The United Kingdom government has announced new financial requirements for individuals applying for student, tourist, and work visas in 2025.
These revisions, driven by rising living costs and inflation, aim to ensure that applicants can meet the financial demands of living in the UK. The changes will affect students, workers, tourists, and families planning to live in or visit the country in the coming year.
For students, the financial threshold for living expenses has been increased. Applicants intending to study in London must now demonstrate at least £1,400 per month for living costs, up from £1,334 in 2024.
Those studying outside London must show £1,100 per month, an increase from £1,023. These funds must cover a nine-month period and be accompanied by proof of the first year’s course fees. Evidence of these funds must be presented in a bank statement covering a consecutive 28-day period, no older than 31 days before the application date.
Visa fees have also been revised, with slight increases across various categories. The standard student visa fee for applicants outside the UK has risen from £490 to £510.
Similarly, the fee for a six-month visit visa has increased from £115 to £120. Long-term visit visas now cost more, with a two-year visa priced at £420, up from £400. Other services, such as priority visa processing, have seen significant price hikes, rising from £500 to £550.
For work visas, financial requirements will vary depending on the visa category. Skilled Worker Visa applicants must show £1,270 to support themselves unless their employer provides financial certification.
Global Talent Visa applicants are exempt from specific financial thresholds but must prove they can cover their initial living costs. Health and Care Worker Visa applicants will also remain exempt if their employer provides sponsorship.
Tourist visa applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover all trip-related expenses, including accommodation, transport, and daily living costs. For extended stays, visa officials are expected to impose stricter scrutiny on financial documentation.
Family visa applicants will face increased income requirements in 2025. Partners or spouses must now prove a combined annual income of at least £29,000. Additional costs include £3,800 per year for the first child and £2,400 for each subsequent child. Savings may also be used to meet these financial thresholds if applicants provide the necessary documentation.
Exceptions to this rule apply to those receiving specific disability or carer benefits. Certain applicants may still qualify if they have a British or Irish child living in the UK or if denying their application would violate human rights.
