In an effort to strengthen the financial sustainability of the UK migration and border systems, the government has implemented substantial revisions of the Immigration, Nationality, and Passport (Fees) Regulations 2024. These alterations, outlined in SI 2024/398, aim to generate revenue from visa, nationality, Border Force and passport applications, thereby reducing reliance on taxpayer funding.
Commencing on various dates throughout April, July, and September 2024, these regulations encompass a wide array of amendments. Significant adjustments include the anticipated transition from the Shortage Occupations List to the Immigration Salary List, exemptions to fee payments for specific visa applications, and notable increases in various fees across the spectrum.
For instance, the fee for certain applications for limited leave to remain under Appendix Hong Kong British National (Overseas) will be waived under particular circumstances. Conversely, fees for contact point meetings (a meeting between the applicant and an endorsing body to assess progress against the applicant’s business plan) required under Appendix Innovator Founder will see the introduction of a new fee of £500, albeit with some exceptions.
Furthermore, amendments extend to the Passport (Fees) Regulations 2022, where fees for various passport-related services will undergo revisions. Effective from specific dates in April and July 2024, these changes aim to align fees with administrative costs and streamline processes. The full list of the updated fees is available here.
Fees for first passport applications, renewals and replacements will be raised to cover administrative costs effectively. Interim provisions have been put in place to ensure a smooth transition, safeguarding individuals who apply before the fee revisions will have taken effect.
We have already observed significant fee hikes across various visa routes since last year. At a time like this, it becomes even more important to stay informed about these regulatory changes in order to navigate visa, nationality and passport applications effectively.
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.
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