The UK Home Office has announced a significant increase in visa fees effective April 9, 2025, impacting a wide range of categories, including students, workers, and even victims of domestic abuse.

In addition, travelers from visa-exempt countries who require an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) will also face higher fees starting April 2, 2025.

Key Changes in Visa Fees

The new fee structure includes:

• Standard Visitor Visa (6 months):
• Previous: £115 → New: £127 (10% increase)
• Two-Year Visitor Visa:
• Previous: £432 → New: £475
• Five-Year Visitor Visa:
• Previous: £771 → New: £848
• Ten-Year Visitor Visa:
• Previous: £963 → New: £1,059
• Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA):
• Previous: $12 → New: $20 (effective April 2, 2025)

Impact on International Students

International students are also affected by the fee hikes, including:

• Standard Student Visa:
• Previous: £490 → New: £524
• Child Student Visa:
• Previous: £490 → New: £524
• Short-Term English Language Course Visa:
• Previous: £200 → New: £214

Additionally, financial requirements for Ghanaian students studying in the UK have already increased since January 2025. Students now need to prove they have:

• £1,483 per month (up from £1,334) for London-based students
• £1,023 per month for other regions in the UK

Work Visa Categories Affected

• Health and Care Worker Visa:
• Previous: £367 → New: £470 (28.2% increase)
• Skilled Worker Visa (Shortage Occupations):
• Previous: £372 → New: £470 (26.3% increase)
• Priority Processing Fees:
• Remain largely unchanged, despite suggestions to increase these services.

Why the Fee Hikes?

The UK government stated that the adjustments aim to keep up with inflation and support the Home Office's operational costs. Financial requirements will continue to be reviewed regularly.

Scholarship Students in Trouble

The fee hikes follow recent challenges faced by some Ghanaian students in the UK. In 2024, a number of students at the University of Birmingham faced deportation due to delayed tuition payments, highlighting the financial pressures of studying abroad.

What This Means for Ghanaians and Other Travelers

With the new increases:

• Travel to the UK will become more expensive for tourists, students, and workers.
• Families accompanying visa applicants will need to prove they have extra funds for each member.
• Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) will be more costly, especially for frequent travelers.