor Visa: Increases from £432 to £475 (+£43).
• 5-year Visitor Visa: Jumps by £77 (exact new fee not specified).
• 10-year Visitor Visa: Rises by £96 (exact new fee not specified).

2. Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

• Fee increases by £6, now costing applicants £16.

3. Student Visas

• Standard Student Visa: Increases by £34, from £490 to £524.
• Short-Term Student Visa (6–11 months for English language): Rises from £200 to £214 (+£14).

4. Work Visas

• Fees for all work visa categories, including sponsorship licenses, will rise. Examples:
  • Worker Sponsor Licence (Small Sponsor): Increased fee (exact amount pending).
  • Worker Sponsor Licence (Large Sponsor): Higher rate confirmed.

5. Citizenship & Naturalization

• Naturalization (British Citizenship): Surges from £1,500 to £1,605 (+£105).

Impact on Applicants

The hikes will affect tourists, students, skilled workers, and families seeking residency or citizenship. The government emphasized that the updated fees reflect “the value of UK visas and the benefits they provide.” Critics, however, argue the increases could deter international talent and strain families navigating the immigration system.

Official Guidance

A full list of revised fees for all visa and sponsorship categories is available on the UK Government’s official website (www.gov.uk). Prospective applicants are advised to review the latest requirements before submitting applications post-April 9, 2025.