How Much Does a UK Visa Cost in 2025?
A Guide to UK Visa Costs and Fees in 2025
If you're planning a trip or move to the UK, one of your first questions will likely be, "How much does a UK visa cost?" The answer depends on several factors, including the visa type, duration, location of the application, and optional services like priority processing.
This updated guide provides a breakdown of the costs associated with UK visas to help you better understand and plan your application.
UK Visa Categories and Fees
The cost of a UK visa varies widely depending on the category and duration of the visa. Here’s an overview of the most common visa types and their fees as of 2025:
UK Visitor Visas
Visitor visas are for those traveling to the UK for tourism, business meetings, or short stays.
- 6 months: £115
- 2 years: £400
- 5 years: £771
- 10 years: £963
UK Skilled Worker Visas
The UK Skilled Worker visa is for individuals coming to the UK for employment in eligible roles. Fees are based on the length of the visa and the occupation.
- Up to 3 years: £719
- More than 3 years: £1,420
- Health and Care Worker visa: £247 (discounted rate applies to eligible health workers)
UK Family Visas
Family visas include routes for partners, children, and dependent relatives.
- Partner or Spouse: £1,538 (outside the UK) / £1,048 (inside the UK)
- Adult Dependent Relative: £3,250
- Child Visa: £1,538 (outside the UK) / £1,048 (inside the UK)
Student Visas
For those pursuing education in the UK.
- Main Applicant: £490
- Child Student: £490
Location-Based Fee Variations
The location of your application (inside or outside the UK) can affect the cost of your visa.
- Outside the UK: Applications submitted from outside the UK are typically less expensive than those submitted inside the UK.
- Inside the UK: Applying for a visa extension, switching categories, or making changes to an existing visa from within the UK generally incurs higher fees.
Priority and Super Priority Services
For faster processing, you can opt for Priority or Super Priority services:
- Priority Service: £500 per applicant (decision within 5 working days)
- Super Priority Service: £1,000 per applicant (decision by the next working day)
These services are optional but invaluable for applicants with urgent travel plans or time-sensitive situations.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
For visas longer than six months, applicants should pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This fee allows access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay.
- £1,035 per year for adults
- £776 per year for students, Youth Mobility Visa applicants, and under 18s
The IHS is paid upfront for the total duration of your visa. For example, a three-year visa would require an IHS payment of £3,105 (adults) or £2,328 (discounted rates).
Additional Costs to Consider
Biometric Enrolment Fee
- For most visa applications, a biometric enrolment fee of £19.20 is required to provide fingerprints and a photograph at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) centre.
- However, some applicants can avoid this fee by using the UK Immigration: ID Check App, which allows eligible applicants to verify their identity and upload a photo digitally. This option is available for certain visa types and individuals with biometric passports, eliminating the need for an in-person appointment.
Tuberculosis Test Fee
If you're applying from a country where TB testing is required, this test will cost approximately £65 to £110, depending on your location.
Professional Assistance
Many applicants choose to work with regulated UK immigration consultants to help navigate the complexities of the application process. Professional fees vary but can start from £2,000 for full-service support.
How to Check Official UK Visa Fees
Visa fees are subject to change, so it's always best to check the official UK Government Immigration and Nationality Fees guide for the latest updates. This document provides detailed information about the cost of various visa types, additional services, and exemptions.
Check the UK Government Fee Guide Here
Summary of Costs
| Visa Type | Fee (Outside UK) | Fee (Inside UK) |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor Visa (6 months) | £115 | N/A |
| Visitor Visa (2 years) | £432 | N/A |
| Visitor Visa (5 years) | £771 | N/A |
| Visitor Visa (10 years) | £963 | N/A |
| Skilled Worker Visa (up to 3 years) | £719 | £827 |
| Skilled Worker Visa (more than 3 years) | £1,420 | £1,636 |
| Health and Care Worker Visa (up to 3 years) | £284 | £284 |
| Health and Care Worker Visa (more than 3 years) | £551 | £551 |
| Partner or Spouse Visa | £1,538 | £1,048 |
| Student Visa | £490 | £490 |
| Child Student Visa | £490 | £490 |
| Short-term Study Visa (6-11 months) | £200 | N/A |
| Priority Visa Service (Non-Settlement) | £500 | £500 |
| Super Priority Visa Service | £1,000 | £1,000 |
Conclusion
The cost of a UK visa depends on a variety of factors, including the visa type, application location, additional services, and associated fees like the Immigration Health Surcharge. Preparing a detailed budget and staying informed about the latest requirements is essential.
To ensure your application is successful, consider seeking professional assistance. A well-prepared application saves time and increases your chances of approval, saving money in the long run.
Expert Support for Your UK Visa Application
Ensure your UK visa application is accurate, complete, and compelling. Our experienced team offers tailored guidance, helping you navigate additional costs, biometric requirements, and priority services with ease. Don’t risk delays or refusals—let us help you get it right the first time. Contact us today!
Ensure your UK visa application is accurate, complete, and compelling. Our experienced team offers tailored guidance, helping you navigate additional costs, biometric requirements, and priority services with ease. Don’t risk delays or refusals—let us help you get it right the first time. Contact us today!