The UK Government has announced new measures aimed at reducing the financial burden of the migration and borders system on taxpayers. These proposed changes, laid before Parliament on 16 January 2025, outline fee adjustments across several immigration and nationality services.
Key Proposed Fee Increases
Home Office announces plans to increase fees for various immigration and nationality services. If approved, the following changes will come into effect:
- Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA): Fee rising to £16.
- Certificate of Sponsorship: Fee increasing to £525.
- Naturalisation as a British Citizen: Fee to be set at £1,605.
- Naturalisation as a British Overseas Territories Citizen: Fee rising to £1,070.
These adjustments are forecast to generate an additional £269 million annually.
Enhanced Border Security and Efficiency
As part of the government’s Plan for Change, the introduction of ETAs marks a shift towards a digital and streamlined immigration system. This system promises to enhance security and expedite border clearance for millions of travellers entering the UK each year.
Airside Transit Exemption
In response to feedback from the aviation industry, the government has granted a temporary exemption for airside transit passengers. This exemption primarily affects Heathrow and Manchester airports, the two UK airports offering airside transit facilities. However, the policy will remain under review, with further updates expected.
Legislative Process
The proposed changes will be debated in Parliament and must secure approval from both Houses. Once approved, the new fees will be implemented through amendments to the Immigration and Nationality (Fees) Regulations 2018. The exact timeline for these changes will depend on Parliamentary schedules.
These measures reflect the government’s commitment to balancing national security, operational efficiency and fiscal sustainability. If implemented, the adjustments will modernise the UK’s immigration processes while reducing the system’s reliance on taxpayer funding.
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