UK Immigration Fees Set to Rise from April 2025

Charlie UK Immigration News & Updates 24 March 2025 | | 0

The UK Home Office has confirmed significant increases to visa and sponsorship fees, set to take effect from 9 April 2025. These changes will impact a wide range of applicants, including Skilled Worker visa holders, sponsors, and those applying for settlement and British citizenship.

The fee hikes vary, with some rising by as little as £8.50, while others will see increases of up to £286. The changes are expected to place additional financial pressure on businesses and individuals navigating the UK immigration system.

Visa Fee Increases

Sponsorship Costs

Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) fees for Skilled Workers, Global Business Mobility (Senior or Specialist Workers), Ministers of Religion, and International Sportspersons (over 12 months) will increase from £239 to £525.
Sponsor Licence fees for medium or large sponsors will rise by £103, from £1,476 to £1,579.

Skilled Worker Visa Fees

Up to 3 years (outside the UK):
- Current Fee: £719 → New Fee: £769
Up to 5 years (outside the UK):
- Current Fee: £1,420 → New Fee: £1,519
Up to 3 years (inside the UK):
- Current Fee: £827 → New Fee: £885
Up to 5 years (inside the UK):
- Current Fee: £1,636 → New Fee: £1,751
Roles on the Immigration Salary List (formerly Shortage Occupation List):
- Fees will increase by £39-£76, depending on visa length.

Settlement and Citizenship Fees

Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR):
- Current Fee: £2,885 → New Fee: £3,029
Naturalisation (British Citizenship):
- Current Fee: £1,500 → New Fee: £1,605

Other Notable Increases

The Convention Travel Document fee for children will increase from £53 to £61.50.
Priority and premium processing fees remain largely unchanged, despite expectations of a potential increase.

What This Means for Businesses and Migrants

These fee hikes will add to the financial burden on employers sponsoring overseas workers and individuals applying for UK visas and citizenship. Employers should factor these costs into recruitment and workforce planning, especially as the government continues tightening immigration rules and increasing scrutiny on sponsor compliance.

Submit your application before the new fees take effect to avoid paying the higher costs.

If you need assistance, contact IaM.

For a full breakdown of the new fee structure, visit the official Home Office page: UK Visa and Immigration Fees – April 2025.

Are you planning to apply for a UK visa? Talk to us in the comment section below. Or if you need more advice on the above, contact us for further travel & immigration advice.

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