The hidden costs of the visa fee increase for the UK’s hospitality industry
By Michael Clitheroe, general manager of Balmer Lawn Hotel and Spa

In July 2023, the government announced a visa fee increase across both work and travel visas. These came into effect at the beginning of October, which included a 15% increase to most work and visitor fees, a 35% increase to the student visa fee for people applying from overseas, and at least a 20% increase to fees for settlement and British citizenship.