As you set your sights on the United Kingdom, unraveling the complexities of the visa application process is paramount, with the UK visa fee being a key focal point. This article aims to demystify the nuances of UK visa costs. Then provide you valuable insights and practical tips to equip you with the knowledge needed for effective financial planning throughout your visa application journey.
The UK visa fee serves as the obligatory charge imposed on individuals applying for a visa to gain entry into the United Kingdom. The total amount is contingent upon factors such as the particular type of visa being sought, the intended duration of stay, and several other relevant considerations.
This fee covers the expenses tied to processing the visa application and thoroughly assessing the submitted documentation. It also includes the costs associated with making the final determination on whether to approve or deny the visa request.
It plays a crucial role in the visa application process. This UK visa fee reflects the expenses incurred to ensure a comprehensive and impartial assessment of each applicant's eligibility to enter this country.
A British visa serves as an official document issued by the UK government, providing legal authorization. It grants individuals worldwide the privilege to enter, stay temporarily, or establish permanent residence in the UK.
Explore the various types of UK immigration visas listed below, and choose the one to apply for based on your conditions and circumstances, including information about the UK visa fee.
The UK Standard Visitor Visa consolidates various types of tourist visas into a single category, simplifying the application process. Tourist visas can be used for tourism, study, business, medical examination, or other purposes with a visa duration of no more than 6 months.
In addition to tourist visas, there are other special types of visas such as:
Permitted paid engagement visa: This visa will allow you to be invited to the UK to work as a specialist in your field. Accordingly, you are not allowed to stay in the UK for more than 1 month.
Marriage visitor visa: This visa is specifically for marriage purposes, allowing a 6-month stay in the UK for marriage registration and partner residence registration. Notably, it does not permit staying in the UK for residence after marriage.
UK Tourist visas are versatile and allow holders to engage in tourism, study, business activities, undergo medical examinations, or pursue other purposes as needed
This visa category includes many different types. This visa category is suitable for each type of person such as business owners, workers in different categories, etc. Specifically as follows:
Tier 1 Visa is for highly qualified workers:
Tier 1 Investor category: This is a visa for business owners who want to make financial investments. The prerequisite is that they must invest over 2 million pounds (GBP) within 2 years.
Tier 1 Entrepreneur stream: This is a visa for those who want to invest by establishing a business as well as franchising. The condition is that investors must actively participate in the operation of more than one business in the UK.
Tier 1 Startup stream: This is a visa for people starting a business for the first time in the UK. This visa is a replacement for the previous Graduate Entrepreneur Visa.
Tier 1 Innovator category: This is a visa for experienced business people as well as capital ready to invest in their business. The condition is that the visa applicant will need an investment of over 50,000 GBP (63,570 USD).
Tier 2 Visa is for qualified workers:
Tier 2 General: This visa category is reserved for individuals invited to work in the UK when the nature of the job makes it challenging to find suitable candidates from the local labor pool. It also accommodates those seeking temporary employment in the UK to generate income for themselves and their families in their home country.
Tier 2 Intra Company Transfer Worker category: This visa is designed for individuals relocating from an international company based in the UK. It facilitates the transfer of highly qualified professionals from overseas to undertake specialized roles at the company's UK branch.
Tier 5 Visa is for young workers and temporary workers:
Tier 5 Government Authorized Exchange category: This is a visa for those working under the exchange program between the two governments. Specifically, this visa is for people who come to the UK to work under an approved program for the purpose of sharing knowledge, experience as well as application.
Tier 5 Youth Mobility Scheme: This is a visa for young people from some countries to participate in this program with the desire to explore life in the UK.
Tier 5 Creative Sporting Visas: This is a visa for young people to come to the UK to work or participate in sports and entertainment activities. Specifically, it will include athletes, singers, actors, art workers, and creative artists,... for a period of 12 months.
Tier 5 International Agreement: This is a visa for those who come to the UK to work under a service provision contract. This is stipulated in International Law.
Tier 5 Religious Worker category: This is a visa for people who do jobs such as preaching as well as helping in religious organizations.
Tier 5 Charity Worker category: This is a visa for people who come to the UK to do charity work and do not receive a salary or benefits.
This visa type is categorized based on age groups, and tailored to specific needs. These include:
Student visa for higher education.
