Brad Leo
UK Fiance Visa Fees 2024: What You Need to Know
If you are planning to apply for a UK Fiance Visa, it's essential to be aware of the associated costs. The UK Fiance Visa allows non-UK nationals to enter the UK with the intent to marry or enter a civil partnership with their UK-based partner. However, this visa comes with various fees. Here's a breakdown of the costs you need to consider when applying for a fiance visa uk cost in 2024.
1. UK Fiance Visa Application Fee
The standard application fee for the UK Fiance Visa is £1,538. This fee is non-refundable, even if your visa is denied, so it's crucial to ensure that your application is complete and meets all requirements before submission.
2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
Although you are not required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) when applying for the Fiance Visa itself (since the visa is valid for only six months), you'll need to pay it when switching to a spouse visa after marriage. The IHS is an additional cost to cover your access to the National Health Service (NHS) while in the UK. For spouse visas, this surcharge currently costs £624 per year, and you will pay this upfront for 2.5 years when applying to extend or switch your visa after marriage.
3. Priority Processing Fee (Optional)
If you need a faster decision on your UK Fiance Visa application, you can opt for priority processing, which generally shortens the decision time to around five working days. The fee for priority service is £573. However, this is optional, and the standard processing time is typically between 8 to 12 weeks.
4. English Language Test Fees
As part of your application, you may need to meet the English language requirement. If so, you’ll have to take an approved English language test, such as IELTS. The cost for this test varies but is generally around £150 to £200, depending on the test center and country.
5. Tuberculosis (TB) Test Fee
Applicants from certain countries are required to take a tuberculosis (TB) test as part of the application process. The cost of the test varies by country but is typically around £65 to £110. You must take the test at a clinic approved by UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).
6. Document Translation Fees
If any of your documents are not in English or Welsh, you must provide certified translations. The cost of translating documents varies, depending on the length and complexity of the documents, but this can range from £20 to £100 per document.
7. Legal Advice and Assistance (Optional)
While it's not mandatory to hire a lawyer or immigration consultant, many applicants choose to seek professional help to ensure their application is complete and correct. Fees for legal services can vary significantly, ranging from £500 to £2,500 or more, depending on the level of service and complexity of the case.
Additional Costs to Consider
Biometric Enrollment Fee: As part of your application, you will need to attend a biometric appointment to provide your fingerprints and a photograph. The biometric enrollment fee is £19.20.
Visa Document Scanning (if required): Some visa application centers may charge a small fee for scanning and uploading your documents, which is typically around £75.
Total Estimated Costs for a UK Fiance Visa Application
Here is a rough estimate of the total costs involved in applying for a UK Fiance Visa:
Visa Application Fee: £1,538
Priority Processing (Optional): £573
English Language Test (if required): £150–£200
TB Test (if required): £65–£110
Biometric Fee: £19.20
Document Translation (if required): £20–£100 per document
Legal Assistance (Optional): £500–£2,500
Conclusion
The UK Fiance Visa application process can be costly, especially when you factor in optional services like priority processing and legal advice. It's crucial to budget for these fees to avoid any surprises during the application process. By understanding the costs involved and planning accordingly, you’ll be better prepared to navigate the uk fiance visa fees application and begin your new life with your partner in the UK.