UK Increases Visa Fees

The United Kingdom government has approved another increase in immigration and nationality fees, with the new charges set to begin on April 8, 2026.

The decision, announced by the Home Office, will affect people applying for visas as well as businesses that employ foreign workers.

The new rates, which were made public on March 23, 2026, will see most visa, settlement and sponsorship fees rise by about six to seven per cent.

The increase will apply to different categories, including work, study and visitor visas, as well as licences required by employers to sponsor workers from outside the country.

According to the government, the adjustment is linked to inflation and is part of efforts to keep the immigration system running.

However, concerns have been raised that the rising costs are adding more pressure on migrants and companies that depend on foreign labour.

Under the new structure, the fee for a Skilled Worker visa for up to three years will increase from £769 to £819.

Those applying for longer periods will now pay £1,618 instead of £1,519.

Students are also affected, as their visa fee will rise from £524 to £558, while a standard six-month visitor visa will move from £127 to £135.

For individuals already living in the UK, renewing a Skilled Worker visa will cost more.

The fee for shorter extensions will go up from £885 to £943, while longer extensions will increase from £1,751 to £1,865.

The cost of securing permanent residency, known as Indefinite Leave to Remain, will also rise from £3,029 to £3,226.

Employers are not left out of the changes. Large companies applying for a sponsor licence will now pay £1,682, up from £1,579, while smaller businesses will see their fees rise from £574 to £611.

The Electronic Travel Authorisation fee will also increase from £16 to £20.

This latest adjustment follows earlier increases in charges such as the Immigration Skills Charge and the Immigration Health Surcharge.

Over time, more of the financial responsibility for immigration has been placed on applicants and organisations.