UK increases visa fees for Indians, other nationals to.
The United Kingdom has also implemented a hike in fees for its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, which is a mandatory requirement for travelers from specific countries. This change is part of the UK government’s broader adjustments to its immigration and travel policies, aimed at streamlining entry procedures while generating additional revenue.
The ETA system is designed to enhance border security and facilitate smoother travel for eligible visitors. However, the increased fees mean that individuals planning to visit the UK under this scheme will now have to pay more to obtain the necessary authorization.
Authorities have justified the fee revision by citing the need to maintain and improve immigration services, ensuring that the system remains efficient and secure. The changes impact travelers from multiple countries who require an ETA for short visits, including those for tourism, business, or transit purposes.
This latest revision aligns with the UK’s ongoing efforts to regulate its border policies, while also addressing administrative costs associated with processing travel authorizations more effectively.
Travelers from India and several other nations planning to visit the United Kingdom (UK) will now need to allocate additional funds for their trips as visa fees have been increased.
Increase in UK Visa Fees
Effective from April 1, 2025, the cost of the standard visitor visa, which is a requirement for Indian, Pakistani, and Nigerian nationals, has been raised from 115 UK pounds to 127 UK pounds. This marks a 12 UK pound increase for the basic six-month visa option.
Higher Costs for Long-Term UK Visitor Visas
For individuals who frequently travel to the UK, the fees for long-term visas have also been revised upwards:
- The two-year visa now costs 475 UK pounds, up from the previous 432 UK pounds.
- The five-year visa fee has increased to 848 UK pounds from 771 UK pounds.
- The ten-year visa now costs 1059 UK pounds, compared to the earlier fee of 963 UK pounds.
These long-term visa options continue to be widely used by family visitors, business travelers, and tourists who visit the UK frequently. However, each stay under these visas remains limited to six months per visit.
Rise in Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Fees
Beyond the visa fee increases, the UK has also raised fees for its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system, which applies to travelers from visa-exempt countries. The cost of obtaining an ETA has risen from 10 UK pounds to 16 UK pounds.
Currently, the ETA system is applicable to visitors from countries such as the United States, European Union nations, Australia, Japan, and several Gulf states. The system is designed to streamline entry procedures while ensuring border security.
UK Visa Application Process for Indian Nationals
Indian citizens applying for a UK visa must go through a structured process that includes completing an online application and attending a biometric appointment at a designated visa center.
The essential documents required for the visa application typically include:
- A valid passport
- A detailed travel itinerary
- Accommodation details
Visa processing generally takes around three weeks, but delays may occur, especially during peak travel periods. Additionally, some applicants may be required to attend an interview as part of the assessment process.
ETA Application Process for Visa-Exempt Travelers
Unlike traditional visa applicants, travelers from visa-exempt countries enjoy a more straightforward process for obtaining an ETA. The entire application can be completed online or via a mobile application without the need to submit physical documents or attend an in-person appointment.
Most ETA approvals are issued within three working days. Once granted, the authorization remains valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever occurs first.
Broader Implications of the Fee Hike
The recent increases in visa and ETA fees reflect the UK government’s broader immigration and border security policies. Officials have justified these fee hikes as necessary to maintain and enhance the country’s visa and travel authorization systems.
The higher costs may impact budget-conscious travelers, particularly students, tourists, and business professionals who frequently visit the UK. However, for many, the UK remains a preferred destination due to its educational institutions, business opportunities, and tourism attractions.
With these adjustments in place, prospective visitors are encouraged to plan ahead and factor in the revised fees when budgeting for their travel expenses to the UK.