UK Visa Fees 2025 For Pakistanis
If you’re applying for a UK visa from Pakistan in 2025, the first thing you’ll notice is that fees have increased after September’s update. With the pound rising against the rupee, the total amount in PKR is much higher than most applicants expect. That’s why checking the latest fee chart before applying can save you stress and prevent last-minute financial shocks.
The UK visa fee is always paid in GBP, but Pakistani applicants end up paying more because of conversion rates, bank charges, and currency fluctuations. Let’s break down the official fees, hidden costs, and a step-by-step guide so you know exactly how much you need to budget.
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Updated UK Visa Fees 2025 (GBP & PKR Conversion)
Here’s the updated fee chart for Pakistani applicants in 2025.
Visa Type | Fee (GBP) | Approx. PKR (₨) | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
UK Visit Visa (6 months) | £127 | ₨ 50,000 – 60,000 | Short stay, most common |
UK Visit Visa (2 years) | £475 | ₨ 190,000 – 200,000 | Frequent travelers |
UK Visit Visa (5 years) | £848 | ₨ 340,000 – 360,000 | Long-term option |
UK Visit Visa (10 years) | £1,059 | ₨ 420,000 – 440,000 | For regular UK visitors |
UK Student Visa | £524 | ₨ 210,000 – 230,000 | For higher education |
Short-Term Study (6–11 months) | £214 | ₨ 86,000 – 95,000 | For diploma / language courses |
Spouse / Settlement Visa | £1,800+ | ₨ 650,000 – 700,000+ | Most expensive category |
Note: PKR values are estimates. Pakistani banks like HBL, Meezan, or Standard Chartered often add extra charges, so always keep a buffer of ₨ 10,000–20,000.
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Visa Types Explained – Which One Do You Need?
- Visit Visa (6 months) – Best for tourism, family visits, or short trips.
- Long-Term Visit Visa (2, 5, or 10 years) – For frequent travelers, each visit limited to 6 months.
- Student Visa – Required if you are studying full-time at a UK university or college.
- Short-Term Study Visa – For short diploma or language courses up to 11 months.
- Work Visa (Skilled Worker / Health & Care Worker) – For applicants with a confirmed job offer in the UK.
- Spouse / Settlement Visa – For those joining partners or dependents already in the UK.
- Transit Visa – If you’re only passing through the UK on your way to another country.
Step-by-Step: How to Pay UK Visa Fee from Pakistan
- Choose your visa type – Decide whether you need a visit, student, work, or spouse visa.
- Check latest fees on [GOV.UK] – The official website always has updated charges.
- Convert GBP to PKR – Keep in mind rupee depreciation and bank exchange rates.
- Pay online in GBP – Use a debit or credit card that supports international payments.
- Book biometric appointment – At UK Visa Application Centres in Islamabad, Lahore, or Karachi.
- Prepare for extra charges – Such as courier, translation, biometric, or priority service.
- Submit documents and wait – Standard processing takes a few weeks; priority costs extra.
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Extra Costs Beyond Visa Fees
Applying for a UK visa isn’t just about the main fee. Pakistani applicants often face extra expenses like:
- Biometric and application centre charges
- Document translation (if not in English)
- Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) – compulsory for student, spouse, and work visas; covers NHS healthcare in the UK
- Priority & super-priority services – for faster processing, but at a higher cost
Real Problems Pakistani Applicants Face (And How to Handle Them)
- Currency fluctuation – The pound may rise suddenly; always keep ₨ 20,000 buffer in your account.
- Wrong visa category – Some applicants mistakenly apply for a visit visa when they actually need a study visa. Double-check before paying.
- Weak financial documents – A poor bank statement or lack of income proof often leads to rejection. Show ties like job letters, property documents, or family commitments.
- Hidden costs – Courier, translations, and priority services can add up. Make a checklist of all possible expenses.
- Fake agents – Avoid shortcuts or unauthorized consultants. Always apply directly via [GOV.UK].
Also Read: 8171 New Registration September 2025 For New Beneficiaries
UK Visa Fee Changes in April 2025 – What’s New?
From 9 April 2025, the UK Home Office increased fees across several categories:
- Visit Visa (6 months) is now £127 (previously £115).
- Student Visa increased to £524.
- Short-Term Study Visa is now £214.
Comparison Chart:
Visa Type | 2024 Fee | 2025 Fee |
---|---|---|
Visit Visa (6 months) | £115 | £127 |
Student Visa | £490 | £524 |
Short-Term Study Visa | £200 | £214 |
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FAQs About UK Visa Fees for Pakistanis
Q1: If my visa is refused, will I get my fee back?
No, UK visa fees are non-refundable.
Q2: Do I pay in GBP or PKR?
You pay in GBP online; your bank deducts the PKR equivalent.
Q3: What is Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)?
It’s a compulsory payment for student, spouse, and work visas, covering NHS healthcare in the UK.
Q4: Can I speed up my UK visa application?
Yes, but priority and super-priority services cost extra in Pakistan.
Q5: Do fees change often?
Yes, the Home Office revises them regularly. The last update was April 2025.
Pro Tips for Pakistani Applicants
- Always check the latest official fees before applying.
- Keep extra money in your account for conversion changes.
- Use banks that offer lower GBP conversion rates.
- Apply early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Keep strong and honest supporting documents.
Final Words
Applying for a UK visa from Pakistan in 2025 requires careful financial planning. A simple visit visa now costs around ₨ 50,000–60,000, while settlement visas can exceed ₨ 650,000. With the rupee’s constant fluctuations, having a buffer and checking official [GOV.UK] updates is the smartest way to avoid surprises.
By understanding the real costs, preparing documents carefully, and budgeting properly, your UK visa process becomes smoother and far less stressful.