UK Visa Fee: What You Need to Know

One of the key steps in obtaining a visa for travel to the UK is paying the visa fee. This is a mandatory requirement for all applicants, and the process is regulated by UK law. In this guide, we will provide a detailed breakdown of UK visa fees, including costs and available payment methods. Ready? Let’s get started.

What is the UK Visa Fee?

The visa fee is a mandatory, non-refundable payment required for processing your visa application. It must be paid before submitting your documents. The amount depends on the type and duration of the visa you are applying for.

Main Visa Categories and Their Fees

The cost of a UK visa varies depending on the category:

• Tourist Visas (Standard Visitor Visa) – This visa is suitable for short-term trips, including tourism, visiting family or friends. A visa for up to 6 months costs approximately £100. Longer-term visas (2, 5, or 10 years) are more expensive, with a 10-year visa costing around £1,000.
• Work Visas – If you plan to work in the UK, you will need a work visa. The fee depends on the specific type (e.g., Skilled Worker, Global Talent) and its duration. The cost typically ranges from £600 to £1,400.
• Student Visas – Students enrolling in UK educational institutions must apply for a student visa. The standard visa fee is around £363 for the main study period.
• Family Visas – If you wish to join family members residing in the UK, you will need a family visa. The cost starts at £1,538.
• Transit Visas – If you are transiting through the UK, a lower visa fee applies. The cost ranges from £35 to £64, depending on the duration of your stay.

How to Pay the UK Visa Fee?

The visa fee is paid during the application process on the official UK government website. The procedure includes the following steps:

1. Filling Out the Application – Choose the visa type and complete the application form in English.
2. Fee Calculation – The system automatically calculates the required visa fee based on your selection.
3. Online Payment – Payments are made via bank card using a secure payment service. Be sure to save the receipt as proof of payment.
4. Additional Fees

In addition to the standard visa fee, you may need to pay for extra services:

• Priority Processing – If you require faster application processing, you can opt for "Priority" or "Super Priority" services. These cost between £250 and £800.
• Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) – For long-term visas, an additional health surcharge applies. For example, the IHS for a student visa is approximately £470 per year.

The UK visa fee is a crucial part of the application process. Understanding the rules and costs in advance will help you budget accordingly and avoid unexpected expenses.If you have any questions, feel free to contact our visa agency. Our specialists will provide all the necessary information and assist you at every step of the process.