Beginning April 2025, visa fee costs will increase for Indians headed to Australia, the EU, and the UK. Overall, these changes affect students, tourists, and workers. As a result, the hike— which reaches 13 percent— will strain the budgets of many Indian travelers.
Visa Fee Hike Across Categories
The UK government has revised visa fees across short-term, student, and work visa categories. For instance, the six-month visitor visa fee will now cost GBP 127, up from GBP 115. Similarly, two-year visas increase from GBP 432 to GBP 475.
In addition, five and ten-year visas also sees a steep rise. The five-year visa now costs GBP 848 from GBP 771. Meanwhile, the ten-year option hits GBP 1,059 from GBP 963.
On the other hand, student visa applicants must pay a visa fee of GBP 524, up from GBP 490. Likewise, child student visa applicants face the same charge. Additionally, short-term study visas (6–11 months) now cost GBP 214 from GBP 200.
Work visas are also costlier. A Skilled Worker visa (up to three years) now costs GBP 769, up from GBP 719. Moreover, Innovator Founder visas will cost GBP 1,274, rising from GBP 1,191.
Importantly, sponsorship fees have risen too. A Certificate of Sponsorship now costs GBP 525, more than double the previous GBP 239. Large companies now pay GBP 1,579 for sponsor licences. Meanwhile, small firms and charities pay GBP 574 from GBP 536.
Australia to Raise Visa Fee Costs
Meanwhile, Australia has also introduced changes impacting international students. From 2025, major universities will raise tuition fees for Indian students.
For instance, engineering degrees will cost thousands more, at AUD 56,480 per year. Correspondingly, these fee hikes reflect rising university operational costs.
In addition, higher living expenses and insurance requirements could make studying in Australia even costlier for Indians. Therefore, students must prepare well in advance.
EU’s ETIAS Adds Travel Cost
The European Union (EU) will launch its new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) by late 2026. Overall, this system targets travelers from visa-exempt countries, including India.
ETIAS applications will remain valid for three years. Additionally, the EU plans to roll out its automated Entry/Exit System (EES) earlier in October 2025.
This digital system replaces manual passport stamps with biometric scanning at borders. As a result, travel within the EU will become more streamlined, but also more expensive.
Increase in Visa Fee Budget
Indian students, workers, and tourists will now need to factor in these rising costs when planning international travel. In particular, higher visa fees could affect applications to popular destinations like the UK and Australia.
Similarly, new fees and digital systems in the EU may delay travel plans. Consequently, many Indians may reconsider travel timelines or opt for alternate countries.
Moreover, the combined financial impact of visa, tuition, and living expenses could deter middle-income families from pursuing overseas education.
Plan Ahead, Avoid Surprises
To avoid last-minute shocks, Indians planning to study or work abroad must budget carefully. Correspondingly, knowing updated visa costs is essential.
As such, always check official government websites before applying. Despite the fee hikes, international education and careers remain achievable with proper planning.
In short, early preparation is key to managing the rising cost of going abroad in 2025.
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