This page has been reviewed and verified by Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor, to ensure accuracy under current UK immigration policy. Confirm your visa requirements via Our UK Visa Guidance.
The cost of a UK Work Permit (Work Visa) depends on the type of visa, how long it is valid for, and whether you apply from inside or outside the United Kingdom. Applicants must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) and, in some cases, the Immigration Skills Charge if sponsored by an employer. Below is an updated breakdown of UK Work Visa fees as of October 2025, based on current Home Office guidance.
Average Costs for UK Work Permits
As of 2025, the standard application fees for the most common UK work visas are:
- Skilled Worker Visa (up to 3 years): £719 per applicant
- Skilled Worker Visa (more than 3 years): £1,420 per applicant
- Health and Care Worker Visa: £284 per applicant
- Temporary Worker Visa: £298 per applicant
- Graduate Visa: £822 per applicant
Fees are subject to change annually. For a complete list of updated costs across all visa categories, see UK Visa Fees 2025.
Healthcare Surcharge (IHS)
Most applicants must also pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) when applying for a UK Work Visa. This surcharge grants access to the National Health Service (NHS) during your stay in the UK. The current rates are:
- £1,035 per year for adults
- £776 per year for children under 18
Health and Care Worker Visa applicants and their dependants are exempt from paying the IHS. However, all other work visa holders must pay the fee for each year of their visa at the time of application.
Immigration Skills Charge (for Employers)
Employers sponsoring a Skilled Worker or Global Business Mobility visa holder must pay an additional Immigration Skills Charge (ISC). The fee depends on the size of the sponsoring organisation:
- Large employers: £1,000 per sponsored worker per year
- Small or charitable sponsors: £364 per sponsored worker per year
This charge is payable directly by the employer and cannot be passed on to the employee under UK immigration law.
Additional Costs to Consider
- English Language Test: £150–£200 (if required)
- Biometric enrolment: £19.20 per applicant
- Legal or document preparation fees: Varies depending on professional service used
- Priority Service: Additional £500 (decision within 5 working days)
- Super Priority Service: Additional £1,000 (decision within 24 hours)
Applicants may check upgrade availability through their nearest UK Visa Application Processing Centre.
Shortage Occupation Discount
If your job is listed on the UK Shortage Occupation List, your Skilled Worker Visa application fee may be reduced. For example:
- Up to 3 years: £551 per applicant
- More than 3 years: £1,084 per applicant
Applicants under shortage occupation roles may also benefit from faster processing times in some cases.
Temporary and Youth Mobility Work Visas
The Temporary Worker Visa and Youth Mobility Scheme Visa cost around £298 each. These visas typically last up to 2 years and do not require employer sponsorship. For eligibility details, visit How Long Can I Stay in the UK with a Business Visa?.
Tips for Applicants
- Check whether your occupation qualifies for a lower fee under the shortage occupation list.
- Budget for additional costs such as healthcare and document certification.
- Ensure your employer pays the Immigration Skills Charge (if applicable) before you submit your application.
- Keep payment confirmation receipts for both the application and the IHS surcharge.
Related Guidance
- How Can I Get a Work Permit for the UK?
- How to Apply for a UK Skilled Worker Visa
- UK Visa Priority Service Availability 2025
- UK Visa Supporting Documents – Digital Upload Guide
About This Page
Author: UK Visa Applications Editorial Team
Reviewed by: Michael Gibbons, UK Solicitor and Regulated Immigration Advisor
Last Updated: October 2025
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