The full list of fees for immigration applications from inside and outside the UK applying from 6 April 2015 has been published and there are a number of significant increases.
From 6 April, there will be a 50% hike for visiting academics, a 57% increase for relatives of refugees, a 37% increase for family of members of the British armed forces and for other applications for settlement, a 150% for a confirmation of immigration status document and between 10% and 50% for a range of nationality applications.
APPLICATION OF HEALTH SURCHARGE
The “health surcharge” will also come into effect on 6 April 2015. The health surcharge will be paid by non-EEA nationals who apply to come to the UK to work, study or join family for a time-limited period of more than 6 months (with minor exemptions). It will also be paid by non-EEA nationals who are already in the UK and apply to extend their stay.
This will add to the cost of applications made on or after 6 April 2015. It would cost £200 a year for temporary migrants and £150 a year for students. This fee must be paid irrespective of whether they make any use of the NHS. Each dependent is charged the fee as well, which will quickly mount up for families coming to the UK for visits.
Family members of British citizens coming to the UK will generally be charged the same amount as their main applicant. The total surcharge amount for the whole period of leave granted will be required to be paid upfront. This charge will be calculated based on the amount of time a migrant would be permitted to stay in the UK either for entry clearance or extension application.
Do ensure that your surcharge is paid in full for applications made after the 5th of April 2015.
Ruby Anugwom is an associate in the immigration team at Stephens Scown and can be contacted on 01392 210700 or by email on immigration@stephens-scown.co.uk.