If you’re a Romanian citizen planning to travel to the United Kingdom, understanding the visa application process and associated costs is crucial. The UK offers various visa categories, each with its own set of requirements and fees. This topic provides an overview of the UK visa application fees for Romanian nationals as of 2025, helping you navigate the process with ease.
Understanding UK Visa Categories
Before delving into the costs, it’s essential to identify the type of visa you require. The UK offers several visa categories, including
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Visit Visa– for tourism, business, or family visits.
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Student Visa– for studying at a recognized institution.
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Work Visa– for employment purposes.
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Settlement Visa– for those seeking to live in the UK permanently.
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Transit Visa– for passing through the UK en route to another destination.
Each category has specific requirements and associated fees, which can vary based on the duration of stay and other factors.
Visa Application Fees for Romanian Citizens
As of April 9, 2025, the UK Home Office updated its visa application fees. For Romanian applicants, the fees are as follows
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Visit Visa (up to 6 months)£127
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Visit Visa (up to 2 years)£475
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Visit Visa (up to 5 years)£848
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Visit Visa (up to 10 years)£1,059
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Student Visa£524
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Work Visa (shortage occupation, less than 3 years)£590
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Work Visa (shortage occupation, more than 3 years)£1,160
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Settlement Visa£3,029
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Transit Visa (direct airside)£39
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Transit Visa (landside)£70
It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, and additional costs may apply depending on the specific circumstances of your application.
Additional Costs to Consider
Beyond the application fees, there are other potential costs associated with obtaining a UK visa
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Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)This is an additional fee that helps cover the cost of healthcare in the UK. As of 2025, the IHS is £1,035 per year for most applicants. However, students and Youth Mobility Scheme participants pay a discounted rate of £776 per year.
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Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)If your visa is valid for more than 6 months, you may need to pay for a BRP, which costs £19.
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Visa Application Centre (VAC) FeesSome applicants may need to use a VAC to submit their biometric information. For example, the VAC in Bucharest charges an additional £76.50 service fee.
These additional costs can add up, so it’s essential to factor them into your budget when planning your application.
Application Process for Romanian Citizens
Applying for a UK visa from Romania involves several steps
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Determine the Appropriate Visa CategoryBased on your purpose of travel, select the appropriate visa category.
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Complete the Online ApplicationVisit the official UK government website to fill out the visa application form.
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Pay the Application FeeSubmit the required fee online as part of your application.
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Schedule an AppointmentBook an appointment at the nearest Visa Application Centre to submit your biometric information.
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Attend the AppointmentProvide your biometric data and any additional documents as requested.
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Await a DecisionThe processing time can vary, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official UK government website or consult with a professional immigration advisor.
Understanding the costs and procedures associated with obtaining a UK visa is crucial for Romanian citizens planning to travel to the United Kingdom. By staying informed and preparing adequately, you can ensure a smooth application process. Remember to account for all potential fees and plan your application timeline accordingly to avoid any last-minute complications.