The UK business visa cost structure can be confusing. Here’s how to know what you’ll pay.Â
2 April 2025
Applying for a UK business visa is a crucial step for professionals and entrepreneurs aiming to engage in business activities in the UK. The process can be complex, with several visa types and recent fee changes to consider.
This guide provides up-to-date information on the main business visa options, their costs, and application requirements as of April 2025.
The UK Standard Visitor Visa is designed for short-term visits for business activities such as meetings, conferences, or contract negotiations. Applicants must:
Intend to leave the UK after their visit
Not undertake paid work, work placements, or run a business in the UK
Provide evidence of their business activities (e.g., meeting invitations)
Demonstrate sufficient funds for their stay without recourse to public funds4
2025 Fees
| Duration | Fee (from 9 April 2025) |
|---|---|
| Up to 6 months | £127 |
| Up to 2 years | £475 |
| Up to 5 years | £848 |
| Up to 10 years | £1,059 |
Each visit must not exceed six months, even with a long-term visa.
Application Process
Complete the online application on the UK government website
Submit supporting documents (passport, financial evidence, business itinerary)
Pay the application fee online
Provide biometric information at a visa application centre
For those seeking to establish a business, transfer employees, or work in the UK for longer periods, several other visa routes are available. These have different eligibility criteria and fee structures.
The Global Business Mobility visa category supports overseas businesses expanding into the UK market. It includes five main visa types, each with specific requirements:
| Visa Type | Fee (from 9 April 2025) | Key Requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Senior or Specialist Worker | £769 (≤3 yrs), £1,519 (>3 yrs) | Sponsorship, Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS), Salary threshold |
| Graduate Trainee | £319 | Sponsorship, CoS, Graduate training programme |
| UK Expansion Worker | £319 | Sponsorship, CoS, Business plan |
| Secondment Worker | £319 | Sponsorship, CoS, Contract value |
| Service Supplier | £319 | Sponsorship, CoS, Trade agreement |
Additional Costs:
Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year (per applicant)
Certificate of Sponsorship: £525 per worker (from April 2025)
Entrepreneurs can establish a UK business and sponsor themselves as a skilled worker. Key costs include:
Sponsor Licence Application: £574 (small business/charity), £1,579 (medium/large business)
Skilled Worker Visa: £769 (≤3 yrs), £1,519 (>3 yrs)
Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year
Immigration Skills Charge: £364–£1,000 for the first year, depending on business size6
This route is for graduates from top global universities. Requirements include a qualifying degree, English proficiency, and proof of funds.
Application Fee: £880 (from April 2025)
Qualification Check (Ecctis): £210–£252
Immigration Health Surcharge: £1,035 per year
Maintenance Funds: Minimum £1,270 (if not exempt)
The Global Talent Visa is for leaders or emerging leaders in academia, research, arts, or digital technology who want to work in the UK without a job offer or employer sponsorship. Applicants must be endorsed by an approved UK body or hold a qualifying prestigious award.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Endorsement Application | £524 |
| Visa Application | £192 (after endorsement) or £716 (with prize) |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | £1,035/year (adults), £776/year (children) |
| Dependent Visa Fee | £716 per person |
Overview and Purpose
The Innovator Founder Visa is for entrepreneurs starting a new, innovative business in the UK. Applicants must secure endorsement from a Home Office-approved body confirming their business idea is innovative, viable, and scalable.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Endorsement Fee | ~£1,000 |
| Visa Application | £1,274 (outside UK), £1,590 (inside UK) |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | £1,035/year (adults), £776/year (children) |
| Contact Point Meetings | ~£500 per meeting (minimum two) |
| Dependent Visa Fee | Same as main applicant |
| Visa Type | Main Application Fee (from April 2025) |
|---|---|
| Business Visitor (6 months) | £127 |
| Business Visitor (2 years) | £475 |
| Business Visitor (5 years) | £848 |
| Business Visitor (10 years) | £1,059 |
| Senior/Specialist Worker (≤3 yrs) | £769 |
| Senior/Specialist Worker (>3 yrs) | £1,519 |
| Graduate Trainee | £319 |
| UK Expansion Worker | £319 |
| Service Supplier/Secondment | £319 |
| High Potential Individual | £880 |
| Global Talent Visa | £716-£1240 |
| Innovator Founder Visa | £1,274 |
| Sponsor Licence (small/charity) | £574 |
| Sponsor Licence (medium/large) | £1,579 |
| Certificate of Sponsorship | £525 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | £1,035/year |
Most UK visa fees increased by 5–10% on 9 April 2025.
The Certificate of Sponsorship fee for most routes rose sharply to £525 per worker.
The Tier 1 Entrepreneur, Investor, and Sole Representative visas are closed to new applicants, replaced by the above routes.
All applicants must provide clear evidence of eligibility and may be required to attend an interview.
Review eligibility for your chosen visa route
Gather all required documents
Apply online via the UK government website
Pay the relevant fees
Visa requirements and fees are subject to change. Always check the latest guidance on the official UK government website or consult a qualified immigration adviser before applying.
This guide reflects the most current costs and requirements for UK business visas as of April 2025, ensuring accuracy and relevance for business travellers and entrepreneurs.
Yes, but each dependent pays the same visa application and health surcharge fees as the main applicant.
Yes. Most routes require the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). Some visas also require endorsement and, for Innovator Founder, contact point meeting fees.
No fixed minimum, but you must show you can support yourself and your business.
£525 per worker (from April 2025).
Yes, but you’ll pay further application and IHS fees until you qualify for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
Always consult the official UK government website for up-to-date costs.
Visa costs can change. Always check the latest information before applying.
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