UK Visa Fees (2026 Guide)

UK visa fees depend on the type of visa, duration, and whether you choose standard or priority processing. This guide explains all UK visa costs for Indians in a simple breakdown.

Last updated: May 2026

Do Indians Need to Pay for UK Visa?

Yes. All Indian applicants must pay a visa fee when applying for a UK visa. The fee is paid online during the application process.

UK Visa Fees Overview

Visa TypeFee (Approx.)
Standard Visitor Visa (6 months)£115
Long-term Visitor (2 years)£400+
Long-term Visitor (5 years)£770+
Long-term Visitor (10 years)£960+
Student Visa£490
Skilled Worker Visa£700–£1,500+

Additional Costs You May Pay

Apart from the visa fee, you may also need to pay for:

  • VFS Global service charge
  • Priority visa service (optional)
  • Super priority service (expensive but fast)
  • Immigration Health Surcharge (for long-term visas)

Priority Visa Fees

If you want faster processing, additional services are available:

ServiceExtra CostProcessing Time
PriorityHigh extra fee5–7 working days
Super PriorityVery high fee24–48 hours

What Affects UK Visa Cost?

UK visa cost depends on:

  • Visa type (tourist, student, work)
  • Duration (6 months vs long-term)
  • Processing speed (standard vs priority)
  • Immigration Health Surcharge (for long stays)

Hidden Costs to Be Aware Of

Many applicants forget to budget for:

  • Travel insurance (recommended)
  • Document translation (if needed)
  • Biometrics appointment travel cost
  • Courier fees (passport delivery)

Tips to Avoid Overpaying

  • Choose the correct visa type first
  • Avoid unnecessary long-term visa if not needed
  • Don't pay for priority unless you have urgent travel plans
  • Double-check all optional add-ons before payment

Where Do You Pay UK Visa Fees?

Payment is made online:

  • UK Government visa portal
  • During application submission
  • Before VFS appointment booking

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is UK visa fee from India?

UK visitor visa fee is usually around £115 for 6 months, but higher for long-term visas.

Is UK visa fee refundable?

No, UK visa fees are non-refundable even if your application is rejected.

Do I pay extra for VFS?

Yes, VFS Global charges a separate service fee for handling biometrics and documents.

What is the cheapest UK visa?

The standard 6-month visitor visa is the cheapest option.

Can UK visa fees change?

Yes, UK visa fees are updated periodically by UKVI.