UK to Increase Visa Fees in 2025, Affecting Travelers, Students, and Workers

UK to Raise Visa Fees in 2025—Here’s What You Need to Know

The United Kingdom has announced a major visa fee increase set to take effect in April 2025, impacting travelers, students, and workers. The changes will also apply to those from visa-exempt countries requiring an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

The UK government published the new visa fee structure on its official website, with increases affecting various categories, including visitor visas, student visas, and work permits.

Breakdown of the New UK Visa Fees

1. Visitor Visas

Travelers planning to visit the UK will pay higher fees across all visitor visa categories:

• Standard Visitor Visa (6 months): £127 (previously £115) – 10% increase
• Two-year Visitor Visa: £475 (previously £432)
• Five-year Visitor Visa: £848 (previously £771)
• Ten-year Visitor Visa: £1,059 (previously £963)

2. Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Fees

Visitors from visa-exempt countries who require ETA approval before traveling will also see a fee hike:

• Current ETA fee: $12
• New ETA fee (from April 2, 2025): $20 (60% increase)

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3. Student Visas

International students will also face higher visa fees, adding to their financial burden:

• Standard Student Visa (including dependants): £524 (previously £490)
• Child Student Visa: £524
• Short-term English Language Course Visa (6–11 months): £214 (previously £200)

4. Work Visas

Workers applying for UK visas will experience significant fee increases across multiple categories:

• Health and Care Worker Visa: £470 (previously £367) – 28.2% increase
• Skilled Worker Visa (shortage occupations): £470 – 26.3% increase
• Innovator Founder Visa: £1,274 (previously £1,191)
• Start-up Visa: £465 (previously £435)**

Why is the UK Increasing Visa Fees?

The UK government has not provided a detailed explanation, but experts suggest the fee hikes are part of a strategy to increase revenue and manage immigration more effectively.

British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Richard Montgomery, previously noted that Nigeria has been a major beneficiary of UK visa policies, with the UK granting 300,000 new visas to Nigerians in recent years.

What This Means for Travelers and Students

These changes mean:

• Higher costs for Nigerian students planning to study in the UK
• Increased expenses for travelers and business visitors
• A more expensive work visa process for skilled workers

If you plan to apply for a UK visa in 2025, be prepared for these new rates.

What do you think about the UK’s visa fee hike? Share your thoughts below!