Starting January 2025, the UK will implement significant changes to its visa requirements for students and skilled workers. These changes are part of the government’s strategy to address economic and immigration challenges, particularly the impact on the housing market and the economy.
Increased Financial Requirements
One of the most notable changes is the increase in financial thresholds for visa applicants. Students and skilled workers will need to demonstrate higher financial reserves to qualify for visas.
For Students:
- Students applying for a UK study visa will need to show evidence of sufficient funds to cover living expenses. The new requirements are:
- £1,483 per month for courses in London.
- £1,136 per month for courses outside London.
- For a one-year master’s programme, this translates to £13,347 for London and £10,224 for other regions, covering nine months of expenses.
- These funds must be held in the applicant’s account for at least 28 consecutive days before submitting the visa application.
For Skilled Workers:
- First-time skilled worker visa applicants must demonstrate an income of at least £38,700 to cover living costs and accommodation.
- Applicants must also have sponsorship from a UK employer approved by the Home Office. If sponsorship is not available, the required funds must be held for at least 28 days before applying.
Increased Visa Fees
Visa application fees will see minor increases across various categories, including tourist, family, spouse, child, and student visas. However, exemptions will remain for applicants with disabilities, carers, and those working in specific sectors such as healthcare, the armed forces, and certain talent-based roles.
New Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)
Starting January 8, 2025, visitors from countries that currently do not require a visa for short stays in the UK will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This includes travellers from the United States, Canada, Australia, and other non-European nations. The ETA will cost £10 and will be valid for multiple entries over a two-year period or until the traveller’s passport expires.
From April 2, 2025, EU nationals will also be required to obtain an ETA before entering the UK. This move aims to streamline the entry process and enhance security by confirming traveller eligibility before they leave their country of origin.
Impact on Travellers and Workers
These changes are expected to have a significant impact on international students, skilled workers, and travellers. The increased financial requirements may pose challenges for some applicants, particularly those from countries with lower income levels. However, the UK government believes these measures are necessary to manage the effects of immigration on the housing market and the economy.
For travellers, the introduction of the ETA system will add an extra step to the travel process, but it is designed to make border crossings more efficient and secure. The ETA will allow for smoother entry into the UK by reducing time and confusion at border crossings.
