The Tier 2 visa is one of the most common types of work visas for non-EU nationals who wish to live and work in the United Kingdom. This visa is intended for individuals who have received a job offer from a UK employer who holds a valid sponsor licence. If you are considering applying for a Tier 2 visa, it’s important to understand the costs involved in the application process. The total cost of obtaining a Tier 2 visa can vary based on several factors, including the duration of your stay, your job type, and whether you qualify for lower application fees.
This article will provide a comprehensive breakdown of the various fees and costs associated with a Tier 2 visa. We will also discuss the payment methods, processing times, and important updates you should be aware of.
Application Fees for a Tier 2 Visa
The application fees for a Tier 2 visa are based on the length of stay and the nature of the job. The fees can vary significantly depending on whether the job is listed on the immigration salary list or not.
Standard Application Fees
For most applicants, the following fees apply:
Up to 3 years: £719 per person
More than 3 years: £1,420 per person
These fees are standard for those applying for a Tier 2 visa for jobs that are not on the immigration salary list. This fee must be paid upfront when submitting your application.
Lower Application Fees for Certain Jobs
If your job is on the immigration salary list, the application fees are lower. These are typically jobs that the UK government considers to be in high demand or requiring particular skills. The reduced application fees are as follows:
Up to 3 years: £551 per person
More than 3 years: £1,084 per person
This reduction in fees is designed to make it easier for employers to fill roles in industries where there are skill shortages. To check if your job is on the immigration salary list, you can refer to the official UK government website.
Healthcare Surcharge (IHS)
One additional cost that you should factor into your budget is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). The IHS allows you to access healthcare services under the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) while you are living in the UK.
IHS cost: £1,035 per year for each person on the visa
This fee is charged annually for the duration of your visa. For example, if you are granted a Tier 2 visa for a 3-year period, you will need to pay £3,105 in IHS fees.
In some cases, the IHS fee may be reduced if your job is in certain sectors, such as healthcare or social care, where the government encourages workers to come to the UK.
Supporting Yourself: Financial Requirement
In addition to paying the application and healthcare surcharge fees, applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient funds to support themselves when they arrive in the UK.
Financial requirement
You must have at least £1,270 available in your bank account to show that you can support yourself.
However, if your employer is sponsoring you, they may be able to confirm that they will cover these costs. This means that you won’t need to show personal funds if your employer provides a valid sponsorship letter.
Additional Costs
Aside from the standard application fees, there are several other potential costs you may incur during the application process. These include:
Legal Fees: Many applicants choose to hire an immigration lawyer or consultant to help them with the application process. The legal fees can vary, but they typically range between £500 to £2,000 depending on the complexity of your case and the service provider.
Travel Expenses: You will need to pay for your travel expenses to attend any biometric appointments or to submit your passport for processing. These costs vary based on your location.
Biometric Information: As part of the Tier 2 visa application, you will be required to provide biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph. The cost for this service is typically £19.20 per applicant.
Payment Methods and Currencies
When submitting a Tier 2 visa application, you can make payments via various methods, including:
Credit/debit card
Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are generally accepted.
Bank transfer
Applicants outside the UK can make payments via bank transfer in their local currency.
Other payment methods
Some third-party payment services may be used for international applicants. However, it’s essential to verify the methods accepted on the official UK government website.
The visa fees can be paid in GBP (£), and if you are applying from abroad, the fees will be converted into your local currency at the time of payment.
Processing Times
The processing time for a Tier 2 visa application can vary depending on your country of residence and the complexity of your case. However, the general timeline for a Tier 2 visa application is as follows:
Standard processing
8 weeks from the date of submission
Priority processing
If you are applying from inside the UK, you may be able to pay for a priority service, which can expedite your visa application to 5 working days.
It’s important to plan your application well in advance of your intended arrival date in the UK, as delays can occur during peak application periods.
Updates and Changes
Visa fees and requirements are subject to change, so it is crucial to stay updated on any modifications to the application process. We recommend that you regularly check the official UK government website for the latest information on Tier 2 visa fees and regulations.
The UK government may also adjust visa fees depending on changes in immigration policy, economic conditions, or government priorities. By consulting the official resources, you can ensure that you have the most current and accurate information before submitting your application.
Conclusion
The cost of a Tier 2 visa for the UK is influenced by various factors, including the length of your stay, the type of job, and any additional requirements such as healthcare fees or legal assistance. Understanding these costs can help you plan your application and avoid unexpected expenses.
By considering the application fees, healthcare surcharge, and any additional costs, you can better manage the financial aspects of your visa application process. It’s also essential to stay informed about the latest updates to ensure that you comply with the most current requirements.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official UK government website or consult with an immigration expert.
