The United Kingdom is weighing a proposal to eliminate visa fees for highly skilled professionals in a bid to strengthen economic growth, according to the Financial Times.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s newly formed “global talent task force” is exploring measures to attract top scientists, academics, and digital experts from around the world. The plan, currently under discussion at Number 10 and the Treasury, could see visa fees completely waived for individuals graduating from the world’s top five universities or those holding prestigious international awards.
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This initiative comes as the United States raises its H-1B visa fees to $100,000, sparking calls for Britain to adopt a more competitive and welcoming system. Advocates of the UK reforms argue that reducing costs could give Britain a strategic edge in luring elite professionals, particularly ahead of the November 26 Budget.
Currently, the UK’s Global Talent Visa costs £766 ($1,030) per applicant, with the same fee required for partners and dependents. Neither Downing Street nor the Treasury has issued an official comment on the proposal.
