Are you worried about PSW visa UK fees? The Post-Study Work (PSW) Visa allows international students who have completed a degree in the UK to stay in the country and work at any skill level for up to two years (or three years for PhD graduates). One of the most important aspects of the PSW visa UK application is the visa fee. In this guide, we break down the costs and provide you with the information you need to successfully apply for the PSW visa UK.
If you need help with your PSW visa UK application or have questions about the visa fees, contact Primus Solicitors Manchester today:
📍 First Floor, 402 Palatine Road, Northenden, Manchester M22 4FZ
📞 0161 222 5860
📧 info@ansarhabib.com
🕘 Monday–Friday: 09:30 AM – 05:30 PM
What is the PSW Visa UK?
The PSW visa UK, also known as the Graduate Visa, allows international students who have completed an eligible course at a UK higher education provider to stay and work in the UK for a set period after their studies. The visa provides the opportunity to gain valuable work experience in the UK job market.
Two-Year PSW Visa: Available for those who have completed a bachelor’s degree, postgraduate degree, or a professional course.
Three-Year PSW Visa: Available for PhD graduates.
The PSW visa UK does not require sponsorship from an employer, making it a flexible option for graduates looking to work in the UK.
What Are the Requirements for a PSW Dependent Visa?
If you’re considering adding family members to your Graduate Route visa, it’s important to understand the eligibility criteria for dependents. The UK Home Office has specific requirements for who can join you under the Post-Study Work (PSW) route.
Who Can Apply as a Dependent?
Eligible dependents typically include:
- Your husband, wife, civil partner, or unmarried partner (if you’ve lived together for at least two years)
- Children under 18 years old
Key Eligibility Conditions
To be successful, your dependent must meet the following:
- Relationship requirement: Partners must be in a genuine, ongoing relationship with you and able to provide evidence (like joint utility bills, bank statements, or a shared tenancy agreement) showing you’ve lived together for the required two years.
- Age criteria: Children must be under 18 at the time of application.
- Application timing: Your dependents must apply while your Graduate Route visa is valid.
Financial and Suitability Requirements
Dependents need to show they are financially supported—this could involve demonstrating access to adequate funds (for example, through joint accounts or bank statements), as specified by UKVI. Additionally, they must not have a serious criminal record or a history of violating UK immigration laws.
Special Note for Children Born in the UK
If you have a child while holding a PSW visa, your child can remain in the UK for up to three months without a visa. However, a visa application is necessary if you wish to travel or re-enter the country, and this must be done from within the UK.
Taking these requirements into account early can help you avoid delays or complications as you plan for your family’s life in the UK.
How Much Does the PSW Visa UK Cost?
The PSW visa UK fees consist of the following components:
1. Application Fee
The PSW visa application fee for applicants applying from within the UK is:
£880 for applicants applying for the two-year visa.
£1,240 for applicants applying for the three-year visa.
2. Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is an additional cost that all visa applicants must pay to access healthcare services while in the UK. The IHS is mandatory and must be paid in full when applying for the PSW visa UK.
£624 per year for most visa types, including the PSW visa UK.
For the two-year visa, the total IHS will be £1,248.
For the three-year visa, the total IHS will be £1,872.
This payment allows you to access NHS services during your stay in the UK. Be aware that the IHS is a non-refundable fee, and you must pay it upfront when submitting your application.
Total Cost of the PSW Visa UK
Based on the information above, here’s a breakdown of the total costs for the PSW visa UK:
Two-Year PSW Visa:
Application Fee: £880
IHS: £1,248
Total: £2,128
Three-Year PSW Visa:
Application Fee: £1,240
IHS: £1,872
Total: £3,112
These are the typical costs for applying for the PSW visa UK. Please note that additional costs may apply, such as biometric appointment fees and any premium services you choose to use.
