The United Kingdom government has announced a new round of immigration fee increases that will affect visas, travel authorisations, settlement applications, and citizenship processes. The revised charges are scheduled to take effect on April 8, 2026, as part of updates to the country’s immigration cost structure.
Visa Fees to Rise Across Major Categories
Under the updated fee structure, several visa types—including tourist, student, and work visas—will become more expensive. Most visa application charges are expected to increase by around 6–7%, impacting individuals planning to visit, study, or work in the UK.
For example:
- Short-term UK visit visa (up to 6 months): increases from £127 to £135
- Student visa: increases from £524 to £558
- Skilled Worker visa (up to 3 years): increases from £769 to £819
These adjustments apply to applications made outside the UK and reflect a broader effort to revise immigration costs.
Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Fee Also Increasing
Travelers from visa-exempt countries who require the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) will also see a price change.
- ETA fee: rising from £16 to £20 per application.
The ETA is a digital pre-travel authorization required for visitors from certain countries before they can travel to the UK.
Higher Fees for Settlement and Citizenship
Beyond visa applications, fees related to long-term immigration status will also increase.
- Indefinite Leave to Remain (permanent residency): rising from £3,029 to £3,226
- British citizenship naturalisation: increasing from £1,605 to £1,709
Sponsor licence fees for employers who hire foreign workers are also expected to rise, which may influence the cost of international recruitment.
What This Means for Travelers and Students
These fee adjustments highlight a continuing trend of rising immigration costs in the UK. For prospective visitors, students, and skilled workers, planning applications early and understanding the full financial requirements will be increasingly important.
Individuals considering studying, working, or traveling to the UK should stay informed about these updates and prepare for higher visa processing costs when submitting applications.
Need Help with UK Visa Applications?
Visa requirements and fees can change frequently, and getting the process right from the beginning can save time and money. If you need assistance with UK study visas, visitor visas, or other immigration applications, RoutePal can guide you through the process.