UK visa fee hike:  The United Kingdom  (UK) has implemented a revised visa fee structure across multiple categories, including visit, study and work visas. The updated charges came into effect on April 8, and are expected to directly impact thousands of Indian applicants planning to travel, study or work in the UK.

Increase in visit visa charges

Under the new pricing framework, the cost of a short-term visit visa (valid for up to six months) has been increased from £127 to £135. Long-term visit visas have also seen notable hikes.

Two-year visa: Increased from £475 to £506

Five-year visa: Increased from £848 to £903

Ten-year visa: Increased from £1,059 to £1,128

Higher costs for students and skilled workers

The fee revision also affects categories that attract a large number of Indian applicants. The cost of a student visa has risen from £524 to £558. Meanwhile, the fee for a skilled worker visa (valid for up to three years) has increased from £769 to £819.

India continues to remain one of the largest sources of international students and skilled professionals moving to the UK, making these changes particularly significant.

Financial pressure on applicants

The increase in visa fees is likely to add to the financial burden on applicants, many of whom are already dealing with currency fluctuations and the high cost of living abroad. For students and professionals, the cumulative expenses of relocation, tuition, and accommodation may now rise further.

UK’s justification for fee revision

Explaining the rationale behind the revision, the British High Commission in India stated that the move is part of efforts to build a more “efficient and fully digital immigration system.” Officials added that the global increase in visa fees would help maintain a secure, robust and efficient service.

No cap on applications, processing to continue

Despite the fee hike, authorities reassured applicants that there is no cap on visa applications. They also emphasised that most applications will continue to be processed within the standard three-week timeframe.

“We will continue to issue the majority of visas within our three-week service standard,” the mission stated, aiming to ease concerns among prospective applicants.