What are the changes?
The online service replaces other application methods and, according to UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI), will benefit customers because:
- the application form is shorter
- the questions are more logically ordered and it takes as little as 15 minutes to complete
- logging in is easier, requiring just an email address and password
- the service integrates with the Immigration Health Surcharge website and so reduces the need to input data twice
- answers can be checked and modified online at any point prior to paying the health surcharge
- the service can be accessed on all computers, mobile and tablet devices
What does this mean?
If a Tier 4 application is in progress on the current UKVI Apply Online system, it must be completed, paid for (including the health surcharge) and submitted before midnight on 25 February 2016. After this date it will not be possible to access any partially completed forms.
If it is not possible to complete an application by this date, or an application needs to be restarted, the new service should be used.
The Home Office has advised that if customers wish to retain any information held on a UKVI account, including any previously submitted applications, they must access their account and save copies before midnight on 25 February 2016.
Changes to Fees
On 11 January 2016, the government also announced changes to the fees for visas, immigration and nationality applications for 2016 to 2017. In summary these changes are:
- 2% fee increase for visit, study and work visas
- 25% increase for settlement, residence and nationality fees in 2016
- 25% increase for same day processing of in-country applications: from £400 to £500
- 25% increase for priority postal processing for in-country applications: £300 to £375
- 25% increase for settlement fees. For a main applicant and every dependant applying for settlement, the fees will rise from £1,500 to £1,875 each. If same day processing is required, each applicant will now need to pay £2,375. The maximum level of fees proposed for this category is £3,250 each
- 25% increase for nationality fees. Each applicant will now need to pay £1,156, up from the current fee of £1,005
For further details see the proposed fee table on www.gov.uk.
For further information regarding immigration matters, please contact our Immigration Law Team or fill in the form below