The UK Home Office has announced updates to immigration and nationality fees, effective from 9th April 2025. These changes will affect individuals planning to visit, work, study, or settle in the UK. Here is a clear overview of the revised fee structure, highlighting key changes and offering practical advice.
Overview of Fee Changes
The updated fees apply to a range of visa categories, nationality applications, and associated services. Key changes include:
Visit Visas: Short-term visit visas (up to 6 months) will increase from £115 to £127, with incremental rises for long-term visit visas.
Work Visas: Fees for work-related visas, such as the Innovator Founder and Start-up visas, will see increases.
Study Visas: Student visa fees for main applicants and dependants will rise from £490 to £524.
Nationality Applications: Naturalisation and registration fees for British citizenship will also increase.
Service | Current Fee | New Fee (from April 9th 2025) |
Visit visa – short up to 6 months | £115 | £127 |
Visit visa – long up to 2 years | £432 | £475 |
Route to Settlement | £1846 | £1938 |
Skilled worker-3 years – main applicant and dependants | £719 | £769 |
Skilled Worker-5 years – main applicant and dependants | £1420 | £1519 |
Skilled Worker -3 years with Immigration Salary list job- main applicant and dependants | £551 | £590 |
Skilled Worker-5 years with Immigration Salary list job - main applicant and dependants | £1084 | £1160 |
Skilled Worker – Health and Care Visa 3 years – main applicant and dependants | £284 | £304 |
Skilled Worker – Health and Care Visa –5 years main applicant and dependants | £551 | £590 |
Adult Student – main applicant and dependants | £490 | £524 |
Graduate Route – main applicant and dependants | £822 | £880 |
Indefinite leave to remain – main applicants and dependants | £2885 | £3029 |
Naturalisation (British Citizenship) | £1,500 | £1,605 |
Adult Passport (Online) | £88.50 | £94.50 |
Child Passport (Online) | £57.50 | £61.50 |
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) | £10 | £16 |
Certificate of Sponsorship (Skilled Worker) | £239 | £525 |
Certificate of Sponsorship (Temp Worker) | £25 | £55 |
Naturalisation (British Citizenship) | £1,500 | £1,605 |
Detailed Fee Adjustment
1. Visit Visas
Travellers planning to visit the UK will face the following fee changes:
Short-term Visit Visa (up to 6 months): From £115 to £127
Long-term Visit Visas:
Up to 2 years: From £432 to £475
Up to 5 years: From £771 to £848
Up to 10 years: From £963 to £1,059
Visiting Academic (6-12 months): From £200 to £220
Private Medical Treatment Visa (6-11 months): From £200 to £220
Transit Visas:
Direct Airside Transit: From £35 to £39
Landside Transit: From £64 to £70
2. Work Visas
Applicants seeking employment opportunities in the UK will encounter the following fee increases:
Innovator Founder Visa: From £1,486 to £1,590
Start-up Visa: From £584 to £625
3. Study Visas
Students applying to study in the UK will see these adjustments:
Student Visa: From £490 to £524.
Child Student Visa: From £490 to £524.
Short-term Student Visa (English language courses, 6-11 months): From £200 to £214.
4. Nationality Applications
For those applying for British citizenship, fee changes include:
Naturalisation (British Citizenship): From £1,500 to £1,605.
Naturalisation for British Overseas Territory Citizens: From £1,000 to £1,070.
Nationality Registration (Adult): From £1,351 to £1,446.
Nationality Registration (Child): Remains at £1,214.
Understanding the Impact
Benefits of the Revised Fee Structure
Enhanced Border Security: The additional revenue will support improved border management and security.
Improved Service Quality: Increased fees will contribute to faster processing times and better applicant support.
Sustainability: Aligning fees with inflation ensures the continued financial viability of the immigration system.
Considerations for Applicants
While fee increases may pose additional financial planning challenges, early preparation can help mitigate the impact. Visa Roots recommends:
Applying Early: Where possible, submit applications before the new fees take effect.
Seeking Expert Advice: Our team can provide tailored guidance to ensure your application meets all requirements, reducing the risk of delays.
Budgeting Ahead: Plan for the revised fees in your financial planning if applying after 9th April 2025.
Conclusion
The revised UK immigration and nationality fees reflect the government’s aim to balance operational costs with service enhancements. Prospective visitors, students, and professionals should stay informed and plan accordingly. Visa Roots is here to support you with up-to-date advice and application assistance.
For further details, visit the official UK Home Office fee table.
If you have questions or need expert support, contact Visa Roots today for personalised guidance on your UK visa or nationality application.
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