We have received recent updates from one of our trusted immigration specialist partners. Please take note of the following points to ensure that you are well-informed about recent changes: 

UK Visa Fees Increase (Effective 04 October 2023) 

The UK government has recently announced an increase in visa application fees.
Notable changes include: 

• Child Student/Student (Overseas application) to Increase from £363 to £490 
• Priority Service to Increase from £250 to £500 
• Visitor visa (visa nationals) to Increase from £100 to £115 

• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (‘CAS’) issuance (Sponsorship) to Increase from £21 to £25 

Important Note: The Immigration Health Surcharge (‘IHS’) is expected to rise later in 2023, but it is not included in the current fee increases. 

 To avoid higher fees, we recommend submitting visa applications before 4 October 2023. 

BRP Card Deliveries – Royal Mail 

As of Monday 18th September 2023, the Home Office has shifted to using Royal Mail for BRP card deliveries. A signature is no longer required. In case of delivery issues, redelivery can be arranged, or the BRP card can be collected from the local Royal Mail delivery office. Ensure your address details with UKVI are accurate since changes after BRP production are not possible. 

The introduction of Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) a new requirement for non-visa nationals traveling to the UK. Please review the following key points: 

  ETA will be introduced on a phased basis starting from 25 October 2023. 

•  Applicable to Non-Visa Nationals: Non-visa nationals, including EU nationals, US citizens, Canadians, will be required to register and obtain confirmation through ETA before traveling to the UK. 

• Nationals of Qatar: ETA required if traveling on or after 15 November 2023. Applications can be filed from 25 October 2023. 

• Nationals of Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Oman, Saudi Arabia, or the United Arab Emirates: ETA required if traveling on or after 22 February 2024. Applications can be filed from 1 February 2024. Exceptions apply for individuals with a British or Irish passport, permission to live, work or study in the UK, and a valid UK visa (see below for details). 

Application Process:  

• Use the UK ETA app or an online process through the GOV.UK webpage. 
• Cost: ETA will cost £10 per applicant. 
•  Confirmation: UKVI will send an email confirmation if the application is approved and will electronically link the ETA to the passport used for the application. 

•  Validity: ETA will be valid for 2 years. 

 Exceptions 

• Individuals with a British or Irish passport. 
• Those with permission to live, work, or study in the UK. 
• Individuals holding a valid UK visa. 

Please note that certain restrictions apply, and it is essential to review the full details provided below. 

E-Gates for Child Students – Reminder 

• Children from the age of 10 can now use passport E-gates at various UK airports and rail ports. However, those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult when entering via an e-gate.  

Note that using e-gates will not provide a date stamp in the passport. Sponsors are advised to secure copies of boarding passes or flight tickets to confirm the date of entry for Child Students using e-gates. 

We trust that this information is valuable for your immigration planning. If you have any questions or if you need more assistance, contact us.  Please be reminded that Study Links is prohibited from assisting with visa applications directly, however we can refer you to one of our trusted partners on request. 

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