Study abroad visa for prospective students.
General student visa, commonly referred to as Tier 4 General Student Visa.
Student visa for children, known as Tier 4 Child.
For young children, there's a Child Visitor visa specifically for tourism purposes.
Family reunification settlement is a common scenario in UK visa applications. Many individuals, having lived in the UK for an extended period, choose to sponsor their relatives to join them and settle together. This immigration visa for the above purpose will include the following types:
Immigrant under the sponsor's spouse or same-sex marriage.
Settlement under the sponsorship of adoptive parents.
Settlement under the sponsorship of family members.
Settlement for elderly people dependent on relatives currently living in the UK.
The concept of family reunification settlement is frequently encountered in UK visa applications
Types of UK visas for family visits and business will include the following types:
Visa to visit relatives.
Special visit visa.
Long-term visit visa.
Business visa in the UK.
The UK transit visa permits a 48-hour layover while waiting for your connecting flight to another country. It's crucial to note whether you'll pass through the UK border control area, as this determines the specific type of British transit visa required for your needs.
Types of UK transit visas and purposes of use:
Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV): This is a visa for people who do not leave the waiting area to change flights. Your transit time will not exceed 24 hours.
Visitor in Transit Visa: This visa is designed for foreign travelers who need to exit the airport, proceed through customs for luggage checks, and continue their journey to another airport within the UK. Unlike the standard transit visa, this type accommodates longer transit times exceeding 48 hours.
The UK transit visa enables a layover of up to 48 hours which provides the opportunity to wait for a connecting flight to another destination
A temporary refugee visa is a visa for people who are about to enter the UK or are at the border. Refugee visa applicants must leave their country of residence, as their lives are under serious threat.
This visa application will be made from within the UK. Note that the visa will only be temporary until the visa holder is no longer in danger and can return to his or her home country. This visa will be issued for 2 to 6 years with the possibility of an extension depending on the actual situation.
Are you curious about the cost of obtaining a UK visa? Let's explore the UK visa fee and understand the various charges associated with the application process right below.
Delving into the details of a UK Work visa application, it's essential to navigate through the associated UK visa fee to gain a comprehensive understanding of the financial aspects of the application process.
|
Work Visa Applications Submitted Outside the UK |
||
|---|---|---|
|
No. |
Application Category |
Application Fee (USD) |
|
1 |
Innovator Founder – main applicant and dependants |
1514 |
|
2 |
Endorsement fee under Innovator Founder route (payable to endorsing body) excluding VAT |
1271 |
|
3 |
Start-up – main applicant and dependants |
553 |
|
4 |
Approval letter from a competent body in respect of an initial application for Global Talent |
666 |
|
5 |
Global Talent – main applicant – where Approval Letter is required |
244 |
|
6 |
Global Talent – main applicant – where Approval Letter is not required |
910 |
|
7 |
Global Talent – dependants only |
910 |
|
8 |
Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) – dependants only |
910 |
|
9 |
Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) – dependants only |
1514 |
|
10 |
Tier 1 (Investor) – main applicant and dependants |
2395 |
|
11 |
Skilled worker, where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for three years or less – main applicant and dependants |
910 |
|
12 |
Skilled Worker, where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for over three years – main applicant and dependants |
1805 |
|
13 |
Skilled Worker – shortage occupation where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for three years or less – main applicant and dependants |
700 |
|
14 |
Skilled Worker, shortage occupation where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for over three years – main applicant and dependants |
1378 |
|
15 |
Skilled Worker – Health and Care Visa – where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for three years or less – main applicant and dependants |
361 |
|
16 |
Skilled Worker – Health and Care Visa – where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for over three years – main applicant and dependants |
700 |
|
17 |
Skilled Worker – Shortage Occupation – Health and Care Visa – where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for three years or less – main applicant and dependants |
361 |
|
18 |
Skilled Worker – Shortage Occupation – Health and Care Visa – where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for over three years – main applicant and dependants |
700 |
|
19 |
T2 Minister of Religion – main applicant and dependants |
910 |
|
20 |
