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The United Kingdom government has recently unveiled plans to raise the fees for student and tourist visas.
In a statement released on Friday, the UK’s Home Office announced adjustments to visa fees. The modifications entail an increase in the cost of a visit visa for stays of less than six months, which will now be £115, representing a £15 rise. Additionally, the fee for applying for a student visa from outside the UK will see an increase of £127, making it £490, thereby aligning it with the amount charged for in-country applications.
The Home Office clarified that these fee increases were a result of legislation passed by Parliament on Friday. It emphasized that the higher fees would enable the government to allocate resources to essential services and direct more funding towards the public sector’s priority areas.
The statement underscores the pivotal role that fee income plays in ensuring the Home Office’s sustainable operation of the immigration and nationality system.
These adjustments are occurring in a timeframe of less than six months following the UK’s prior announcements of increased fees for visa applications and health surcharges.
The Home Office also emphasized its commitment to a meticulous approach in fee determination, aimed at minimizing the financial burden on British taxpayers while maintaining an appealing service for individuals seeking employment in the UK and contributing to overall prosperity.
The statement clarified that the current changes do not encompass the forthcoming planned hike in the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is slated for introduction later in the Autumn season.
The proposed immigration and nationality fee increases, pending parliamentary approval, are scheduled to become effective on October 4th.
