Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has unveiled a significant increase in UK visa application fees, along with a substantial rise in the immigration health surcharge. These changes aim to generate funds for public spending, particularly to support recent public sector wage increases.
Why Are Fees Rising?
In a recent speech, Sunak linked the fee hike to funding wage increases for public sector workers. Teachers will receive a 6.5% pay rise, junior doctors will get a 6% increase, and police officers a 7% boost. Sunak clarified that these pay rises are the final offer, with no further negotiations expected.
“These fees will raise over a billion pounds,” Sunak stated, noting that the immigration health surcharge would also increase.
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Current UK Visa Fees
Visa fees vary depending on the visa type, duration, purpose, and industry. The immigration health surcharge has seen steady increases since its introduction in 2015:
- Originally £200 per application
- Raised to £400 in 2018
- Increased to £624 in 2020 (per adult) and £470 for children/students
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New Fee Structure
The government announced that:
- Work Visa Fees: Will increase by 15%
- Other Visa Fees: Will rise by a minimum of 20%
- Immigration Health Surcharge: Now costs £1,035 per person annually, with a discounted rate of £776 for children and students.
Stay updated on these changes to ensure your visa application is accurate and compliant!
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