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 fee schedule in force from 8 April 2026. All figures below were checked against GOV.UK in August 2026.
Skilled Worker visa costs at a glance (2026)
| Cost | Who pays | Amount (2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Visa fee — outside the UK, up to 3 years | Applicant | £819 per person |
| Visa fee — outside the UK, over 3 years | Applicant | £1,618 per person |
| Visa fee — inside the UK, up to 3 years | Applicant | £943 per person |
| Visa fee — inside the UK, over 3 years | Applicant | £1,865 per person |
| Immigration Salary List job, up to 3 years | Applicant | £628 per person |
| Immigration Salary List job, over 3 years | Applicant | £1,235 per person |
| Certificate of Sponsorship | Sponsor only | £525 |
| Immigration Skills Charge — small or charitable sponsor | Sponsor only | £480 per year |
| Immigration Skills Charge — medium or large sponsor | Sponsor only | £1,320 per year |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | Applicant | £1,035 per year |
| Money you must show (maintenance) | Applicant | £1,270 |
Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS)
The Certificate of Sponsorship is an essential document issued by the sponsor. As of 2026, the fee to assign a CoS is £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: £480 for the first 12 months, then £240 for each additional 6 months
- Medium or large sponsors: £1,320 for the first 12 months, then £660 for each additional 6 months.
The 32% rise trailed in the May 2025 Immigration White Paper has now taken effect — the first increase since 2017. Budget for the higher rates on every new Certificate of Sponsorship you assign.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
The IHS grants visa holders access to NHS services. It stands at £1,035 per year for each adult, including both the main applicant and any dependants. Applicants who are under 18 at the date of application pay the discounted rate of £776 per year. You can work out the exact total, including dependants, with our Immigration Health Surcharge calculator.
Skilled Worker Visa Application Fee
The Home Office charges the following fees for processing visa applications:
- £943 per person for visas up to 3 years
- £1,865 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:
- £819 per person – where a Certificate of Sponsorship has been issued for 3 years or less (main applicant and dependants)
- £1,618 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:
- £628 per person – for 3 years or less (main applicant and dependants)
- £1,235 per person – for more than 3 years (main applicant and dependants)
Skilled Worker – Health and Care Visa:
- £324 per person – for 3 years or less (main applicant and dependants)
- £628 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 are 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].
