If you’re planning on moving to the UK in 2024, getting a handle on the visa fees will be one of your first steps. Well, here’s some news on that front – the UK visa fees increased again in 2024. The UK government has announced updates, so you’ll have to consider these changes when planning your budget.
Dealing with visa applications can already feel like a headache, and finding out that it’s going to cost you even more might not be what you want to hear. However, understanding these costs beforehand can help you plan your budget and make the transition as smooth as possible.
So, let’s dive in and take a closer look at what this means for young families aiming to make the UK their new home, as well as why it’s essential to factor these changes into your move.
Understanding UK Visa Fees
Understanding UK Visa Fees can be a maze, especially when budgeting for a big move. Let’s get straight to it – the Home Office sets the fees for visa applications, and they can change them without much notice. So, it’s smart to keep an eye on their official website.
Your visa fee will depend heavily on the type of visa you’re applying for. Are you coming to the UK to work, study, or join family members? Each category has an individual price tag.
And here’s something not everyone realises right away – the country you apply from can also affect how much you pay. Applying from within the UK for an extension or switch can have a different cost compared to applying from your home country.
Often, other costs are involved, such as the healthcare surcharge, which gives you access to the National Health Service during your stay. This can add a significant amount to your initial calculation. And don’t forget about biometric appointments and potentially needing to pay for priority service if you’re in a rush. All these extra charges can add up, making the total cost quite different from what you might expect just by looking at the base visa fee.
Impact of Visa Fee Increases in 2024
The prices are going up by quite a bit compared to 2023. We’re talking about a significant hike across various visa categories that can impact your budget more than you might expect. For example, if you’re eyeing a standard family visa, prepare to pay a few more quid than last year. These changes didn’t come out of nowhere; they kicked in on January 31, 2024, but were announced a few months before. As for the increases, they’re in addition to the rise that was implemented on October 4, 2023.
Why the increase, you ask? It seems the authorities are pushing up the fees to invest back into the immigration system, aiming to improve services and security measures. While this might sound like a good thing in the long run, it also means your initial outlay just for getting in the door is going to be higher.
And let’s face it, moving countries is pricey enough without extra costs piling on. You’ve got enough on your plate with finding a place to live, sorting out schools if you’ve got school-age kids, and all the other bits and bobs that come with setting up a new life in a different country. This fee hike is an added stress you could do without. Yet, knowing about it now gives you a chance to adjust your budget and plan accordingly.
Comparing The Old And New Fees
So, when looking at the old and new UK visa fees, keep in mind that there’s a whole garden variety of visas out there. But let’s focus on the ones you’re most likely to need as a young family moving to the UK. You’ll find that for some visas, the fees have nudged up a bit – nothing too scary, but worth noting.
| Visa Type | Old Fee (before January 31, 2024) | New Fee(after January 31, 2024) |
| Visit visa – up to 6 months | £100 | £115 |
| Visit visa – up to 2 years | £376 | £400 |
| Visit visa – up to 5 years | £670 | £771 |
| Visit visa – up to 10 years | £837 | £963 |
| Route to Settlement | £1,538 | £1,846 |
| Global Talent with Approval Letter | £167 | £192 |
| Global Talent without Approval Letter | £623 | £716 |
| Global Talent – dependants | £623 | £716 |
| Skilled worker with a certificate of sponsorship for three years | £625 | £719 |
| Skilled worker with a certificate of sponsorship over three years | £1,235 | £1,420 |
| Health and Care Visa with a certificate of sponsorship for three years | £247 | £284 |
| Health and Care Visa with a certificate of sponsorship over three years | £479 | £551 |
| Temporary Work – Seasonal Worker, etc. | £259 | £298 |
| Student Visa | £363 | £490 |
| Child Student Visa | £363 | £490 |
| Short-term student studying English | £200 | £200 |
| Transit visa (direct airside transit) | £35 | £35 |
This information was taken directly from the official government site. If the type of visa you’re looking for isn’t mentioned here, head on over to the official website and have a look at their extensive list of visa fees.
Additional Costs to Consider
One significant extra expense you’ll need to budget for is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). Essentially, the IHS is a fee you pay as part of your visa application, granting you access to the NHS on generally the same basis as a UK resident.
Everyone who’s applying for a visa to stay in the UK for more than 6 months but doesn’t have permanent residency needs to pay this surcharge. For families, this can significantly increase your overall visa cost, as you’ll need to pay the surcharge for each family member.
The exact amount depends on your visa type and the duration of your stay, but it’s something you’ll want to factor into your budget early on.
Optional Premium Services
You might be in a hurry to start your new life in the UK and choose to speed up the visa application process. To do that, you can opt for the following:
- Super Priority Service. It has a new fee of £1000. This service aims to process your visa application by the end of the next working day after your appointment. Yes, it’s expensive, but if time is of the essence, it’s good to know it’s an option.
- Priority Service. This service has a fee of £500 for expedited processing and promises a faster decision than the standard service – usually within 5 working days from your appointment.
- On-demand Service. This service might be particularly appealing to families. This service brings the visa application process to your home or a location of your choice, offering a comfortable and convenient option. The cost for this service remained the same, a hefty £650.
Budgeting for Your Visa Application
You’ve got the visa fees themselves, which can vary widely depending on the type of visa you’re applying for and how many of you are making the move. Then, there’s the IHS, which isn’t an insignificant amount, especially for a family. On top of these, you might want to consider optional services like priority processing, though this will bump up your costs further.
To keep your finances on track, start by listing all these expenses. Then, add a little buffer – unexpected costs always pop up, especially when kids are involved. It’s also wise to start saving as early as possible. Small, regular savings can add up and take some of the sting out of the final bill. It’s all part of investing in your family’s future, so while it might pinch now, it’s heading towards a worthwhile outcome.
Other Financial Requirements
Proving that your finances can cover these costs and support your family once you arrive is a big part of the application. The UK government wants to see that you won’t be dependent on public funds. That means showing steady income, savings, or other financial resources.
For families, this is particularly important because it’s not just about the individual applicant but ensuring the whole family can live comfortably. So, gather those bank statements, pay slips, and any other documents that paint a picture of financial stability.
The Final Cost
Getting your head around updates like visa fee increases is key to avoiding any nasty surprises. Think of it as part of your moving checklist – something you don’t want to overlook. It’s all about making sure your budget is as ready for this adventure as you are.
Remember, these prices can change at any time, and the last thing you need is to be caught off guard. Keep an eye out for the latest info, and if things seem a bit overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out for some professional guidance. Moving your family to a new country is a big step, but with a bit of planning and the right info, you can make this transition as smooth as possible.
