United Kingdom
United States
Asia Pacific
UKinbound reaction as visa costs rise
UKinbound has voiced its concern over upcoming visa fee hikes.
The UK’s Home Office is set to increase some visa fees for travellers, students and workers.
Companies will also face a big jump in costs to bring in skilled overseas workers.
This is set to rise more than 100%.
The new visa fees will begin on 10 April 2025.
The government says it will likely generate around £400m in revenue by 2029/30.
Joss Croft OBE, CEO, UKinbound responded: “It is deeply disappointing that the Chancellor has announced an increase in visa costs, which run counter to the government’s welcome ambition to increase international visitors to 50 million by 2030.”
“Inbound tourism has the potential to help deliver the government’s growth objectives but this decision flies in the face of that.”
“Our inbound tourism industry already battles with sky high costs and increasing visa fees further makes the UK even less competitive for international visitors.”
“We have already seen costs for ETAs increase by 60% and this is the third rise in visa costs in 18 months.”
“We urge the government to review all UK tourism costs and taxes as part of its planned Tourism Strategy,” Croft added.
TravelMole Editorial Team
Editor for TravelMole North America and Asia pacific regions. Ray is a highly experienced (15+ years) skilled journalist and editor predominantly in travel, hospitality and lifestyle working with a huge number of major market-leading brands. He has also cover in-depth news, interviews and features in general business, finance, tech and geopolitical issues for a select few major news outlets and publishers.
Exploring Brooklands Museum with Alex Patterson
Global Tourism Challenges and Upcoming Events: A Conversation with Don Welsh
Peebles Barbeque: A Legacy of Flavor and Tradition
Exploring Bok Tower Gardens with Erica Smith
Rue’s Living Water Boat Cruises: Exploring Winter Haven’s Chain of Lakes
Durango and Silverton Railroad: A Timeless Journey Through History and Scenic Beauty
Walt Leger on New Orleans’ Resilience and Major Events Ahead
Cindy Mackin Shares Estes Park’s Winter Thrills
Mark Jaronski of Explore Georgia on FIFA World Cup 2026
Connecting Small Businesses to Global Tourism Markets: Nate Huff of Tourism Exchange
North Carolina’s Resilience: Wit Tuttell on Recovery and Tourism
Kittipong Prapattong’s Plan for Thailand’s Tourism Growth: Taxes, Visas, and Campaigns
EU entry-exit system delayed again
Carnival Cruise Line hosts Prague getaway for Fun Ambassadors
Council moves to designate Forest of Dean a Biosphere
US tourism hit with UK, Germany travel warnings
Uganda Airlines launching London flights