If you’re planning to work in the UK under the Skilled Worker visa (formerly known as the Tier 2 visa), it’s essential to understand the associated Tier 2 visa cost. These fees can vary based on several factors, including your job’s salary, the length of your stay, and whether your employer is on the immigration salary list. Understanding the Tier 2 visa cost is key to planning your move to the UK and ensuring you meet all the necessary requirements.
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💰 Tier 2 Visa Cost – Application Fees
The Tier 2 visa cost depends on the following criteria:
1. Job Duration
Up to 3 years: £769
More than 3 years: £1,519
The Tier 2 visa cost varies depending on whether your stay is short-term or long-term.
2. Employer’s Status
Job on the Immigration Salary List:
Up to 3 years: £590
More than 3 years: £1,160
Health and Care Worker Visa:
Up to 3 years: £284
More than 3 years: £551
These costs apply to both main applicants and their dependents. The exact visa cost you’ll pay will be determined during your application process.
🏥 Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
The Tier 2 visa cost also includes the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which is a mandatory fee that allows you to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay.
Standard Rate: £1,035 per year
Discounted Rate: £776 per year for students, their dependents, and those on a Youth Mobility Scheme visa
For a visa duration of more than 6 months, you’ll need to pay the full annual IHS amount upfront, which adds to your overall visa cost.
💷 Financial Requirement for the Tier 2 Visa Cost
In addition to the Tier 2 visa cost, you must demonstrate that you can support yourself in the UK. You will need to have at least £1,270 in your bank account, which must have been in your account for at least 28 consecutive days before applying. Alternatively, if your employer can certify your maintenance, this requirement may be waived. This financial requirement is an additional factor to consider in your overall Tier 2 visa cost.
🧾 Example Breakdown of the Tier 2 Visa Cost
Here’s a breakdown of the Tier 2 visa cost for both the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge:
| Category | Cost (2-Year Stay) | Cost (3-Year Stay) |
|---|---|---|
| Application Fee | £769 | £1,519 |
| Immigration Health Surcharge | £2,070 | £3,105 |
| Total | £2,839 | £4,624 |
This is the typical Tier 2 visa cost for applicants. Please note that these costs may vary depending on individual circumstances.
📌 Additional Considerations for the Tier 2 Visa Cost
Dependants: Each dependant (partner and children) will need to pay the visa cost, including both the application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge.
Biometric Appointment Fee: A fee of £19.20 applies for biometric data collection, which is part of the overall Tier 2 visa cost.
Employer Sponsorship: Employers must pay an additional Immigration Skills Charge, which varies based on the size of the organization and the duration of the visa. This charge is another factor in your visa cost.
🧭 How Primus Solicitors Manchester Can Assist with Your Tier 2 Visa Cost
At Primus Solicitors Manchester, we specialize in providing expert legal advice on UK immigration matters, including the visa cost. Our services include:
Eligibility Assessments: We’ll assess your eligibility for the Skilled Worker visa (formerly Tier 2 visa) and ensure that you meet the required criteria.
Application Guidance: We assist with the preparation and submission of your visa application to ensure compliance with the visa cost and requirements.
Appeals and Reviews: If your visa application is rejected, we can provide support in challenging the decision.
If you need help with your Tier 2 visa or have questions about the visa cost, book a consultation with our experienced team today.
📍 First Floor, 402 Palatine Road, Northenden, Manchester M22 4FZ
📞 0161 222 5860
📧 info@ansarhabib.com
🕘 Monday–Friday: 09:30 AM – 05:30 PM
FAQs About the Tier 2 Visa Cost
1. What is the Tier 2 visa cost for a Skilled Worker visa?
The Tier 2 visa cost depends on the length of your visa and your job’s classification. For a two-year stay, the application fee is £769 and for a three-year stay, it is £1,519. Additionally, the Immigration Health Surcharge is £2,070 for a two-year visa and £3,105 for a three-year visa.
2. Do I need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for the Tier 2 visa?
Yes, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a mandatory fee for all applicants. The IHS for most applicants is £1,035 per year. For a two-year Tier 2 visa, the total IHS is £2,070, and for a three-year visa, it is £3,105.
3. Are dependants required to pay the same Tier 2 visa cost?
Yes, dependants (partner and children) are required to pay the same application fee and Immigration Health Surcharge as the primary applicant. This means the total cost for each dependant will be the same as for the main applicant.
4. What are the biometric fees for the Tier 2 visa?
A biometric fee of £19.20 applies for biometric data collection as part of the Tier 2 visa application process.
5. Is the Tier 2 visa cost refundable if my application is rejected?
No, the Tier 2 visa cost is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected. The Immigration Health Surcharge is also non-refundable. It’s important to ensure that all documents are correctly submitted to avoid delays or rejections.
6. Can I apply for a Tier 2 visa if my salary is below the required threshold?
To apply for a Tier 2 visa, your salary must meet the minimum required threshold. If you do not meet this threshold, your application will likely be rejected. For most roles, the salary must be £26,200, or £20,960 for new entrants, with exceptions for certain occupations.
7. How do I pay the Tier 2 visa cost?
The Tier 2 visa cost can be paid online during the application process via the official UK government website. You can use a credit or debit card to make the payment. Be sure to have sufficient funds in your account to cover both the application fee and the Immigration Health Surcharge.
8. Can my employer pay for the Tier 2 visa cost?
In some cases, your employer may agree to pay part or all of the Tier 2 visa cost. However, the Immigration Health Surcharge and biometric fees must still be paid by the applicant.
9. How long does it take to process the Tier 2 visa application?
The processing time for the Tier 2 visa typically takes around 8 weeks from the date of application. However, this can vary depending on the complexity of your case and whether you choose to use priority services.
10. What happens if I can’t afford the Tier 2 visa cost?
If you cannot afford the Tier 2 visa cost, you may need to reconsider your application or seek financial support from an employer or sponsor. It’s important to meet the required financial thresholds for your application to be processed.
📍 Contact Primus Solicitors Manchester
📍 First Floor, 402 Palatine Road, Northenden, Manchester M22 4FZ
📞 0161 222 5860
📧 info@ansarhabib.com
🕘 Monday–Friday: 09:30 AM – 05:30 PM
