The UK government has announced an increase in visa and electronic travel authorization (ETA) fees, set to take effect in April 2025. The changes will impact various visa categories, including visitor visas, student visas, and work visas, with an average price hike of seven percent. The rise follows a previous increase in UK student visa fees in October 2023.
From April 9, 2025, the UK visitor visa fee is set to increase by ten percent, going up from $149 to $164. Meanwhile, travelers from visa-exempt countries will see a sharp 60 percent rise in the ETA cost, which will increase from $12 to $20. Unlike other fee changes, the new ETA fee will take effect earlier, on April 2, 2025.
An ETA for the UK is a pre-arrival authorization required for visa-exempt nationals. While it is not a visa, it functions similarly by allowing UK authorities to conduct security checks before a traveler’s arrival. Those planning a trip to the United Kingdom in the next two years can apply before April 2 to secure the current lower fee.
International students, including those from India, will experience a fee increase for UK study visas. The fee for student visas will rise from £490 ($633) to £524 ($677) for both main applicants and dependents. A similar price hike will apply to child student visas.
For those enrolling in short-term English language courses, the cost will go up from $258 to $276. Emma English, Executive Director of the British Educational Travel Association (BETA), has expressed concerns that the rise in ETA fees could further discourage international students, particularly school groups that already face stricter post-Brexit requirements.
The UK work visa fees will also see notable increases. The biggest hike affects Health and Care Worker visas, which will rise by 28.2 percent, from $367 to $470. The Skilled Worker – Shortage Occupation visa will also increase by 26.3 percent, reaching £470.
Other notable increases have also been made to temporary work visas, innovator founder visas, start-up visas, minister of religion visas, and settlement (indefinite leave to remain) fees.
There are also plans to increase the cost of long-term UK visitor visas, such as the 2-year, 5-year, and 10-year visitor visas.
Initially, all travelers transiting through the UK without clearing immigration were required to obtain an ETA. However, after pressure from the aviation industry, the UK Home Office announced a temporary exemption for airside transit passengers in January 2025. This change means that all travelers transiting through airports like London Heathrow or Manchester Airport without entering the UK no longer need to apply for an ETA. The government has stated that this exemption is currently under review.
With the UK visa fee increases set to take effect soon, travelers, students, and workers should prepare accordingly. Applying for an ETA before April 2, 2025, can help save money if you plan to visit the UK within the next two years. Likewise, students and workers planning a move to the UK should budget for the new visa costs.
The changes highlight the UK government’s broader approach to post-Brexit immigration policies, affecting tourists, students, and skilled professionals alike. While the increased fees may pose challenges, understanding these updates can help travelers and migrants plan ahead.
