UK Visa Fees Increased: Implications for Applicants from India and Pakistan

 The UK has long been a favored spot for individuals from India and Pakistan aiming for educational, professional, and lifestyle enhancement. However, new modifications to UK visa fees effective April 9, 2025, and recent adjustments to the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) implemented earlier this year, will considerably affect prospective applicants. These increases across different visa categories necessitate more careful financial preparation for those aspiring to obtain a UK visa.  

Let’s examine the altered financial situation for applicants from India and Pakistan. For example, standard visitor visas have seen a rise, with the cost of a 6-month visa now at £127 (up from £115). Long-term visitor visas have also witnessed hikes, with the 2-year visa priced at £475, a 5-year visa at £848, and a 10-year visa at £1,059. For students, the fee for a Student visa application has escalated to £524 (from £490), regardless of whether they are applying from overseas or within the UK. The Skilled Worker visa fees have also increased: the cost for applications lasting up to 3 years is now £769 (from £719) for those applying from outside the UK and £885 (up from £827) for those applying from within the country. For visas exceeding 3 years, the price has climbed to £1,519 (from £1,420) for outside applicants and £1,751 (from £1,636) for those applying from within. These adjustments, combined with a significant rise in the Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) administration fee for employers (now £525 instead of £239), demonstrate the UK government's attempts to create a more self-sufficient immigration system and lessen dependency on taxpayers.  

In addition to the primary visa application fees, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) continues to be a considerable upfront expense. While there was no new IHS increase on April 9, 2025, there was a notable rise earlier in February 2024. For the majority of visa applicants, the IHS is set at £1,035 per year, payable in full for the length of the visa upfront. Students and individuals on the Youth Mobility Scheme, along with their dependents, benefit from a slightly reduced rate of £776 annually. For instance, a student applying for a three-year visa would be required to pay £1,572 in IHS (around £776 x 2 years + £776 for the full year if it exceeds 6 months or £388 if shorter than 6 months), in addition to their visa application fee. This surcharge provides access to the National Health Service (NHS), ensuring healthcare requirements are met during their stay in the UK.  

Managing these increased expenses demands strategic planning for applicants from India and Pakistan. Start by gaining a clear understanding of the total costs, encompassing the visa fee, IHS, and any extra charges for priority services or biometric appointments. Consider applying for the longest duration allowed if your plans are extended, as this might prove more economical than several shorter applications. Look into all available scholarships for students, and for skilled workers, discuss the possibility of visa expense support with your prospective employer, as certain companies may cover part of these costs. Additionally, be cognizant of fee waiver options if you're able to demonstrate genuine financial distress, although these are usually confined to specific family visa routes. Always consult the official GOV.UK website for the latest and most accurate fee details to ensure your application is both successful and financially viable.