HSMP and WP fees to rise in April 2005

[Chess]

HSMP and WP fees to rise in April 2005 - has anyone got any update on this and what the catual fees will be?

[John]

Chess, I don't think the new levels have been announced yet. I keep looking at the IND website and have yet to spot anything.

[John]

I have today again checked on the IND website. On this subject I can find nothing later than their Press Release last September. But that does give some guidance about the possible new levels :-

Consultation launched on immigration fee increases

For example :-

Highly Skilled Migrant Programme fees may rise from £150 to between £320 and £375

and

leave to remain fees for those who need to extend their stay in the UK, such as students and spouses, may rise from £250 for a premium service to between £430 and £495

In other words, substantial increases ..... but the exact new levels not yet announced, as far as I can see.

Don't shoot the messenger .... I am totally appalled by these proposals. Just to think, back in March 2002 when my wife and step-daughter needed their ILR visas, we just went without appointment to the Birmingham PEO ... no charge ... we were there about four hours .... but visas issued with no problem.

It would be oh-so-different now .... need to make an appointment ... and pay £250 .... but from April that will rise to somewhere between £430 and £495.

[Square]

Phew!!

I wonder whether these proposed increases are not a double-edged sword to help fund immigration as well as control the numbers!!

Square