The UK government has confirmed a new round of immigration fee increases that will take effect from April 8, 2026, affecting international students, graduates, visitors, skilled workers, and UK institutions sponsoring overseas applicants.
The latest changes announced by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) include higher fees for Student visas, Graduate Route applications, visitor visas, and sponsor licences used by universities and employers.
For international students planning to study or work in the UK, these fee increases add to the overall cost of studying abroad and should be factored into application budgets.
UK student visa fees increasing in April 2026
The most relevant fee changes for students are:
| Visa category | Current fee | New fee from 8 April 2026 | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student visa | £524 | £558 | +£34 |
| Child Student visa | £524 | £558 | +£34 |
| Short-term Student visa | £214 | £228 | +£14 |
| Graduate Route | £880 | £937 | +£57 |
The Student visa fee increase applies to both:
- Main applicants
- Dependants
Students applying from overseas or extending their Student visa inside the UK will pay the same updated fee of £558.
Graduate Route visa now costs £937
The UK’s post-study work visa, known as the Graduate Route, will rise from £880 to £937.
This route allows international graduates to stay in the UK after completing eligible degrees:
- 2 years after undergraduate or master’s degrees
- 3 years after PhD completion
Although the Graduate Route remains an important advantage of studying in the UK, the higher fee adds additional financial pressure for graduates already managing tuition debt, rent, and job search costs.
Students should also remember that visa fees are separate from the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
Visitor visa and ETA fees also rising
Students and families visiting the UK will also face higher travel-related costs.
Visitor and travel authorization fees
| Category | Current fee | New fee |
|---|---|---|
| Visitor visa (up to 6 months) | £127 | £135 |
| ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) | £16 | £20 |
The ETA fee increase is particularly relevant for nationals required to obtain pre-travel authorization before entering the UK.
Skilled Worker visa fees also increase
International graduates transitioning from the Graduate Route to work visas will also see higher costs.
Skilled Worker visa (outside UK)
| Category | Current fee | New fee |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker (up to 3 years) | £769 | £819 |
| Skilled Worker (over 3 years) | £1,519 | £1,618 |
Skilled Worker visa (inside UK)
| Category | Current fee | New fee |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker (up to 3 years) | £885 | £943 |
| Skilled Worker (over 3 years) | £1,751 | £1,865 |
For graduates hoping to remain in the UK long-term, the pathway from Student visa → Graduate Route → Skilled Worker is becoming progressively more expensive.
UK universities face higher sponsorship costs
Institutions sponsoring international students will also pay higher licence fees.
Sponsorship fee increases
| Licence type | Current fee | New fee |
|---|---|---|
| Student sponsor licence | £574 | £611 |
| Worker sponsor licence (small sponsor) | £574 | £611 |
| Worker and Student sponsor licence (large sponsor) | £1,579 | £1,682 |
These increased operational costs may indirectly affect international recruitment strategies, compliance budgets, and institutional costs.
However, the Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) fee remains unchanged at £55.
What do these changes mean for international students?
The UK remains one of the world’s most attractive study destinations because of:
- Globally recognized universities
- Strong research reputation
- English-language education
- Graduate Route post-study work opportunities
However, international students now need to budget more carefully for the full cost of studying in the UK.
Applicants should account for:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation and living costs
- Student visa fees
- Immigration Health Surcharge
- Graduate Route fees
- Potential future Skilled Worker visa costs
Students who are ready to apply may consider submitting applications before April 8, 2026, where possible, to avoid paying higher fees.
Final thoughts
The UK’s April 2026 immigration fee increases reflect a broader rise in visa and sponsorship costs across study, work, and settlement routes.
While the UK remains competitive globally, higher visa-related expenses mean international students should prepare for greater upfront costs when planning their study journey.
StudyAnywhere will continue updating visa guidance and country information pages to reflect these latest changes.