The UK Visa Fee Increase April 2026 has been officially confirmed by the Home Office, bringing higher costs across most immigration routes.
The new fees will come into effect from April 8, 2026, impacting visa applicants, employers, and students.
Most visa categories under the UK Visa Fee Increase will see a rise of 6% to 7%, adding to the overall cost of migrating to the UK.
UK Visa Fee Increase April 2026: Key Changes at a Glance
Here’s a quick overview of what’s changing:
| Category | Increase |
|---|---|
| Work visas | 6–7% increase |
| Student visas | Increased |
| Visitor visas | Increased |
| Sponsor licences | Increased |
| ETA fee | £16 → £20 |
The UK Visa Fee Increase April 2026 affects both entry clearance and in-country applications.
UK Visa Fee Increase April 2026: Work Visa Fees Updated
Entry Clearance (Outside UK)
| Visa Type | Old Fee | New Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker (≤3 years) | £769 | £819 |
| Skilled Worker (>3 years) | £1,519 | £1,618 |
| Global Mobility (≤3 years) | £769 | £819 |
| Global Mobility (>3 years) | £1,519 | £1,618 |
In-Country Applications
| Visa Type | Old Fee | New Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker (≤3 years) | £885 | £943 |
| Skilled Worker (>3 years) | £1,751 | £1,865 |
| Global Mobility (≤3 years) | £885 | £943 |
| Global Mobility (>3 years) | £1,751 | £1,865 |
The UK Visa Fee Increase April 2026 significantly impacts skilled workers and corporate transfers.
UK Visa Fee Increase April 2026: Student & Visitor Visa Fees
| Visa Type | Old Fee | New Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Student Visa | £524 | £558 |
| Visitor Visa (6 months) | £127 | £135 |
Even short-term visitors will feel the impact of the UK Visa Fee Increase April 2026.
UK Visa Fee Increase April 2026: Settlement (ILR) Fees
| Application | Old Fee | New Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) | £3,029 | £3,226 |
Settlement in the UK is becoming more expensive under the UK Visa Fee Increase April 2026.
UK Visa Fee Increase April 2026: Sponsor Licence Fees
| Sponsor Type | Old Fee | New Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Large Sponsor | £1,579 | £1,682 |
| Small Sponsor | £574 | £611 |
Employers hiring foreign workers will face higher costs.
UK Visa Fee Increase April 2026: ETA Fee Change
| Service | Old Fee | New Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) | £16 | £20 |
This affects short-term travelers entering the UK under ETA schemes.
UK Visa Fee Increase April 2026: Why Fees Are Increasing
The UK government says the increases are linked to inflation adjustments.
However, this is part of a larger trend:
- Immigration Skills Charge increased in 2025
- Immigration Health Surcharge already raised
- Shift toward a user-funded immigration system
The UK Visa Fee Increase April continues this pattern.
UK Visa Fee Increase April 2026: Impact on Applicants & Employers
For Applicants:
- Higher upfront costs
- Increased financial burden for families
- More expensive pathway to settlement
For Employers:
- Increased hiring costs
- Budget adjustments required
- Higher sponsorship expenses
Experts advise applying before April 8, 2026 to avoid higher fees.
UK Visa Fee Increase April 2026: What’s Coming Next
Future immigration reforms may further increase costs.
Possible changes:
- Longer pathways to settlement
- Extended temporary visa periods
- Higher cumulative immigration expenses
The UK Visa Fee Increase April may just be the beginning of more changes.
Key Takeaways
- New visa fees effective April 8, 2026
- Most categories increased by 6–7%
- ILR now costs £3,226
- ETA fee increased to £20
- UK becoming a higher-cost immigration destination
Conclusion
The UK Visa Fee Increase April 2026 adds to the rising cost of immigration in the UK.
While the increases are moderate individually, they contribute to a broader trend of making immigration more expensive.
Applicants and employers should plan carefully and consider submitting applications before the new fees take effect.
FAQs
When will the new UK visa fees apply?
From April 8, 2026.
How much are fees increasing?
Most fees are increasing by 6% to 7%.
What is the new ILR fee?
£3,226.
What is the new ETA fee?
£20.
Should I apply before April 2026?
Yes, to avoid higher fees.
Any Queries : Contact Us
