Starting January 2025, the UK government will impose stricter financial criteria for international students and skilled workers. Students will be required to show proof of increased living expenses, while skilled workers will need to meet a specified minimum income level.
Planning to study or work in the United Kingdom? Be aware of upcoming changes to the financial visa requirements in 2025.
The UK government has revealed that international students and skilled workers will now need to demonstrate a higher amount of financial resources to cover their living expenses.
Here’s a comprehensive overview of the requirements for prospective students and skilled workers.
Updated Financial Criteria for UK Student Visas
Starting January 2, 2025, international students applying for UK study visas need to demonstrate greater financial reserves to cover living expenses:
- For courses in London: £1,483 per month (approximately ₹1.5 lakh)
- For courses outside London: £1,136 per month.
For a typical one-year master’s program:
- London: Proof of £13,347 (around ₹14 lakh) is required.
- Outside London: Students must show £10,224 for nine months of expenses.
Applicants must maintain the required funds in their account for at least 28 consecutive days before submitting their visa application.
Current Requirement Comparison:
- London: £1,334 per month.
- Outside London: £1,023 per month
Exemptions
These updated rules do not apply to:
Students already residing in the UK.
Revised Rules for Skilled Worker Visas
First-time applicants for a skilled worker visa must now adhere to new financial criteria:
- Income Requirement: An annual income of £38,700 to cover living and accommodation costs.
- Employer Sponsorship: Applicants must obtain sponsorship from a UK employer approved by the Home Office.
- Fund Holding Period: For unsponsored applications, the required funds must be maintained in the applicant’s account for a minimum of 28 days before applying.
Increased UK Visa Fees
UK visa application fees for 2025 have been revised to reflect inflation and enhanced services. These adjustments impact student, tourist, work, and family visas, as well as premium processing options. Below is a detailed overview:
For premium services, priority visas cost $550, while super-priority visas are $1,050.
Exemptions: Fee waivers will remain available for applicants with disabilities, careers, and professionals in certain sectors, including healthcare, the armed forces, and talent-based roles.
Understanding the 28-Day Rule
A key new regulation is the ’28-day rule,’ which mandates that applicants maintain the required funds in their bank account for at least 28 consecutive days without dropping below the specified amount.
Under the updated regulations:
- Funds Duration: Funds must be held in the applicant’s account for 28 consecutive days.
- Closing Balance: The closing balance must not be older than 30 days at the time of visa application submission.
- Financial Documentation: This rule applies to all financial documents, including bank statements or certified letters.
- Consequences: Failure to comply may result in visa rejection.
Tips for Prospective Applicants
Begin financial planning early to ensure you have sufficient reserves before your application date. Keep an eye on exchange rates, as currency fluctuations may affect the required funds. Verify that all bank statements comply with the 28-day rule.
Conclusion
Given these upcoming changes, future students and workers targeting the UK should start their financial planning immediately. Early preparation can facilitate a smoother visa application process and increase the likelihood of success.