The UK government has proposed changes to immigration and nationality fees, aiming to generate additional revenue while enhancing border security. These changes, introduced to Parliament on 16 January, will impact various immigration and nationality services.
The changes reflect the UK government’s dual priorities of enhancing border security and modernizing the immigration system. While the fee increases may impose additional costs on applicants, they are positioned as part of a broader strategy to make the UK’s immigration processes more efficient and secure.
The proposed fee changes will be debated in Parliament and require approval by both Houses. If passed, the new fees will be implemented by amending the Immigration and Nationality (Fees) Regulations 2018. The timeline for implementation will depend on Parliamentary schedules.
Key Changes to Fees
The proposed adjustments include increases to the maximum fees for several immigration and nationality products and services:
| Service | Proposed Fee |
| Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) | £16 for Non-EU visa-exempt nationals and £18 for EU nationals |
| Certificate of Sponsorship | £525 |
| Naturalization as a British Overseas Territories Citizen | £1,605 |
| Naturalisation as a British Overseas Territories Citizen | £1,070 |
These changes are anticipated to generate an additional £269 million annually, supporting the government’s broader plans to reform the immigration system.
Streamlining Immigration: The Role of ETAs
The introduction of Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) is a central feature of the government’s Plan for Change. The ETA system aims to:
- Deliver a more streamlined and digital immigration process.
- Ensure a quicker and more secure experience for millions of travelers passing through UK borders annually.
The UK’s adoption of ETAs aligns with similar border security measures implemented by countries like the United States and Australia.
Temporary Airside Transit Exemption
In response to feedback from the aviation industry, the government has introduced a temporary exemption for passengers transiting airside who do not pass through UK border control. This means:
- This exemption will primarily affect Heathrow and Manchester airports, the only UK airports offering airside transit facilities.
- The government will keep this exemption under review, assessing its impact over time.