Starting 9 April 2025, many UK visa application fees will increase across various categories, including visit, work, family and settlement visas. It is crucial for applicants to stay informed about these changes to ensure their applications are properly processed. Whether you are applying from overseas or within the UK, understanding the new fees will help you plan and budget accordingly. For a detailed overview of the upcoming fee adjustments, be sure to check the latest updates and resources from the Home Office.
In the coming days, a significant change is set to impact those looking to live and secure their future in the UK, as fees for various visa applications are set to increase. The increase in fees could create further financial strain for applicants, particularly for those with limited incomes and larger families. With growing public concern and mounting criticism, it is an important time to consider how these increasing fees will affect people trying to navigate the immigration system.
Understanding the changes to UK visa application fees in 2025
If you are planning to apply for a UK visa, extend your stay, pursue indefinite leave to remain or apply for British Citizenship, understanding the visa application fee structure is crucial. In this guide, we answer some key questions to help you stay informed about the upcoming changes to UK visa fees.
Why is the UK visa application fee important?
The UK Home Office mandates payment of a visa application fee for all visa applications, whether you are applying from overseas or within the UK. This fee varies, based on such factors as the type of visa, your location, and whether you opt for premium processing services. It is essential to ensure the correct payment is made, in accordance with the prescribed guidelines, to financially plan and avoid delays or rejections.
What changes are expected in the UK visa fees from 9 April 2025?
Starting 9 April 2025, many UK visa application fees will increase. These increases apply to both entry clearance applications (submitted from outside the UK) and leave to remain applications (submitted from within the UK), as well as settlement and citizenship applications. For example:
- Visit visa fees: Short-term visit visa fees will increase by 10.5%, from £115 to £127, and long-term visit visa fees will see a rise of 10%.
- Work visa fees: Skilled Worker visa fees will increase by 7%, with applications for up to three years rising from £719 to £769.
- Family visa fees: Spouse and civil partner visa fees will increase by 5%, from £1,846 to £1,939.
- Study visa fees: Student visa application fees will rise by 7%, from £490 to £524.
Are there any significant increases in fees for specific visa types?
Yes, there are some notable increases:
- Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): The ILR fee will rise by 5%, from £2,885 to £3,029.
- Naturalisation (British Citizenship): This application fee will rise by 7%, from £1,500 to £1,605.
- Sponsor fees: Employers will see a significant increase in fees for Certificates of Sponsorship. The fee for a Skilled Worker Certificate of Sponsorship will rise by 120%, from £239 to £525.
Are there any visa fees that will not change?
Yes, some fees remain unchanged. For example, the Priority and Super Priority Service fees will not increase. Additionally, the Innovator Founder route endorsement fee will stay the same at £1,000 (excl. VAT), and the fee for registering a child as a British citizen will remain at £1,214.
It is important to note that applicants will have to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) on top of the application fee for the majority of UK visas.
How should I prepare for these changes?
As visa application fees are expected to rise in April 2025, it is important to plan ahead. Make sure to check the exact fee applicable to your visa category at the time of your application. This will help you budget accordingly and avoid any surprises.
For more detailed information on the latest visa fees and application processes, visit the official UK government website or contact an immigration expert at Gherson. Staying informed about these changes is essential to ensure a smooth and successful application process. Whether you’re visiting, studying, working, or joining family members in the UK, understanding visa fees will help you make well-informed decisions.
How Gherson can assist
Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to contact us for advice, send us an e-mail, or, alternatively, follow us on X, Facebook, Instagram, or LinkedIn to stay-up-to-date.
The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.
©Gherson 2025