The United Kingdom officially rolled out fresh immigration reforms on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, introducing stricter rules and higher costs for visa applications and Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs).
The UK Home Office announced a series of changes said to be aimed at refining the immigration system, reducing reliance on taxpayer funding, and enhancing border security.
The Pan-Atlantic Kompass reports that these reforms come alongside a notable increase in visa and ETA fees.
Starting Wednesday, visa fees have risen across the board, affecting various categories such as work, study, family, and visit visas. The increases, averaging between 5% and 13%, are said to be designed to offset operational costs and improve immigration services.
Below are some of the updated fees:
Skilled Worker Visa: Now £1,160 (up from £1,084).
Student Visa: Increased to £524 (previously £490).
Standard Visitor Visa (up to 2 years): Now £475 (up from £432).
Long-Term Visitor Visa (up to 10 years): Raised to £1,059 (from £963).
Spouse Visa (out-of-country): Increased to £1,938 (from £1,846).
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): Now £3,029 per applicant (previously lower).
Applicants must also continue paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which remains a significant additional cost, currently £3,105 for out-of-country spouse visas and £2,587.50 for in-country applications. These hikes could pose financial challenges for families, students, and small businesses relying on overseas talent.
The Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), mandatory for visa-exempt travellers since its phased rollout began in 2023, now costs £16, up 60% from its previous £10 price tag.
This change, effective April 9, 2025, applies to visitors from countries like the United States, Canada, and most European Union nations, who need an ETA for short stays (up to six months) or transit through the UK.
The ETA is applied for via the UK ETA app or GOV.UK website remains valid for two years and allows multiple entries.
Also, the minimum salary requirement for Skilled Worker visas has risen to £25,000, effective April 9, 2025.