International Sportsperson where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for 12 months or less – main applicant and dependants |
378 |
|
21 |
International Sportsperson where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for over 12 months – main applicant and dependants |
910 |
|
22 |
Temporary Work – Seasonal Worker, Religious Worker, Charity Worker, Creative Worker, International Agreement, Government Authorised Exchange and Youth Mobility Scheme – main applicant and dependants |
378 |
|
23 |
Representative of an overseas business – main applicant and dependants |
910 |
|
24 |
Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker – up to 3 years – main applicant and dependants |
910 |
|
25 |
Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker – more than 3 years -main applicant and dependants |
1805 |
|
26 |
Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee – main applicant and dependants |
378 |
|
27 |
Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier – main applicant and dependants |
378 |
|
28 |
Global Business Mobility – UK Expansion Worker – main applicant and dependants |
378 |
|
29 |
Global Business Mobility – Secondment Worker – main applicant and dependants |
278 |
|
30 |
Scale-up – main applicant and dependants |
1045 |
|
31 |
High Potential Individual – main applicant and dependants |
1045 |
|
Work Visa Applications Submitted Inside the UK |
||
|---|---|---|
|
No. |
Application Category |
Application Fee (USD) |
|
1 |
Innovator Founder – main applicant and dependants |
1889 |
|
2 |
Endorsement fee under Innovator Founder route (payable to endorsing body) excluding VAT |
1271 |
|
3 |
Start-up – main applicant and dependants |
742 |
|
4 |
Approval letter from a competent body in respect of an initial application for Global Talent |
666 |
|
5 |
Global Talent – main applicant – where Approval Letter is required |
244 |
|
6 |
Global Talent – main applicant – where Approval Letter is not required |
910 |
|
7 |
Global Talent – dependants only |
910 |
|
8 |
Graduate Route – main applicant and dependants |
1045 |
|
9 |
Tier 1 (Exceptional Talent) – dependants only |
910 |
|
10 |
Tier 1 (Entrepreneur) – main applicant and dependants |
1899 |
|
11 |
Tier 1 (Investor) – main applicant and dependants |
2395 |
|
12 |
Skilled Worker, where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for three years or less – main applicant and dependants |
1051 |
|
13 |
Skilled Worker, where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for over three years – main applicant and dependants |
1907 |
|
14 |
Skilled Worker, shortage occupation where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for three years or less – main applicant and dependants |
700 |
|
15 |
Skilled Worker, shortage occupation where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for over three years – main applicant and dependants |
1378 |
|
16 |
Skilled Worker – Health and Care Visa – where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for three years or less – main applicant and dependants |
361 |
|
17 |
Skilled Worker – Health and Care Visa – where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for over three years – main applicant and dependants |
700 |
|
18 |
Skilled Worker – Shortage Occupation – Health and Care Visa – where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for three years or less – main applicant and dependants |
361 |
|
19 |
Skilled Worker – Shortage Occupation – Health and Care Visa – where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for over three years – main applicant and dependants |
700 |
|
20 |
T2 Minister of Religion – main applicant and dependants |
1051 |
|
21 |
International Sportsperson where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for 12 months or less – main applicant and dependants |
378 |
|
22 |
International Sportsperson where a certificate of sponsorship has been issued for over 12 months – main applicant and dependants |
1051 |
|
23 |
Temporary Worker – Seasonal Worker, Religious Worker, Charity Worker, Creative Worker, International Agreement Worker, Government Authorised Exchange Worker – main applicant and dependants |
378 |
|
24 |
Representative of an overseas business – main applicant and dependants |
1051 |
|
25 |
Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker – up to 3 years – main applicant and dependants |
1051 |
|
26 |
Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker – more than 3 years -main applicant and dependants |
1907 |
|
27 |
Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee – main applicant and dependants |
378 |
|
28 |
Global Business Mobility – Service Supplier – main applicant and dependants |
£298 |
|
29 |
Global Business Mobility – UK Expansion Worker – main applicant and dependants |
378 |
|
30 |
Global Business Mobility – Secondment Worker – main applicant and dependants |
378 |
|
31 |
Scale-up – main applicant and dependants |
1045 |
|
32 |
High Potential Individual – main applicant and dependants |
1045 |
Exploring the realm of UK Sponsorship Applications, a crucial aspect to consider is the associated UK visa fee. Let's delve into the specifics of the fees involved in this sponsorship application process.
