How to Apply for a UK Visa as an Expat in 2025

Last updated on 19 April 2025

Visa Types, Application Process & Essential Tips for a Smooth Move

Relocating to the UK requires careful planning, especially with new immigration rules and increased visa fees in 2025. This guide breaks down the latest visa categories, updated costs, and step-by-step advice to help expats apply successfully.

UK Visa Types for Expats in 2025

Your visa depends on your reason for moving to the UK. Below are the most common options:

1. Skilled Worker Visa

For professionals with a job offer from a UK-licensed sponsor.

Fees (2025): £769 (up to 3 years), £1,519 (over 3 years)

Job must be on the Immigration Salary List

Can lead to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR) after 5 years

2. Health and Care Worker Visa

For NHS and social care professionals (e.g., nurses, carers, doctors).

Fees: £304 (up to 3 years), £590 (over 3 years)

Exempt from the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

Requires NHS or care sector sponsorship

3. Student Visa (Tier 4)

For full-time international students at UK institutions.

Fees: £490 (outside UK), £1,023 (in-country)

Proof of funds required (e.g., £1,334/month for London)

Part-time work allowed during term

4. Graduate Visa

For students who’ve completed a UK degree.

Fees: £822

Work up to 2 years (3 years for PhD grads)

Cannot extend — must switch to a work visa

5. Family Visa

For joining a UK-resident spouse, partner, or parent.

Fees: £1,846 (outside UK), £1,048 (in-country)

Income requirement: £29,000/year (rising to £38,700 by late 2025)

Valid for 2.5 years, renewable

Full Visa Fee List (2025)

UK Visa Application Process (2025 Edition)

1. Confirm Eligibility

Use the UK Visa Checker Tool

Meet income, language, and sponsorship criteria

You may need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before travel

2. Prepare Documents

Valid passport

Proof of financial means (bank statements, job offers, etc.)

Tuberculosis test (if from a listed country)

Certified English translations (if applicable)

3. Apply Online

Visit GOV.UK to:

Submit your application

Pay the visa fee and Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

IHS (2025): £1,035/year (adults), £776/year (children)

Book your biometric appointment

4. Attend a Biometric Appointment

At your local Visa Application Centre (VAC):

Submit fingerprints and photo

Provide supporting documents

Optional: Priority (5-day) or Super Priority (24-hour) service available for additional cost

5. Wait for a Decision

Typical processing times:

Outside UK: 3–8 weeks (standard), 5 days (priority), 24 hours (super priority)

In-country: Up to 8 weeks for extensions or status switches

Visa Processing Times

6. Collect Your BRP

If your stay exceeds 6 months, collect your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) within 10 days of arriving in the UK.

Top Tips for Success

Apply early to avoid delays and fee increases

Use officially licensed sponsors (check here)

Don’t overstay your visa — could lead to a 10-year re-entry ban

Funds must be held for at least 28 days before applying

For short visits, apply for an ETA if you're from a visa-exempt country

Final Checklist

Confirm visa type and eligibility

Check if ETA is needed before travel

Prepare and translate required documents

Apply at gov.uk

Pay visa and IHS fees

Book and attend biometrics appointment

Wait for decision and collect your BRP (if applicable)

For more tips on traveling, studying, or working in the UK, explore our blog.

The Little Firefly