The United Kingdom (UK) will increase several visa and travel authorization fees starting April 8, 2026. The new rates will affect tourists, students, workers, and applicants seeking long-term settlement in the country. Travelers submitting applications before the deadline will still pay the current fees.
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) Fees
The UK’s Electronic Travel Authorization system, required for visa-free travelers from Europe, the United States, Canada, and Australia, will see its fee rise. The ETA fee will increase from the current £16 to £20. Introduced in 2023 at £10, the ETA remains valid for two years and allows multiple entries during that period.
Visitor Visa Fee Hikes
Short-term visitor visas will also become more expensive across all categories. The fee changes include:
- 6-month visa: £127 → £135
- 2-year visa: £475 → £506
- 5-year visa: £848 → £903
- 10-year visa: £1,059 → £1,128
These visas cover tourism, business travel, and family visits.
Work and Student Visas
Applicants for work or student visas will face higher charges. Skilled Worker visas for up to three years will rise from £769 to £819, while longer visas over three years will increase from £1,519 to £1,618. Student visas will go from £524 to £558. These fees apply for applications submitted both inside and outside the UK.
Settlement and Citizenship Fees
Applicants seeking long-term settlement will also see increases. Indefinite Leave to Remain fees will rise from £1,938 to £2,064. Citizenship applications will also become more expensive: naturalization fees will go from £1,605 to £1,709, and adult registration will remain at £1,540. Child registration, however, will decrease from £1,214 to £1,000.
Traveler Guidance
The new fees take effect on April 8, 2026. Travelers planning trips, work, study, or settlement in the UK are advised to apply before the deadline to avoid higher charges. Early planning can help reduce overall immigration and travel costs.
In other related news also read UK Bars Dual Nationals without British Passport
The UK government emphasizes that timely applications and awareness of updated fees are critical for smooth immigration and travel processing.
