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Breaking: New UK Visa Fees Take Effect Today
If you are planning to travel, study, or work in the United Kingdom, your budget just changed. As of today, Wednesday, April 8, 2026, the British High Commission has officially implemented a nationwide increase in visa application fees.
The UK Home Office confirmed that most visa categories—including visitor, student, and skilled worker routes—have seen a price jump of approximately 6% to 7%. This move is part of the UK government’s strategy to cover rising administrative costs and fund the country’s public services.
The “Hidden” Change: ETA Fee Jump
One of the most significant changes affects the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). While previously priced at £16, the digital permit has jumped to £20 as of this morning. Although a small increase in absolute terms, it represents a 25% hike and impacts travelers from visa-exempt countries (like the US, Australia, and parts of Europe) who transit through London.
No Change to IHS (For Now)
In a bit of good news for Indian students and workers, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) remains unchanged in this specific April update. It stays at £776 per year for students and £1,035 per year for most other long-term visa holders. However, with the application fee itself rising, the “total landing cost” for an Indian family is now at an all-time high.
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UK Visa Fee Comparison Table (2025 vs. 2026)
Note: INR values are approximate based on an exchange rate of ₹108 per £1.
| Visa Category | Old Fee (Until April 7) | New Fee (From April 8) | Increase (GBP) | Est. New Cost (INR) |
| Standard Visitor (6 Months) | £127 | £135 | +£8 | ₹14,580 |
| Visitor Visa (2 Years) | £475 | £506 | +£31 | ₹54,648 |
| Student Visa (Outside UK) | £524 | £558 | +£34 | ₹60,264 |
| Graduate Route (2 Years) | £880 | £937 | +£57 | ₹1,01,196 |
| Skilled Worker (≤ 3 Years) | £769 | £819 | +£50 | ₹88,452 |
| Skilled Worker (> 3 Years) | £1,519 | £1,618 | +£99 | ₹1,74,744 |
| Settlement (ILR) | £3,029 | £3,226 | +£197 | ₹3,48,408 |
Strategy for BollywoodView Readers
With the British High Commission in India processing record numbers of applications from Hyderabad, Delhi, and Mumbai, here is what you need to know:
- The “Submit” Rule: If you haven’t paid your fee yet, you must pay the new rate. Even if you started your application yesterday, the price is determined by the moment of payment.
- Priority Services: Priority and Super Priority fees have also seen adjustments. Expect to pay around ₹88,000 (£825) extra for a 5-day decision.
- Currency Fluctuation: The Home Office updates its internal exchange rate every quarter. Check with VFS Global for the exact INR amount during your biometric appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When exactly did the UK visa fee increase start?
The new fees came into effect at 00:01 AM on April 8, 2026.
2. Is the Health Surcharge (IHS) increasing too?
No, the Immigration Health Surcharge remains at its 2025 levels (£776 for students / £1,035 for others) in this April 8 update.
3. Does the fee change apply to child visas?
Yes, the increase applies to both main applicants and their dependents (spouse and children).
4. What is the new cost for a 6-month UK Tourist Visa for Indians?
The new fee is £135, which is roughly ₹14,580 (excluding VFS service charges).
5. How much is the UK Student Visa fee now?
For Indian students applying from outside the UK, the fee is now £558 (approx. ₹60,264).
Author: bollywoodview.in