New Home Office Fee Increases

Yes, I am afraid it’s that time of year again… Home Office fee increases.

On 26 February 2016, the Home Office announced the extent of the increase in fees for applications made from within the UK, which will come into effect from 18 March 2016, not 6 April 2016 as originally planned. These increases are apparently in line with the Government’s stated aim of ensuring that the border and immigration system is fully self-funding.

Further leave to remain applications, settlement and nationality applications will be subject to fee increases of up to 25%. The Home Office justifies the increase by saying “these products deliver the most benefits to successful applicants such as indefinite leave to enter or remain in the UK, full access to healthcare and other public services and unrestricted access to the labour market.”

Additionally, premium services offered by the Home Office which are optional such as the premium service, super premium service and priority visa services overseas, will be subject to fee increases of up to 33%.

Whilst Tier 2 work visas and student visas from which the UK derives economic benefit, as well as visit visa fees will only rise by 2% as the UK wishes to remain competitive in its position as one of the world’s top tourist destination.

A full list of the new fees applicable from 18 March 2016 can be found here>>

If you wish to make an application and are eligible to make one, we would be happy to assess your case and assist you in filing an application prior to the fee increases.

For further advice, please contact Dhruti Thakrar – Head of Immigration, or a member of the Immigration team at Edwin Coe.

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