All News
Left arrow

UK Visa Fees Increase from April 9

What Travelers Need to Know

The UK government is set to raise visa fees for visitors, workers, students, and electronic travel authorisations (ETA) from April 9. These changes will affect short-term travelers, long-term applicants, and employers sponsoring foreign workers. Understanding these adjustments will help applicants plan ahead and budget accordingly.

Key Changes for Short-Term Visas

Visitors planning short stays in the UK will see higher costs for various visa types. These increases apply to both first-time applicants and those renewing their visas.

  • Visit visa (up to 6 months): Increases from £115 to £127.
  • Visit visa (up to 2 years): Rises from £432 to £475.
  • Visit visa (up to 5 years): Goes up from £771 to £848.
  • Visit visa (up to 10 years): Increases from £963 to £1,059.
  • Transit visa (direct airside transit): Rises from £35 to £39.
  • Transit visa (landside transit): Increases from £64 to £70.

These adjustments highlight the UK’s commitment to maintaining a high-standard visa process while generating additional revenue.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) Fees Rise

For travelers from eligible countries using the ETA system, costs will jump by 60%, from £10 to £16. This increase affects those visiting the UK without a visa under the new electronic system.

Impact on Employers and Sponsorship Costs

Employers sponsoring foreign workers will face significant cost hikes. The most notable change is the 120% increase in the cost of issuing a Certificate of Sponsorship:

  • Skilled Worker and other long-term visa categories: Rises from £239 to £525.
  • Graduate Trainee and short-term worker routes: Increases from £25 to £55.
  • Sponsor license application fees: Rise to £574 for small sponsors and £1,579 for large sponsors.

Companies must account for these changes when hiring international employees.

These fee increases reinforce the UK’s strategy to balance border security, immigration control, and operational costs. Travelers should apply early and confirm the latest rates before submitting their applications. Employers hiring foreign workers must prepare for higher sponsorship costs.

For the latest updates and visa guidance, check the official UK government website before applying.