How Much Does A UK Work Permit Cost?

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:

Fees are subject to change annually. For a complete list of updated costs across all visa categories, see UK Visa Fees 2025.

• Skilled Worker Visa (up to 3 years): £819 (applying from outside the UK) / £943 (from inside the UK) per applicant
• Skilled Worker Visa (more than 3 years): £1,618 (applying from outside the UK) / £1,865 (from inside the UK) per applicant
• Health and Care Worker Visa: £284 per applicant
• Temporary Worker Visa: £298 per applicant
• Graduate Visa: £937 per applicant

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:

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.

• £1,035 per year for adults
• £776 per year for children under 18

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:

This charge is payable directly by the employer and cannot be passed on to the employee under UK immigration law.

• Large employers: £1,000 per sponsored worker per year
• Small or charitable sponsors: £364 per sponsored worker per year

Additional Costs to Consider

Applicants may check upgrade availability through their nearest UK Visa Application Processing Centre.

• 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)

Immigration Salary List Discount

If your job is listed on the UK Immigration Salary List, your Skilled Worker Visa application fee may be reduced. For example:

Applicants under Immigration Salary List roles may also benefit from faster processing times in some cases.

• Up to 3 years: £628 per applicant
• More than 3 years: £1,235 per applicant

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 Immigration Salary 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