London: The British government is exploring plans to waive visa fees for highly skilled scientists, academics, and digital experts in a bid to attract global talent. Led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the initiative comes in response to the recent U.S. hike in H-1B visa fees to $100,000 (around Rs 88 lakh), which has raised concerns about the competitiveness of international talent migration.
A dedicated “Global Talent Task Force” is reviewing proposals to fully exempt visa fees for graduates from the world’s top five universities or recipients of prestigious awards, according to the Financial Times. Currently, the UK Global Talent visa costs £766 (approximately Rs 79,000) per applicant, with the same fee applicable to spouses and children, alongside an annual healthcare surcharge of £1,035.
The UK is weighing a bold plan to eliminate visa fees for top global talent, especially those from elite universities or with major international awards. The move, under discussion in Downing Street and the Treasury, aims to boost the British economy by attracting high-skilled… pic.twitter.com/dnvLbYQvRk
— India Today Global (@ITGGlobal) September 22, 2025
Experts say the move could significantly boost the UK’s economic growth and encourage innovation. With higher fees in the U.S., Britain aims to attract professionals from countries including India, offering a competitive alternative.
Introduced in 2020, the UK Global Talent visa allows individuals recognized in fields such as science, engineering, humanities, digital technology, arts, and culture to live and work in the UK. The proposed fee waivers could be a golden opportunity for Indian students, particularly from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, who previously considered the U.S., positioning the UK as a viable and attractive alternative.