Increased Visa and Citizenship Fees: What You Need to Know
On October 4, 2023, the Home Office will increase the fees for visa applications and citizenships. The increases range from 15% to 35%, depending on the type of application.
This is the latest in a series of fee increases, and it is likely to have a significant impact on people who want to come to the UK to live, work, and study.
In this blog post, we will explain the new fee increases and what they mean for you. We will also provide some tips on how to save money on your visa application.
What are the new fee increases?
The following table shows the new fees for some of the most popular visa applications:
| Visa Type | Old Fee | New Fee | Increase |
| Tier 2 (Skilled Worker) Visa | £610 | £705 | 15% |
| Student Visa | £348 | £490 | 35% |
| Family Visa | £1,523 | £1,827 | 20% |
| Settlement - Indefinite Leave To Remain | £2,404 | £2,885 | 20% |
| Super Priority Service | £800 | £1,000 | 25% |
| Citizenship Application | £1,206 | £1,400 | 16% |
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is also due to increase later in the autumn, but the exact date and amount of the increase have not yet been confirmed.
What do the fee increases mean for you?
The fee increases will make it more expensive to come to the UK to live, work, and study. This is likely to deter some people from coming to the UK, and it could also make it more difficult for businesses to recruit skilled workers from overseas.
If you are planning to apply for a visa or citizenship, it is important to factor in the new fees when budgeting for your application. You should also be aware that the fees are non-refundable, even if your application is unsuccessful.
How to save money on your visa application?
There are a few things you can do to save money on your visa application:
Apply early. The earlier you apply, the more likely you are to get a discounted fee. Check for eligibility for fee waivers. There are a number of fee waivers available, such as for children and people with disabilities. Use a visa consultant. A visa consultant can help you to complete your application correctly and avoid making mistakes that could lead to your application being rejected.
Conclusion:
The increased visa and citizenship fees are a significant development. It is important to be aware of the new fees and to factor them into your budgeting when planning to come to the UK.
If you need help with your visa application, please contact Premium Visa. We have a team of experienced visa consultants who can help you to complete your application correctly and increase your chances of success.