Immigration and Nationality (Fees) Regulations 2016 / IHS Surcharge
UK Visa Fees Complete Guide 2026 (All Visa Categories)
Complete breakdown of all UK visa application fees: Skilled Worker £719–£1,639, Standard Visitor £115, Student £490, ILR £2,885, Citizenship £1,500, and IHS £1,035/yr.
Overview
UK visa fees are set by the Immigration and Nationality (Fees) Regulations 2016. A 20% uplift was applied to most visa categories from 4 October 2023. In addition to visa fees, most applicants for visas over 6 months must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) at £1,035 per year (£776 for students). The ILR fee is £2,885 per adult and the British Citizenship naturalisation fee is £1,500.
Key Facts & Statutory Reference
| Item | Detail | Statutory / Official Source |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker Visa (up to 3yr) | £719 (outside UK) / £827 (inside UK) | Fees Regs SI 2016/177 |
| Skilled Worker Visa (over 3yr) | £1,639 (outside) / £1,500 (inside) | Fees Regs SI 2016/177 |
| Standard Visitor Visa | £115 for up to 6 months | Fees Regs 2023 amendment |
| Student Visa | £490 (outside UK) | Fees Regs 2023 |
| ILR (Indefinite Leave to Remain) | £2,885 per adult applicant | Fees Regs 2023 |
| British Citizenship (Naturalisation) | £1,500 per adult | British Nationality Act 1981 |
| IHS (per year) | £1,035 adult / £776 student | Immigration Act 2014 s.38 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No. The Home Office retains the visa application fee regardless of the outcome. The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is refunded only if the visa is refused.
UK visa fee waivers are extremely limited. Victims of domestic abuse applying for leave under Appendix Domestic Violence and certain asylum seekers may qualify for fee exemptions, but this does not apply to standard visa categories.