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The UK government has proposed an increase in the immigration health surcharge, which is set to take effect from January 16, 2024, or 21 days after receiving approval from Parliament, whichever is later.
The primary rate of the immigration health surcharge will see a significant rise, increasing from GBP 624 per year to GBP 1,035 per annum. For students or applicants under 18, the surcharge will increase from GBP 470 per year to GBP 776 per year. An immigration health surcharge is a mandatory upfront payment that must be made when submitting an application for entry or residency in the UK.
If applications are submitted before the implementation of this change, the higher surcharge won’t apply. Skilled worker and global business mobility visa applications can be submitted up to three months in advance of an individual’s proposed start date.
This increase in the immigration health surcharge will have financial implications for individuals and organizations alike, making it essential for those affected to plan accordingly and consider the timing of their applications.
In October, the Sunak government also increased visa fee for tourists, students and foreign workers. Visit visa got costlier by GBP 15 for stays under six months, bringing the total to GBP 115. Student visas saw an increase of GBP 127 for applicants from outside the UK, making the total fee GBP 490, aligning it with the amount charged for in-country student visa applications.
US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti on Monday visited the US mission in the national capital to oversee the “unprecedented demand” for US visitor visas among the Indians. The US envoy said that he was excited to join the Consular team which is working to meet the visa processing, making travel easier and reducing interview wait times.
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