UK raises financial requirements for tourists, students, work visa applicants in 2025

The United Kingdom (UK) government has updated the financial requirements for student, tourist, and work visa applicants for 2025, reflecting the rising cost of living.

Students will now need to show £1,400 per month for living expenses in London (up from £1,334) and £1,100 outside London (up from £1,023) for a nine-month period, in addition to proof of their first year’s course fees.

The cost of visa applications has also increased, with the standard student visa fee rising from £490 to £510, and the tourist visa fee increasing from £115 to £120.

Work visa financial requirements vary by category. Applicants for the Skilled Worker Visa must demonstrate £1,270 in available funds unless their employer provides sponsorship.

Applicants for the Global Talent Visa are not subject to specific financial thresholds, but they must prove they can cover initial living costs.

Those applying for the Health and Care Worker Visa remain exempt from these requirements if sponsored by an employer.

Tourist visa applicants are required to show sufficient funds to cover the entire trip.

Family visa applicants must now show a combined annual income of at least £29,000, with additional funds required for children, £3,800 for the first child and £2,400 for each subsequent child.

Applicants can also use savings to meet these financial requirements.