Estimating Your Total PSW Visa UK Application Cost
Wondering how much you’ll actually need to set aside for your application, especially if you plan to bring your partner or children with you? You don’t have to guess. The UK government provides a convenient online Graduate Visa fee calculator to help you work out the exact amount you’ll pay based on your circumstances.
Here’s how you can estimate your total costs:
- Include All Applicants: Select whether you’re applying individually, with a partner, or with dependents under 18.
- Account for Each Dependent: Fees and surcharges (such as the application fee and IHS) apply per applicant, so be sure to include everyone who will be on your visa application.
- Automatic Calculation: The calculator will tally the correct fees for you, ensuring you know your combined total before you start your application.
By using this official tool, you can avoid any surprises and budget accurately for each person included in your PSW visa application.
Example: Family PSW Visa UK Cost Breakdown
To help you understand the process, let’s look at an example of a family applying for the PSW visa together—a main applicant, their partner, and a child born recently in the UK.
Here’s how the costs are typically divided for each member:
Applicant Application Fee IHS (per year/total) Biometric Fee Estimated Total Main Applicant £880 £1,035/year (£2,070 for two years) £60 £3,010 Dependent Partner £880 £1,035/year (£2,070 for two years) £60 £3,010 Child Dependent £880 £776/year (£1,552 for two years) £60 £2,492 A few key points to note:
- The application fee remains the same for all applicants, regardless of age.
- Biometric fees apply per individual unless you choose to use the UK Immigration ID Check app, which can save your family the biometric charge.
- For children, the IHS is slightly lower than for adult applicants.
- All applications must be made from within the UK.
If you take advantage of the ID Check app, you could reduce your costs by avoiding biometric appointment fees for each applicant. This is a useful option for families looking to save on their total application expenses.
How to Pay the PSW Visa UK Fees
The PSW visa UK fees can be paid online during the application process. Here’s how to make the payment:
1. Online Payment
You can pay the application fee and IHS online through the official UK government website. The website will guide you through the payment process and allow you to pay by credit or debit card.
2. Payment Methods
The payment methods available for paying the PSW visa UK fees include:
Credit or Debit Card (Visa, MasterCard, etc.)
UK-based Bank Transfer (if applicable)
Make sure you have sufficient funds in your account to cover the total cost of your application.
3. Receipt
Once you make the payment, you will receive a confirmation receipt. This receipt will be required when submitting your application.
If you need help with your PSW visa UK fees application or have questions about the visa fees, contact Primus Solicitors Manchester today:
What’s Included in the PSW Visa UK Fees?
The PSW visa UK fees cover the cost of your application processing and access to healthcare services via the Immigration Health Surcharge. However, there are additional costs to consider when applying for the PSW visa UK.
1. Biometric Appointment Fee
You will also need to attend a biometric appointment, where your fingerprints and photographs will be taken as part of your application. The biometric fee is £19.20 and can be paid online as part of the application process.
2. Additional Services
Some applicants may choose to use premium services for faster processing times. These services include:
Super Priority Visa Service: An expedited service for urgent visa processing.
Priority Visa Service: A faster service for quicker decision-making.
These services come at an additional cost, which will be added to the overall PSW visa UK fees.
Biometric Appointment vs. Immigration ID Check App
When applying for the PSW visa (Graduate Route), you have two main options for verifying your identity: attending a biometric appointment or using the Immigration ID Check app. Each method has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to understand the distinctions before proceeding.
- Biometric Appointment:
Applicants who choose the traditional route will need to book an in-person appointment at a designated center, such as a UKVCAS location. During this appointment, your fingerprints and photograph will be taken, and your documents may need to be scanned. There is a standard biometric fee (currently £19.20), though applicants might incur extra costs if document upload services or premium appointment times are selected. Keep in mind that this option may involve travel and scheduling considerations, especially if suitable centers are not nearby. - Immigration ID Check App:
Many applicants—especially those applying under the Graduate Route or switching to the skilled worker visa—can skip the in-person appointment by verifying their identity with the UK Immigration ID Check app. This mobile app allows you to upload a digital photo and scan your identity document at home. By completing the process digitally, you can avoid the additional biometric fee and the need to travel to a center, saving both time and money.