|
Sponsorship fees |
||
|---|---|---|
|
No. |
Category |
Fee (USD) |
|
1 |
Premium Sponsor Service (12 months) Worker sponsor and Temporary worker sponsor – large sponsors |
31785 |
|
2 |
Premium Sponsor Service (12 months) Worker sponsor and Temporary worker sponsor – small sponsors |
10171 |
|
3 |
Premium Sponsor Service (12 months) Student sponsors |
10171 |
|
4 |
The expedited processing of a sponsorship management request made by a Worker sponsor or Temporary worker sponsor |
254 |
|
5 |
Priority service for expedited processing of sponsor licence applications |
635 |
|
6 |
Worker sponsor licence (large sponsor ) |
1876 |
|
7 |
Worker sponsor licence (small sponsor) |
681 |
|
8 |
Student sponsor licence |
681 |
|
9 |
Temporary Worker sponsor licence |
681 |
|
10 |
Worker and Temporary Worker sponsor licence (large sponsor) |
1876 |
|
11 |
Worker and Student sponsor licence (large sponsor) |
1876 |
|
12 |
Worker, Temporary Worker and Student sponsor licence (large sponsor) |
1876 |
|
13 |
Temporary Worker and Student sponsor licence |
681 |
|
14 |
Worker sponsor licence (large sponsor), where sponsor currently holds a Temporary Worker and/or Student Sponsor Licence |
1195 |
|
15 |
Endorsement fee for a Scale-up sponsor licence under Endorsing Body Pathway (payable to the endorsing body) excluding VAT |
1907 |
|
16 |
Student sponsor basic compliance assessment |
681 |
|
17 |
Sponsor action plan |
1876 |
|
18 |
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Skilled Worker, T2 Minister of Religion, Global Business Mobility – Senior or Specialist Worker |
303 |
|
19 |
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) – Temporary Worker including Global Business Mobility – Graduate Trainee, UK Expansion Worker, Service Supplier and Secondment Worker route, and Scale-up route |
31 |
|
20 |
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for International Sportsperson route – Over 12 Months |
303 |
|
21 |
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS) for International Sportsperson route – Up to 12 months or less |
31 |
|
22 |
Confirmation of Acceptance for Study (CAS) for student, child student |
31 |
As we navigate through the intricacies of visa applications, it's essential to shed light on the additional fees for UK visas and applications. This ensures a comprehensive understanding of the overall UK visa fee structure.
|
Other Visa and Applications Submitted to the UK |
||
|---|---|---|
|
No. |
Application Category |
Application Fee (USD) |
|
1 |
Visit visa – short up to 6 months |
146 |
|
2 |
Visit visa – long up to 2 years |
508 |
|
3 |
Visit visa – long up to 5 years |
980 |
|
4 |
Visit visa – long up to 10 years |
1224 |
|
5 |
Visiting academic – more than 6 months but no more than 12 months |
254 |
|
6 |
Private medical treatment visa – more than 6 months but not more than 11 months |
254 |
|
7 |
Transit visa – (direct airside transit) |
44 |
|
8 |
Transit visit visa (landside transit) |
81 |
|
9 |
Visa for the purpose of joining a ship or aircraft as a member of the crew of that ship or aircraft |
81 |
|
10 |
Electronic Visa Waiver |
38 |
|
11 |
Single-entry visa to replace a Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) |
195 |
|
12 |
Certificate of Entitlement Nationality Right of Abode (outside the UK) |
493 |
|
13 |
Transfer of Conditions (Vignette Transfer) application made overseas |
147 |
|
14 |
Other visa |
809 |
|
15 |
Hong Kong British National (Overseas) for 30 months – main applicant and dependants |
228 |
|
16 |
Hong Kong British National (Overseas) for 5 years – main applicant and dependants |
317 |
|
17 |
Route to Settlement |
2347 |
|
18 |
Route to Settlement – other dependant relative |
4132 |
|
19 |
Route to Settlement – refugee dependant relative |
513 |
|
20 |
Indefinite leave to enter the UK as the dependant of a member of the armed forces under Appendix Armed Forces to the Immigration Rules. |
3668 |
|
21 |
Indefinite leave to enter the UK as a foreign or Commonwealth citizen discharged from HM Forces under paragraph 13 of Appendix Armed Forces to the immigration rules. |
3668 |
|
22 |
Call out/ out of hours fee (per hour/part hour) – service of consular officers |
180 |
|
23 |
Receiving, preparing and forwarding documents – consular functions |
179 |
|
24 |
Administrative review |
101 |
Let's explore the specifics of UK Study Visa Application Fees to providing insights into the overall UK visa fee structure for educational pursuits.
