On 23 February 2022, the Home Office announced their decision to waive settlement visa fees for non-UK citizens who have served in the British Armed Forces. The policy is planned to come into effect in Spring.
Under the current rules, non-UK citizens who have served in the British Armed forces for a minimum of four years and meet the requirements of Immigration Rules can apply for indefinite leave to remain. They must pay the application fee of £2,389 per person, plus a £19.20 biometrics fee.
Under the new proposal, application fee will be waived if:
- the applicant has served for a minimum of six years and meet suitability requirements.
- the applicant has been discharged due to an illness or injury attributable to service irrespective of how long they have served and meet suitability requirements.
- non-UK veterans currently living in the UK and who have served at least six years but have not yet regularised their immigration status and meet suitability requirements.
- non-UK veterans currently living in the UK who are medically discharged from Service due to an injury or illness attributable to their Service irrespective of their length of their service who have not yet regularised their immigration status and meet suitability requirements.
The policy does not waive the fees for the applicant’s dependants, applications made on a priority basis or to naturalise as a British citizen.
The policy is clear that applicants applying for settlement after serving four years but less than six will have to pay the application fees.
If you believe you might be eligible for a fee waiver or want to know further about this policy, please get in touch with our friendly and experienced immigration team.