17 Jan Potential Home Office Fee Changes in 2025
On 16 January, the Home Office announced plans to implement fee increases for selected immigration products and services at the earliest opportunity. These changes aim to “reduce reliance on taxpayer funding for the migration and borders system”. Additionally, adjustments have been made to how Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) rules apply to airside transit.
Key fee increases include:
- ETA fee rising to £16
- Certificate of Sponsorship (work routes) increasing to £525
- Naturalisation as a British citizen increasing to £1,605
- Various changes to nationality services
The UK government has recently reviewed Home Office fees and presented proposed changes to Parliament. These changes are now subject to debate and approval by both Houses.
If approved, the new fee structure will be implemented through amendments to the Immigration and Nationality (Fees) Regulations 2018, with changes taking effect as soon as Parliamentary schedules permit.
The government regularly reviews fees to ensure the migration and border system operates efficiently and sustainably. Given the significant funding challenges faced by the system, these adjustments aim to reduce reliance on taxpayer contributions.
Temporary exemption for airside transit passengers from ETA requirement
In response to feedback from the aviation industry, the government has introduced a temporary exemption for passengers transiting airside, meaning those who do not pass through UK border control, from the requirement to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).
This change, effective from Thursday, 16 January 2025, primarily impacts Heathrow and Manchester Airports, the only UK airports currently offering airside transit facilities. The government has confirmed that the exemption will be kept under review.
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