The United Kingdom has officially increased visa fees across multiple categories, including student visas, effective April 8, 2026. The latest update from the UK Home Office directly impacts international students planning to study in the UK, particularly those from India.
UK Student Visa Fee Increased to GBP 558
As per the latest update, the UK student visa application fee has increased from GBP 524 to GBP 558. This change is part of a broader revision in immigration and nationality fees introduced by the UK government.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Remains a Major Cost
In addition to the visa application fee, students are required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is calculated based on the duration of the course.
- Master’s Degree (up to 18 months): GBP 1164
- Bachelor’s Degree (up to 42 months): GBP 2716
Total Cost for UK Student Visa in 2026
The total cost for applying for a UK student visa has increased significantly:
Postgraduate (PG)
- Visa Fee: GBP 558
- IHS: GBP 1164
- Total: GBP 1722
Undergraduate (UG)
- Visa Fee: GBP 558
- IHS: GBP 2716
- Total: GBP 3274
Why the UK Government Increased Visa Fees
The UK government has increased visa fees across categories by approximately 6–7 percent as part of its broader immigration policy changes.
This increase applies not only to students but also to workers, visitors, and settlement applicants.
Impact on Indian Students
The revised fee structure means higher upfront costs for Indian students planning to study in the UK. According to recent updates, the fee hike will affect a large number of applicants, as India remains one of the top sources of international students for the UK.
Students are now required to plan their finances more carefully, considering both visa and living expenses.
Additional Charges Students Should Know
Apart from the visa fee and IHS, students may also need to pay:
- VFS service charges
- Priority visa processing fees
- Premium services
These charges are optional and vary depending on the services selected.
Conclusion
The increase in UK student visa fees from April 2026 marks a significant change for international applicants. While the UK remains a top study destination, students must now prepare for higher application costs and plan their finances accordingly.
The UK student visa fee is GBP 558 from April 8, 2026.
It is a mandatory healthcare fee that allows access to the NHS in the UK.
The total cost is approximately GBP 1722 for postgraduate and GBP 3274 for undergraduate students.
The fee must be paid at the time of submitting the visa application online.