UK Immigration and Visa Costs Set to Soar in October 2023

Immigration Costs Surge, Leaving Many in Disarray: What You Need to Know

In a recent development, the United Kingdom is bracing itself for significant hikes in immigration and nationality fees, scheduled to take effect from 4th October 2023. The Immigration and Nationality (Fees) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2023, recently laid in Parliament, unveil a series of fee increases that are poised to impact a wide spectrum of visa and immigration services.

Understanding the Fee Increases

The new regulations encompass a range of fee adjustments within the Home Office’s purview. One notable change is a 15% rise in the cost of most work and visit visas. Priority visas, study visas, and Certificates of Sponsorship will face even steeper hikes, with fees surging by at least 20%.

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

While these changes are substantial, it’s worth noting that they do not encompass the planned increase to the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is expected to rise by a staggering 66% to reach £1,035 annually. However, the implementation of this change is still pending confirmation and may not materialize until 2024 due to a more protracted legal process.

Why the Fee Hikes?

The rationale behind these fee hikes is a matter of contention. Critics argue that the already high fees deter migrants and businesses alike. Comparatively, the UK’s upfront immigration costs are now among the highest globally, surpassing countries such as Canada, Germany, France, and the USA, according to a report by the Royal Society in 2021.

The UK government has defended these increases, asserting that they are necessary to channel more funds toward public sector pay raises. This practice of charging fees exceeding application processing costs is intended to support the broader immigration and border control system.

Breakdown of Fee Increases

Here’s a closer look at the impending fee changes:

• Work Visas: Visa application fees for work routes will increase by 15%, impacting various categories, including Skilled Worker visas and sponsored work visas.
• Study and Post-Study Visas: Student and Graduate visa application fees will also see a 15% uptick.
• Visit Visas: Fees for most visit visas will rise by 15%, affecting Standard Visitor visas for up to six months, as well as 2, 5, and 10-year visit visas.
• Sponsorship Fees: Certificates of Sponsorship (CoS) and Confirmations of Acceptance of Studies (CAS) will undergo a 19-20% fee increase.
• Nationality and Settlement Fees: Application fees for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) and Naturalisation (British citizenship) will surge by 20%.
• Priority Services: Fees for Priority Visa and Super Priority Visa services will be equalised for in-country and out-of-country applicants.

Advice for Applicants

If you are planning to apply for a UK visa in the near future, it’s essential to be aware of these impending fee increases. To mitigate the financial impact, consider preparing and submitting your application before the fee adjustments take effect on 4th October 2023.

As the fee landscape evolves, staying informed and proactive is crucial for all individuals and businesses involved in UK immigration matters.