Response to Home Office consultation on visa fees and charges

03 December 2013

Excellent international staff and students are indispensable for world-class universities and a thriving society, culture and economy. 

The Government must make sure that policy on visa fees facilitates the UK’s international competitiveness in higher education in order to maximise potential for growth. This will help to signal that the UK’s doors are fully open to genuine international students and staff.

Given the significant contribution which international students and staff make to the UK economy, the fee for a student visa and the cost of Tier 1 and 2 visas should be set at an internationally competitive level. This would help to ensure the UK remains globally competitive in attracting the brightest and best international talent.

It is imperative that where enhanced services for sponsors are offered, basic services are of a good enough standard that stakeholders are not forced into paying for premium services in order to operate.

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