UK hikes single-entry visa fees from Rs 36k to Rs 50k, leaving Indian students and tourists in a lurch

Starting this Wednesday (October 4), the British government is increasing visa fees for individuals seeking to enter the UK. This change affects students from India and travelers from around the world.

In July, the UK government had already announced plans to raise visa fees, stating that most work and visit visas would become 15% more expensive.

Additionally, they are increasing the costs of priority visas, study visas, and certificates of sponsorship by at least 20%.

What's changing

• As of today, the visa fee for visitors staying less than six months will rise by £15, from £100 to £115. (INR 1,507 to INR 11,556).
• For international students wishing to study in the UK, the visa fee will increase by £127, bringing the total to £490 (INR 49,179).
• Previously, the student fee was £363 (INR 36,433), making it significantly more expensive now.
• Moreover, if you require expedited processing or are applying for a study visa or certificate to enter the UK, the fees for these services will be at least 20% higher than before.

So, if you plan to visit or study in the UK, be prepared to pay higher visa fees starting today.

Visas for skilled workers

• Skilled workers holding sponsorship certificates for three years or less will be charged £719 (INR 65,000).
  For those with sponsorship certificates exceeding three years, the fee increases to £1,420 (approximately INR 129,000).
• Skilled workers in fields with worker shortages, holding sponsorship certificates for three years or less, will pay £551 (INR 50,351).
• However, if your sponsorship certificate is valid for more than three years, the immigration fee will be £1,084 (INR 99,125).

Remember, these fees apply to anyone seeking a visa, permission to stay, or citizenship in the UK. Therefore, it's essential to understand your applicable fees based on your specific situation.

Various visa types and durations impacted by fee increases

• The costs for various visas are increasing, including short visits (up to 6 months) and longer ones (2, 5, and 10-year visit visas).
• Fees for permits to work or study in the UK will also be affected.
• This price hike extends to other visa categories, such as those for individuals working in health and care.
• It even applies to fees for certificates of sponsorship and approval for study.
• These changes also affect individuals seeking British citizenship through registration or naturalization.
• In summary, many types of visas will now require higher fees.

In the 2021-2022 academic year, there were over 120,000 Indian students studying in the UK, making them one of the largest groups of international students in the country.

In recent years, the number of Indian students choosing to study and live in the UK has been steadily increasing.