Applying for a Skilled Worker visa in the UK comes with several mandatory costs that both employers and applicants must consider carefully. These fees differ depending on the length of the visa, the size of the sponsoring organisation and whether family members are included in the application. Below, we outline the key expenses involved, using the most recent fee updates effective from April 2025.
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
The Certificate of Sponsorship is an essential document issued by the sponsor. As of April 2025, the fee to assign a CoS has increased to £525. This cost must be covered by the sponsoring employer and cannot be transferred to the applicant under any circumstances.
Immigration Skills Charge (ISC)
The ISC is payable by sponsors to support the development of skills within the UK workforce. The amount varies based on the size of the organisation:
- Small or charitable sponsors: £364 per sponsored year
- Medium or large sponsors: £1,000 per sponsored year.
Importantly, as outlined in the May 2025 Immigration White Paper, this charge is set to increase by 32%, marking the first rise since 2017 and aligning the rates with inflation.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
The IHS grants visa holders access to NHS services. It currently stands at £1,035 per year for each adult, including both the main applicant and any dependants. Children aged 18 or under are typically charged £776 per year.
Skilled Worker Visa Application Fee
The Home Office charges the following fees for processing visa applications:
- £885 per person for visas up to 3 years
- £1,751 per person for visas over 3 years
This fee is applicable to each individual in the application, including dependants.
Skilled Worker Visa Application Fee (Applications Made Outside the UK)
The Home Office charges the following fees for Skilled Worker visa applications submitted from outside the UK:
Standard Skilled Worker Visa:
- £769 per person – where a Certificate of Sponsorship has been issued for 3 years or less (main applicant and dependants)
- £1,519 per person – where a Certificate of Sponsorship has been issued for more than 3 years (main applicant and dependants)
Skilled Worker – Job on the Immigration Salary List:
- £590 per person – for 3 years or less (main applicant and dependants)
- £1,160 per person – for more than 3 years (main applicant and dependants)
Skilled Worker – Health and Care Visa:
- £304 per person – for 3 years or less (main applicant and dependants)
- £590 per person – for more than 3 years (main applicant and dependants)
These fees apply to each individual in the application, including all dependants. Always check the latest Home Office updates before applying, as fees are subject to change.
Final Thoughts on Skilled Worker Visa costs
The financial commitment involved in sponsoring or applying for a UK Skilled Worker visa is substantial and often underestimated. With recent fee increases and further rises anticipated, careful planning is more important than ever. Whether you’re an employer looking to bring in overseas talent or an applicant preparing to relocate, understanding these costs in full is essential. By staying informed and budgeting accordingly, you can avoid surprises and ensure a smoother visa process from start to finish.
If you need further guidance on the Skilled Worker visa process or support in calculating the full cost for your business or family, our team at Morgan Smith Immigration is here to help. With in-depth expertise and up-to-date knowledge of UK immigration rules, we’re well-placed to assist both employers and applicants. Feel free to contact us today to speak with one of our experienced immigration lawyers.
With over 20 years of experience and a commitment to excellence, Morgan Smith Immigration is your trusted partner for all your immigration needs. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with UK Visa Applications. For any enquiries or assistance, call us at 0203 959 3335 or email [email protected].
