The United Kingdom has announced an upward review of visa application fees across various categories, with the new charges set to take effect from April 9, 2025.
According to details published by the UK Home Office, the cost of a study visa for both primary applicants and dependents will rise from £490 to £524. This adjustment comes as part of the British government’s broader policy changes affecting immigration and visa regulations.
Similarly, fees for visitor visas have been increased. The cost of a six-month visa will now be £127, up from £115, while the two-year visa has been adjusted from £432 to £475. Long-term visas were not left out, as the 10-year visa now costs £1,059, rising from £963.
Transit visas have also been impacted by the changes. The fee for a direct airside transit visa has been raised from £35 to £39, while the direct landside transit visa will now cost £70, up from £64.
The UK has long been a top destination for Nigerian students seeking higher education opportunities. However, recent policy shifts have contributed to a decline in visa applications from Nigeria. In 2024, the British government enforced restrictions on international students bringing family members, except for those enrolled in postgraduate research programs.
A report by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), released in March 2024, highlighted that these new restrictions have led to a decline in applications from key countries, including Nigeria and India. As a result, many prospective students are now exploring alternative study destinations.
With the new visa fees set to take effect, stakeholders in Nigeria’s education and travel sectors will be watching closely to assess the impact on students and travelers planning to visit the UK.
