Estimate only. Fees reviewed July 2025. Always verify on GOV.UK before applying. This is not legal or immigration advice.
Overview of Skilled Worker Visa Fees
The Skilled Worker visa is the main route for non-UK nationals to work in the UK in an eligible skilled job. It replaced the Tier 2 (General) visa in December 2020. The total cost of a Skilled Worker visa application is made up of several distinct charges — and the combined total is often significantly higher than applicants expect.
The fees below are for applications made from outside the UK or from inside the UK as an extension or switch. The same fee structure applies in both cases.
Visa Application Fee
The visa application fee depends on the duration of the visa and whether you qualify for the new entrant rate:
| Duration | Standard rate | New entrant rate |
|---|---|---|
| Up to 3 years | £719 | £551 |
| More than 3 years (up to 5 years) | £1,423 | £1,084 |
Each dependant pays the same visa application fee.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
The IHS is charged at £1,035 per person, per year for Skilled Worker visa holders. It is calculated on the full visa duration, rounded up to the nearest year, and paid upfront for all applicants including dependants.
| Visa duration | IHS per person | IHS for 2 people |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | £1,035 | £2,070 |
| 2 years | £2,070 | £4,140 |
| 3 years | £3,105 | £6,210 |
| 4 years | £4,140 | £8,280 |
| 5 years | £5,175 | £10,350 |
Worked Examples
Example 1: Single applicant, 3-year visa (standard rate)
Example 2: Applicant + 1 dependant, 3-year visa (standard rate)
Example 3: Applicant + 1 dependant, 5-year visa (standard rate)
Other Costs to Budget For
The visa fee and IHS are the main government charges, but there are other costs that many applicants overlook:
- Priority Service (£500): Aims to process your application within 5 working days. Available for in-country applications only.
- Super Priority Service (£1,000): Aims to process your application by the end of the next working day. Available for in-country applications only.
- English language test: If required, tests such as IELTS or a Secure English Language Test (SELT) typically cost £150–£200.
- Document translation: If any of your documents are not in English, certified translations will be required. Costs vary.
- Immigration solicitor fees: Optional but recommended for complex cases. Fees vary widely — typically £500–£2,000+ for a straightforward application.
- Biometric enrolment (overseas): If applying from outside the UK, you will need to attend a visa application centre to enrol biometrics. Fees vary by country.
The Health and Care Worker Alternative
If you are a doctor, nurse, or other health or adult social care professional, you may qualify for the Health and Care Worker visa instead of the standard Skilled Worker route. The key differences are:
- Significantly lower visa application fee (£247 for up to 3 years; £479 for more than 3 years)
- IHS is completely exempt — for both the main applicant and dependants
- You must be sponsored by an NHS body, NHS GP practice, or a CQC-registered employer
For a 3-year visa with one dependant, the saving compared to the standard Skilled Worker route is approximately £7,154 (£7,648 vs £494).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new entrant rate for the Skilled Worker visa?
The new entrant rate is £551 (up to 3 years) or £1,084 (more than 3 years). You qualify as a new entrant if you are under 26, are switching from a Student or Graduate visa, or are working in a role on the shortage occupation list. Your employer should confirm whether you qualify.
Does my employer pay the visa fee?
The visa application fee and IHS are typically paid by the applicant, though some employers choose to reimburse these costs. The Immigration Skills Charge (a separate fee paid by the employer to the Home Office) is always the employer's responsibility and is not included in this calculator.
What is the Immigration Skills Charge?
The Immigration Skills Charge (ISC) is a fee paid by the sponsoring employer — not the applicant — to the Home Office. It is £1,000 per year for large sponsors and £364 per year for small or charitable sponsors. It is separate from the visa application fee and IHS.
Can I switch to a Skilled Worker visa from inside the UK?
Yes, in most cases. If you are already in the UK on a qualifying visa (e.g. Student, Graduate, or another work visa), you can switch to a Skilled Worker visa without leaving the UK. The same fees apply.
How long does a Skilled Worker visa last?
A Skilled Worker visa can be granted for up to 5 years. After 5 years of continuous residence in the UK on a Skilled Worker visa, you may be eligible to apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR).