UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) have published new immigration and visa fees applicable from 6th of April 2018.
Following the UK Government’s decision on 16 March 2018, UKVI have increased fees for visa applications including visitor visas, work visas, student visas, and settlement and naturalisation applications.
There is also an increase in priority and premium services provided by the UKVI.
New UK Visas and Immigration Fees
In accordance with the legislation laid out by the Home Office, the following visa and immigration fee changes have been approved for entry clearance and in-country visa applications made after 6 April 2018.
- 4% Increase in Work, Study, Visit, and Family visas
- 4% Increase in Nationality and Settlement applications
- 15% Increase in Priority Visa Services from overseas
- No changes to the Sponsor Licence fees
- Increase in line with the UK fee changes for the Channel Islands and Isle of Man
All the above changes approved with Immigration and Nationality Fees amendment order 2018 will come into effect on 6th April 2018.
New UK Visa Fees 2018
See the latest immigration and nationality fees for major visas and application categories as published by the UKVI.
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For a complete list of all visa categories, please refer to the official document with the table of fees published by the UKVI.
Implications of Increasing UK Visa Fees
Although most applications have seen only a slight increase in the fees by 4%, it adds to the ever-increasing immigration costs for Non-EEA citizens. With Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) also expected to double later this year, there will be a steep increase in overall application costs for several immigration categories including those applying for student and work visas.
For UK businesses looking to sponsor non-EEA employees, the fees increase combined with IHS increase in addition to existing immigration charges (such as Skills Charge of £1,000 per year per worker) will result in higher costs. This can bring in additional financial strain to the UK businesses, thus discouraging them from bringing their workforce to the UK.
There is, however, no increase in the fees for businesses applying for Sponsor Licence, a permit required by businesses in the UK to employ non-EEA nationals.
We can help!
At Edmans & Co, we have immigration lawyers keeping track of all latest UKVI changes including fees and requirements for all UK immigration categories.
If you need any help understanding the latest changes and its implications for your business or need complete assistance with your application, feel free to contact our immigration lawyers here.
