ArticleHow much does it cost to apply for a skilled worker visa in 2024?

After the latest increase in application fees and Immigration Health Surcharge, obtaining a Skilled Worker visa in the UK can become a daunting task for many individuals and families. The process involves understanding and calculating fees, which can vary significantly based on the duration of the visa and the number of family members involved. Providing a clear and comprehensive breakdown of these skilled worker visa costs is crucial to assist potential migrants in effectively planning their move to the UK.

Cost for an Individual for a 3-Year Skilled Worker Visa

The total cost for an individual applying for a 3-year Skilled Worker visa comprises the visa application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for three years.

  • Visa Application Fee (inside the UK) : £827 (for a CoS valid up to 3 years)
  • IHS Fee: £1035 per year x 3 years = £3105
  • Total Cost: £827 + £3105 = £3932

*Please note that the visa application for applicants outside the UK is £719 (for a Cos valid up to 3 years). The IHS is the same for all applicants as eligible.

Cost for an Individual for a 5-Year Skilled Worker Visa

For a 5-year Skilled Worker visa, the costs include a higher visa application fee and a longer duration for the IHS.

  • Visa Application Fee (inside the UK): £1636 (for a CoS valid for 3+ years)
  • IHS Fee: £1035 per year x 5 years = £5175
  • Total Cost: £1636 + £5175 = £6811

*Please note that the visa application for applicants outside the UK is £1420 (for a Cos valid for 3+ years). The IHS is the same for all applicants as eligible.

Cost for an Individual with a Dependent for a 5-Year Skilled Worker Visa

When including a dependent, the visa application fees and IHS fees are multiplied accordingly.

  • Individual’s Visa Fee (inside the UK): £1636
  • Dependent’s Visa Fee (inside the UK): £1636
  • Individual’s IHS (5 years): £1035 x 5 = £5175
  • Dependent’s IHS (5 years): £1035 x 5 = £5175
  • Total Cost: £1636 x 2 + £5175 x 2 = £13622
Cost for an Individual with a Dependent and a Child – 5-Year Skilled Worker Visa

When including a dependent and a child, the visa application fees and IHS fees are multiplied accordingly.

  • Individual’s Visa Fee: £1636
  • Dependent’s Visa Fee: £1636
  • Child’s Visa Fee: £1636
  • Individual’s IHS: £1035 per year x 5 years = £5175
  • Dependent’s IHS: £1035 per year x 5 years = £5175
  • Child’s IHS (under the age of 18): £776 per year x 5 years = £3880
  • Total Cost: (£1636 x 3) + £5175 + £5175 + £3880 = £19138
Cost for an Individual with a Dependent and Two Children – 5-Year Skilled Worker Visa

For a family with two children, the costs further increase.

  • Individual’s Visa Fee: £1636
  • Dependent’s Visa Fee: £1636
  • First Child’s Visa Fee: £1636
  • Second Child’s Visa Fee: £1636
  • Individual’s IHS: £1035 per year x 5 years = £5175
  • Dependent’s IHS: £1035 per year x 5 years = £5175
  • Each Child’s IHS: £776 per year x 5 years = £3880 x 2 = £7760
  • Total Cost: (£1636 x 4) + £5175 + £5175 + £7760 = £24654

The financial commitments associated with obtaining a Skilled Worker visa in the UK can be significant, particularly for families. This detailed cost breakdown is intended to provide a clearer picture of what to expect financially when planning immigration to the UK. For personalised advice and assistance, consulting with a qualified immigration barrister is highly recommended to navigate these complexities efficiently and effectively.

Please note that the immigration rules are constantly changing. It is always better to stay updated with information from the UK government’s official website.

Get in touch:  For a comprehensive understanding of your options or queries on UK immigration matters, contact GigaLegal Solicitors at 02074067654 or click here to book a no-obligation consultation with an immigration expert.