Indian travelers and students planning to visit the United Kingdom and Australia will now have to bear higher visa costs, as both nations have increased visa fees starting April 1. The hikes, which reach up to 13%, impact multiple visa categories, including visitor, student, and work visas.

The decision, according to government officials from both countries, aligns with efforts to adjust visa processing costs, regulate immigration policies, and maintain sustainable migration levels. However, the increase has drawn concern from Indian travelers, students, and employers.

With a growing number of Indians choosing the UK and Australia for education, work, and tourism, the revised fees are expected to affect thousands of applicants.

United Kingdom: Higher Visa Fees for Tourists, Students, and Workers

The UK, a leading destination for Indian students and professionals, has raised visa fees across various categories. The British government announced these updates in 2024 as part of its immigration policy overhaul, stating that the additional costs will help sustain the country’s visa processing infrastructure.

New UK Visa Fees for Indians

• Visitor Visa (Standard 6-months): Increased from £115 to £127 (approx. ₹14,000).
• Long-term Visit Visa (10 years): Now costs £1,059, up from £963.
• Student Visa (General & Child): Increased from £490 to £524.
• Short-term Study Visa (6-11 months): Now £214, up from £200.
• Skilled Worker Visa (Up to 3 years): Increased from £719 to £769.
• Innovator Founder Visa: Now £1,274, up from £1,191.
• United Kingdom Visa Fees: www.gov.uk/visa-fees
• Australia Visa Fees: www.homeaffairs.gov.au

Higher Costs for Employers Sponsoring Workers

• Certificate of Sponsorship Fee: Now £525, previously £239.
• Sponsor License Fee (for large businesses): Increased to £1,579.

Additionally, Indian travelers planning short trips to the UK through the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system will now pay £16, up from £10.

The UK Home Office has justified the increase by stating that visa fees contribute to covering public services, including the National Health Service (NHS), which is accessible to visa holders.

Australia: Significant Hike in Student Visa Fees

While the UK’s visa fee hike is notable, Australia has taken an even more drastic step, particularly affecting international students. The cost of an Australian student visa has more than doubled, making it one of the most expensive student visa fees globally.

New Australian Visa Fees for Indians

• Student Visa: Increased from AUD 710 to AUD 1,600 (approx. ₹88,180).

The Australian government has justified this sharp increase as part of efforts to streamline immigration policies and manage the growing number of international students. However, the Indian government has expressed concern, seeking explanations for such a steep hike.

Australia has been one of the top choices for Indian students pursuing higher education, with over 120,000 Indian students enrolling in Australian institutions each year. With this significant increase in visa costs, students may face additional financial burdens alongside tuition fees and living expenses.

For more details on Australian visa fees, applicants can check: www.homeaffairs.gov.au.

Impact on Indian Travelers, Students, and Professionals

These visa fee hikes will directly affect Indian nationals in multiple ways:

1. Financial Burden on Students

• Indian students aiming for higher education in Australia may now reconsider their choices due to increased visa costs.
• The additional ₹88,000 for a visa could strain students already managing tuition fees, living expenses, and health insurance costs.

2. Costlier Travel for Tourists

• Families and individuals planning vacations or visiting relatives in the UK will now have to pay higher visa fees.
• The increased costs could discourage short-term travelers and affect the tourism industry.

3. Higher Expenses for Skilled Workers and Employers

• Indian professionals seeking jobs in the UK will now pay more for skilled worker visas.
• Companies in the UK hiring Indian talent must bear higher sponsorship costs, which could impact recruitment.

4. Increased Budget Planning for Applicants

• Those applying for visas must now budget for additional expenses, potentially affecting their overall travel or study plans.

Conclusion

The visa fee hikes by the UK and Australia come at a time when international travel and education are seeing a surge post-pandemic. While the governments of both nations defend the fee increases as necessary for covering administrative costs and maintaining migration policies, the financial impact on Indian applicants cannot be ignored.

As visa costs rise, Indian travelers, students, and professionals must carefully plan their applications and finances.