Government Fees for Skilled Workers: Changes Introduced in April 2024
In April 2024, the UK government implemented significant changes to the fee structure for skilled worker visas. These changes impact both prospective employees and employers, aiming to balance economic growth with the sustainability of the immigration system. At MRK Immigration, we strive to keep you informed about these crucial updates.
New Fee Structure Overview
The primary changes involve increases in visa application fees, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), and the Immigration Skills Charge, reflecting the government’s efforts to ensure the immigration system remains adequately funded.
1. Visa Application Fees: As of April 2024, the standard application fees for skilled worker visas have increased. The new fees are:
- Shortage Occupation List roles: £610 for up to three years, £1,220 for more than three years.
- Non-Shortage Occupation List roles: £704 for up to three years, £1,408 for more than three years.
These fees apply to each applicant and their dependents.
2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): From February 2024, the IHS has seen a substantial increase, as approved by Parliament. The updated annual fees are:
- Adults: From £624 to £1,035 per year.
- Students, Youth Mobility Scheme applicants, and children: From £470 to £776 per year.
For example, a Skilled Worker applying for a five-year visa would now pay £5,175 for the IHS, up from £3,120.
3. Immigration Skills Charge: The Immigration Skills Charge, payable by employers sponsoring skilled workers, has also increased. The new rates are:
- Large sponsors: £1,000 per year per sponsored worker.
- Small or charitable sponsors: £364 per year per sponsored worker.
Implications for Employers
Increased Financial Responsibility: The increased fees mean that employers must allocate a larger budget for recruiting and sponsoring skilled workers. This could impact hiring strategies, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with limited resources.
Strategic Workforce Planning: Employers need to plan their recruitment processes more strategically, considering the total costs of hiring international talent, including salary and immigration fees. Consulting with immigration experts, like MRK Immigration, can help employers navigate these costs and ensure compliance with all regulations.
Supporting Employees: Employers may consider supporting their employees by covering some of these costs, which can make job offers more attractive to international candidates.
Implications for Skilled Workers
Financial Preparation: Prospective skilled workers should be aware of the increased costs associated with their visa applications. Financial planning is essential to cover the visa fees, IHS, and other related expenses for themselves and their dependents.
Job Security: Despite higher costs, securing a skilled worker visa provides significant benefits, including job security and a potential pathway to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after five years. Skilled workers should weigh these long-term benefits against the upfront costs.
Dependents: Skilled workers planning to bring family members must factor in the increased costs for each dependent, including visa fees and the IHS.
How MRK Immigration Can Assist
Navigating the complexities of the new fee structure can be challenging, but MRK Immigration is here to help. Our comprehensive services include:
1. Fee Consultation: We offer detailed consultations to help you understand the full cost of your visa application, including all government fees and additional expenses.
2. Application Support: Our team provides end-to-end support throughout the visa application process, ensuring that all documents are correctly prepared and submitted on time.
3. Employer Guidance: For employers, we provide strategic advice on managing the financial implications of the new fees, helping you plan and budget effectively for your recruitment needs.
4. Ongoing Assistance: We offer continuous support to both employers and skilled workers, keeping you informed about any further changes in immigration laws and helping you remain compliant.
Staying informed about the latest changes in government fees and immigration policies is essential for making informed decisions. For expert advice and personalized support, contact MRK Immigration today. Visit MRK Immigration to learn more and to schedule a consultation. Let us help you navigate the complexities of UK immigration and achieve your employment goals in the UK.
As of April 2024, the UK government has implemented new changes to the fee structure for skilled worker visas, reflecting its ongoing efforts to balance economic growth with fair labor market practices. Understanding these updates is crucial for both employers and prospective employees. At MRK Immigration, we aim to provide you with a clear overview of these changes and how they might affect your plans to work or hire in the UK.
Overview of the New Fee Structure
The changes introduced in April 2024 primarily focus on increasing the government fees associated with skilled worker visas. These adjustments are designed to ensure that the immigration system is adequately funded and can efficiently process the increasing number of applications.
1. Visa Application Fees: The standard visa application fees for skilled workers have seen an increase. As of April 2024, the fees are structured as follows:
- Shortage Occupation List roles: £610 for up to three years, and £1,220 for more than three years.
- Non-Shortage Occupation List roles: £704 for up to three years, and £1,408 for more than three years.
These fees apply to each applicant and any dependents they may include in their application.
2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): The Immigration Health Surcharge has also increased. The new rate is £624 per year for each applicant and dependent. This fee contributes to the cost of using the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during their stay.
3. Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Employers must continue to pay for a Certificate of Sponsorship, which remains at £199 per certificate. This is required for each skilled worker they wish to sponsor.
4. Immigration Skills Charge: The Immigration Skills Charge, which employers must pay to sponsor skilled workers, has seen a rise as well. The new rates are:
- Large sponsors: £1,000 per year per sponsored worker.
- Small or charitable sponsors: £364 per year per sponsored worker.
This charge is intended to incentivize businesses to train and invest in the UK’s resident workforce.
Implications for Employers
Increased Financial Responsibility: The increased fees mean that employers will need to allocate a larger budget for recruiting and sponsoring skilled workers. This could impact hiring strategies, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with limited resources.
Strategic Planning: Employers will need to plan their recruitment more strategically, considering the total cost of hiring international talent. This includes not only the salary but also the associated immigration fees. Engaging with immigration experts, like those at MRK Immigration, can help employers navigate these costs effectively and ensure compliance with all regulations.
Supporting Employees: Employers may also consider supporting their employees by covering some of these costs, which can enhance the attractiveness of their job offers to international candidates.
Implications for Skilled Workers
Financial Preparation: Prospective skilled workers should be aware of the increased costs associated with their visa applications. Financial planning is essential to cover the visa fees, IHS, and other related expenses for themselves and their dependents.
Job Security: Despite the higher costs, obtaining a skilled worker visa provides significant benefits, including job security and the potential pathway to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) after five years. Skilled workers should weigh these long-term benefits against the upfront costs.
Dependents: Skilled workers planning to bring their family members should factor in the increased costs for each dependent, including visa fees and the IHS.
How MRK Immigration Can Assist
Navigating the complexities of the new fee structure can be challenging, but MRK Immigration is here to help. Our comprehensive services include:
1. Fee Consultation: We offer detailed consultations to help you understand the full cost of your visa application, including all government fees and additional expenses.
2. Application Support: Our team provides end-to-end support throughout the visa application process, ensuring that all documents are correctly prepared and submitted on time.
3. Employer Guidance: For employers, we provide strategic advice on managing the financial implications of the new fees, helping you plan and budget effectively for your recruitment needs.
4. Ongoing Assistance: We offer continuous support to both employers and skilled workers, keeping you informed about any further changes in immigration laws and helping you remain compliant.
Staying informed about the latest changes in government fees and immigration policies is essential for making informed decisions. For expert advice and personalized support, contact MRK Immigration today. Visit MRK Immigration to learn more and to schedule a consultation. Let us help you navigate the complexities of UK immigration and achieve your employment goals in the UK.