On the 11 January 2016, the government set out its proposed changes to the fees for visas, immigration and nationality applications and associated premium services for 2016–17.
Specific fee changes for 2016–17 will apply after further legislation is laid in Parliament by April this year.
The new legislation will set new maximum levels on the amounts for broad categories of fees that can be charged by the Home Office over the next 4 years. There are no current plans to raise fees to the maximum levels.
The increases will help, according to the Home Office, to reduce taxpayer contributions towards the border, immigration and citizenship system.
The Home Office hope that by 2019–2020 the system is self-funded by those who use it.
The main changes are:
- small increases (2%) for visit, study and work visas
- fees for settlement, residence and nationality will increase by 25% in 2016–17
- targeted increases have been applied to premium services, such as the priority visa service
Submission fees for all sponsorship categories will stay at the current rates.
It is therefore important that any applicants who are only able to apply after April 2016 ensure they pay the correct fee.
If you believe you can submit before April 2016 please contact our office, 01793 836 010, and we can assist with your application.