|
Study Visa Applications Submitted to the UK |
||
|---|---|---|
|
No. |
Application Category |
Application Fee (USD) |
|
1 |
Student – main applicant and dependants |
623 |
|
2 |
Child Student |
623 |
|
3 |
Short term student studying English language for more than 6 months but not more than 11 months |
254 |
When it comes to the UK visa fee, it's essential to be aware of the payment and refund regulations governing the application process. Payment for the visa fee is typically required during the application submission, and it's crucial to follow the prescribed payment methods accepted by the UK Visa and Immigration authorities.
Payment methods:
Visa fees for UK visas are typically paid online through the official visa application website.
Accepted payment methods may include credit/debit cards, and sometimes other online payment options.
Refund regulations:
Visa fees are generally non-refundable once the application process has begun.
Refunds may be considered in exceptional circumstances, such as the embassy's or visa office's error or if the visa application is refused.
Refund process:
If you believe you are eligible for a refund, you usually need to submit a refund request along with supporting documentation.
The refund process and requirements can vary, so it's essential to follow the instructions provided on the official website or by the visa application center.
The refund process and requirements can vary
Changes in application fees:
Application fees may be subject to change, and it's crucial to verify the current fee structure before making any payments.
Fee changes may be announced by the UK government, and applicants should be aware of these updates.
Dependents and additional fees:
If you are applying for a family or group visa, additional fees may apply for each dependent.
The fees for dependents are often different from the main applicant, and details should be checked in the visa fee schedule.
Maximizing the value of your UK visa fee involves ensuring that you make the most of the opportunities provided by the visa. Your investment in the visa application should result in a successful and fulfilling experience. Here are some strategies to help you make the most of your UK visa:
Thoroughly plan your trip:
Clearly define the purpose of your visit and plan your itinerary accordingly.
Research and identify the places you want to visit and activities you want to engage in and make the most of your time in the UK.
Choose the right type of visa:
Select the most appropriate visa category based on the purpose of your visit (e.g., tourist, work, study).
Ensure that the chosen visa aligns with your needs and provides the necessary flexibility.
Compliance with visa conditions:
Adhere to all the conditions and restrictions outlined in your visa.
Ensure that you stay within the authorized duration of your visit and comply with any work or study restrictions.
Choose the visa category that best aligns with the purpose of your visit to the UK
Utilize work or study opportunities:
If your visa allows you to work or study, make the most of these opportunities to enhance your skills, gain experience, and expand your professional network.
Explore cultural and educational opportunities:
Take advantage of the cultural and educational experiences the UK has to offer.
Attend events, visit museums, and participate in activities that align with your interests.
Networking and building connections:
Connect with professionals, colleagues, or classmates to build a network.
Attend relevant events and participate in networking opportunities within your field.
Document your experience:
Keep a journal, or blog, or use social media to document your experiences.
Capture memories, share insights, and showcase the positive aspects of your time in the UK.
Contribute to the community:
Consider volunteering or engaging in community service activities.
Contribute positively to the community and gain a sense of fulfillment from your experience.
Stay informed about any updates or modifications to visa policies and regulations
Stay informed about visa policies:
Stay updated on any changes in visa policies or regulations.
Ensure that you comply with any new requirements that may be introduced during your stay.
Maintain financial responsibility:
Manage your finances responsibly to ensure you can make the most of your time without unnecessary financial stress.
In conclusion, while the UK visa fee represents a financial commitment, its value extends beyond a mere transaction. It serves as a gateway to a myriad of possibilities and experiences in the United Kingdom. By thoroughly planning your trip and embracing the opportunities it offers, you can make the most of your investment.
Your UK visa fee is not just a cost but an investment in a chapter of your life filled with exploration, learning, and unforgettable moments. Remember that the journey does not end with the approval of your visa; it begins with the anticipation of cultural immersion, and personal growth.
For the latest E-visa details, reach us at [email protected]. Our support team is here 24/7 to assist you in completing your process seamlessly.
