If you’re considering relocating to the United Kingdom in 2025, it’s essential to stay informed about the updated visa fees that apply to your specific visa category.
From tourist and family visas to study and employment permits, applicants are expected to pay a set fee depending on their visa type. Starting April 9, 2025, the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has implemented revised visa application fees, each with its own set of criteria and duration.
Additionally, beginning April 10, 2025, the UK Home Office will increase passport application fees for British citizens.
This article breaks down the most commonly applied for visa categories—such as visitor, student, family, and work visas—and outlines the corresponding fees and services for each.
What is a UK Visa?
A UK visa is an official document that grants non-British nationals legal permission to enter and stay in the United Kingdom for a specific purpose and duration. It may appear as a stamp in your passport or be issued as a separate document by a British consulate or embassy.
Visas are necessary for foreign nationals wishing to work, study, live temporarily or settle permanently in the UK.
Why Do You Need a UK Visa?
People apply for UK visas for various personal, professional, or humanitarian reasons, including:
- Employment and Business: To pursue work or business ventures within the UK.
- Education and Training: For academic studies or skill development programs.
- Short-Term Visits: For tourism, medical treatment, or attending events.
- Family Reunification: To join relatives who are legal residents of the UK.
- Transit: Passing through the UK en route to another country.
- Permanent Residency: To live in the UK long-term or permanently.
- Asylum and Humanitarian Grounds: For individuals escaping danger or persecution.
- Stateless Individuals: For those without citizenship seeking protection and recognition.
- Residency Extensions: For those already in the UK needing to extend their stay.
UK Visa Categories Available in 2025
If you’re applying from abroad, understanding which visa applies to your purpose of travel is crucial. Here’s a look at the key visa types:
Standard Visitor Visa
Designed for short-term stays (up to 6 months), this visa is for tourism, business visits, or private medical treatment. It does not allow employment, and applicants must show they intend to return home and can support themselves during their visit.
Student Visa
International students who wish to pursue education in the UK—whether short courses or long-term academic programs—must apply for a Student Visa. Applicants should provide proof of acceptance from an institution and evidence of financial ability.
Family Visa
This visa permits individuals to live with relatives already residing in the UK. Eligible relationships include spouses, children, parents, and other close family members.
Work and Business Visas
The UK offers work permits for skilled professionals. The Skilled Worker Visa, for example, enables UK employers to sponsor qualified professionals under employment contracts.
Refugee and Stateless Visas
The Temporary Refugee Visa is for individuals fleeing danger in their home countries. The Stateless Person Visa is available to those without recognized nationality and can be issued for 2–6 years.
Other Common Visas
- Settlement Visa
- Transit Visa
- Spouse/Partner Visa
- Tourist Visa
How to Apply for a UK Visa in 2025
Here’s a step-by-step guide to navigating the UK visa application process:
- Check Eligibility
Citizens from the EEA, Switzerland, or Commonwealth nations may not require a visa. - Select the Right Visa Type
Determine which visa suits your travel purpose to understand the necessary documents and criteria. - Fill Out the Online Application
Visit the UKVI website to complete and submit the appropriate application form. - Prepare Your Documents
Ensure all supporting documents are uploaded in clear PDF or JPEG format. - Book an Appointment
Schedule and pay for a visa appointment. Expedited services may cost more. - Attend the Interview
Attend your appointment with both original and photocopied documents.
Visa Processing Time
Generally, it takes about three weeks to process a UK visa, although this may vary depending on the visa category.
When Should You Apply?
Aim to apply at least 4–5 weeks before your planned travel date to allow ample processing time.
Required Documents for a UK Visa
Applicants must provide the following documents:
- Completed application form
- Two passport-size photos
- Valid passport (valid at least three months beyond your planned departure)
- Proof of financial support
- Accommodation details
- Travel itinerary
- Tuberculosis test result (if applicable)
- Biometric information
- Invitation and cover letters
- Proof of visa fee payment
- Certified translations for non-English/Welsh documents
Additional documents may include:
- Employment or academic letters
- Birth certificate for minors
UK Visa Fees for 2025
The cost of a UK visa varies by type. Fees have seen multiple increases, including a 7% hike in March 2025.
Current UK Visa Application Fees:
- Visitor Visa (6 months): £127
- Skilled Worker Visa: £769
- Innovator Founder Visa: £1,274
- High Potential Individual Visa: £880
- UK Expansion Worker Visa: £319
- Global Talent Visa: £766
- Scale-up Visa: £880
- Student Visa: £524
- Graduate Visa: £880
- Spouse Visa: £1,938
- Indefinite Leave to Remain: £3,029
- British Citizenship (Naturalisation): £1,605
Full list of all latest UK Visa Application Fees can be found on the United Kingdom Visas and Immigration (UKVI) website