In summary:
If you’re eligible to use the Immigration ID Check app, it is generally the more convenient and cost-effective choice. The app streamlines identity verification and often results in faster processing times. However, if you are not eligible for the app or prefer in-person support, the biometric appointment remains a reliable alternative.
If you need help with your PSW visa UK fees application or have questions about the visa fees, contact Primus Solicitors Manchester today:
How to Prepare for the PSW Visa UK Application
When applying for the PSW visa UK, it’s essential to prepare in advance to ensure that your application is successful. Here’s how to get ready:
1. Ensure Eligibility
You must meet the eligibility criteria for the PSW visa UK, including completing an eligible course at a UK higher education provider. Make sure you’ve met the necessary academic requirements before applying.
2. Complete the Application Form
The PSW visa application form must be completed accurately online. You will need to provide personal details, academic qualifications, and any other relevant information.
3. Gather Required Documents
You will need to provide the following documents for your PSW visa UK application:
Passport or travel document
Proof of your completed degree (e.g., degree certificate, transcript)
Proof of your identity (e.g., birth certificate)
Evidence of your finances (if required)
4. Attend the Biometric Appointment
After submitting your application, you will be required to attend a biometric appointment to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
If you need help with your PSW visa UK application or have questions about the visa fees, contact Primus Solicitors Manchester today:
📍 First Floor, 402 Palatine Road, Northenden, Manchester M22 4FZ
📞 0161 222 5860
📧 info@ansarhabib.com
🕘 Monday–Friday: 09:30 AM – 05:30 PM
How Primus Solicitors Manchester Can Help
At Primus Solicitors Manchester, we specialize in helping clients with their PSW visa UK applications. Our expert team can assist you in every step of the process, from checking your eligibility to submitting your application and ensuring you meet all the requirements. If you need help with your PSW visa UK fees application or have questions about the visa fees, contact Primus Solicitors Manchester today:
Our Services Include:
Eligibility assessment: We assess your eligibility for the PSW visa UK based on your course and academic qualifications.
Visa application assistance: Our team assists you in completing the PSW visa application and provides guidance on required documentation.
Document preparation: We ensure your supporting documents meet the Home Office requirements.
Ongoing support: We guide you through the process and provide support in case of any complications.
If you’re ready to apply for the PSW visa UK or need help navigating the application process, book a consultation with Primus Solicitors Manchester today.
FAQs About the PSW Visa UK Fees
1. What is the cost of the PSW visa UK?
The PSW visa UK costs £880 for the two-year visa or £1,240 for the three-year visa. You will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge of £624 per year.
2. Do I need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for the PSW visa UK?
Yes, the IHS is mandatory for all visa applicants, including those applying for the PSW visa UK. The IHS helps cover healthcare costs during your stay in the UK.
3. How can I pay the PSW visa UK fees?
The PSW visa UK fees can be paid online via the official UK government website using a credit or debit card.
4. Do I need to pay the biometric fee for the PSW visa UK?
Yes, you will need to pay a £19.20 biometric fee when attending your biometric appointment.
5. What happens if I don’t pay the PSW visa UK fees?
Failure to pay the PSW visa UK fees will result in your application being rejected. Ensure you make the payment before submitting your application.
Legal Disclaimer
This article provides general information about the PSW visa UK fees and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized assistance with your PSW visa UK application, please contact Primus Solicitors Manchester.
Contact Primus Solicitors Manchester
If you need help with your PSW visa UK fees application or have questions about the visa fees, contact Primus Solicitors Manchester today:
📍 First Floor, 402 Palatine Road, Northenden, Manchester M22 4FZ
📞 0161 222 5860
📧 info@ansarhabib.com
🕘 Monday–Friday: 09:30 AM – 05:30 PM
