UK Government has confirmed a new round of increases to immigration and nationality fees, due to take effect on 8 April 2026. The revised fee structure will apply across a wide range of routes, including work, study and visitor visas, as well as settlement applications and employer sponsorship costs.
According to the Home Office, most fees will rise by approximately six to seven per cent, reflecting inflationary pressures. While the adjustments may appear modest in isolation, they contribute to a broader trend of rising costs associated with UK immigration.
Changes across visa categories
Several of the most commonly used visa routes will be affected. For applicants applying from outside the UK, the Skilled Worker visa fee for a stay of up to three years will increase from £769 to £819. Applications exceeding three years will rise from £1,519 to £1,618.
Student visa applicants will also see higher costs, with fees increasing from £524 to £558. Similarly, the standard six-month visitor visa will rise from £127 to £135.
Settlement applications are also affected. The fee for Indefinite Leave to Remain will increase from £3,029 to £3,226, further raising the financial threshold for those seeking permanent residence.
Impact on employers and sponsors
Businesses sponsoring overseas workers will also face higher charges. The cost of a Worker Sponsor Licence will increase from £1,579 to £1,682 for large organisations, while small sponsors and charities will see fees rise from £574 to £611.
In addition, the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), which applies to certain non-visa nationals, will increase from £16 to £20.
Wider implications
UK Home Office has described these adjustments as proportionate and in line with inflation. However, for both individuals and employers, the cumulative effect of repeated fee increases is becoming increasingly significant.
For employers, particularly those reliant on international recruitment, the rising cost of sponsorship may influence workforce planning and hiring strategies. For applicants, the financial barriers to entering and remaining in the UK continue to grow, particularly when combined with associated costs such as the Immigration Health Surcharge.
As the UK seeks to balance economic needs with migration control, these fee increases highlight the importance of careful planning for both businesses and individuals who are trying to understand the immigration system.
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