UK visa fees increase announced from April 2026

Travelling to or settling in the United Kingdom is about to become more expensive, as the government has announced a broad increase in UK visa fees from April 8, 2026. The changes will affect millions of applicants across multiple visa categories, including visitor, work, student, and settlement visas.

Wide-Ranging Fee Increases

The UK Home Office has confirmed that UK visa fees will rise for visa applications, settlement, and nationality applications. These increases will apply to both overseas and in-country applications across major immigration routes.

Most visa categories will see moderate but consistent increases, usually between £20 and £100, depending on the type and duration of the visa. While the increases may appear small individually, they will add up when combined with the Immigration Health Surcharge, document expenses, and optional priority services, making it more expensive for anyone moving to or staying in the UK.

Visitor Visa Fees Rise

Short-term and long-term visitor visas will see increases across all durations. The standard six-month visit visa will rise from £127 to £135, while long-term visas will now cost:

• £506 for two years
• £903 for five years
• £1,128 for ten years

Since visitor visas are commonly used for tourism, business, and family visits, the changes will impact a wide range of travelers. Anyone planning to visit the UK should budget for these higher UK visa fees.

Work Visa Fees See Notable Hikes

Work visa fees, especially for the Skilled Worker route, are also increasing. Applications from outside the UK will rise to £819 for up to three years and £1,618 for longer stays. In-country applications will cost £943 and £1,865, respectively.

Health and Care visas will remain cheaper than standard Skilled Worker visas but will also increase to £324 for up to three years and £628 for longer durations.

Student Visa and Citizenship Fee Changes

Student visa fees will rise from £524 to £558 for both main applicants and dependents. Citizenship fees are also being updated:

• Naturalisation will rise from £1,605 to £1,709
• Adult registration will increase from £1,446 to £1,540

The fee for registering a child as a British citizen will decrease from £1,214 to £1,000, though a separate ceremony fee of £130 may still apply.

The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) fee will also increase from £16 to £20, affecting visa-free visitors, and transit visa fees will also rise, increasing the cost of travel to the UK.

Settlement applications, including Indefinite Leave to Remain, will increase from £1,938 to £2,064.

Fees That Will Stay the Same

Despite widespread increases, certain charges will remain unchanged. Priority and super-priority processing services will continue to cost £500 and £1,000, respectively. Sponsorship-related fees, such as the Certificate of Sponsorship (£525 for Skilled Workers, £55 for Temporary Workers) and Confirmation of Acceptance for Study (£55), will not change.

Officials advise that applicants submitting visa applications before April 8, 2026, will still pay the current lower fees. For families, frequent travelers, and migrants, applying early could save a significant amount on UK visa fees.

Overall Impact of the Fee Increase

The upcoming rise in UK visa fees will affect a wide range of applicants—from tourists and students to skilled workers and those seeking permanent settlement. Combined with other charges, including the Immigration Health Surcharge, the total cost of moving to or staying in the UK will increase considerably.

Applicants should plan carefully and consider applying early to avoid higher fees after April 8, 2026. These increases are moderate but widespread, and understanding them is essential for anyone preparing to travel, work, study, or settle in the UK.

By keeping track of the latest fee changes, travelers can better budget for their UK visas and avoid unexpected costs. Early application is particularly important for families and frequent visitors who could save significantly before the new UK visa fees take effect.