UK Visa Requirements Philippines: 2024 Fees for FilipinosThis guide provides Filipinos with a detailed overview of the application fees and entry terms for various UK visa categories. UK visa fee Philippines 2024 for a tourist visa to England or London is US$145, known as the 6-month visit visa fee. For students and spouses, the UK visa price Philippines are US$619 and US$2,332, respectively. An additional US$632 is charged for priority service across visit, student, and work visas. The average processing time for these visas, following biometric submission, is typically about three weeks. Filipinos need a minimum GBP3,000 show money for UK tourist visa from Philippines.
Table of Contents
1. Overview of UK Visa for Filipinos 2024
Filipinos looking to visit, work, or study in the UK must apply for the appropriate visa. The requirements vary depending on the type of visa application.
How much is UK Visa Fee in Philippines?
The fee for a UK visa is determined by its type, with tourist visas set at US$145, student visas at US$619, and spouse visas costing US$2,332.
How Long is UK Visa Processing in Philippines?
As of 2024, the usual processing duration for non-settlement visas, such as tourist, study, and work visas, is approximately 3 weeks.
Choosing the priority service can expedite this to 5 working days, with an additional fee of US$632.
Spouse Settlement Visa Processing Time for Filipinos
For spouse, partner, or family applications, the typical processing time for settlement visas post-biometrics is within a 12-week period.
For these visa categories, a priority service is offered, reducing processing time to 6 weeks at an additional cost of US$632.
The super-priority service fee is US$1,263 for next-working-day processing.
How much does it cost to travel to UK from Philippines?
To travel from Philippines to the UK, you may need a minimum of $1,750 for a 7-15 day trip per person. Key costs include:
- Visa Fee: Starts at $129 for a short-term visa.
- Priority Service Fee: Optional, around $322.
- Flight Cost: Varies, often between $700-$1,200.
- Living Expenses: Budget for accommodation, food, and travel within the UK.
- Travel Insurance: Costs vary based on coverage.
For a solo traveler, the estimated costs range from $1,750 to $5,225, which includes all the above expenses in addition to daily living costs. Couples can expect to pay between $3,500 and $10,500, with the only shared cost being accommodation. For a family of four, estimated expenses can range from $7,000 to $21,000, factoring in individual flight and visa fees and potentially shared accommodation.
Duration of Stay for Filipinos in the UK
- Visitor Visas: Allow a stay of up to 180 days per visit.
- Spouse, Student, and Work Visas: The duration aligns with the visa validity. Extensions are possible by meeting Leave to Remain (LTR) criteria.
- Path to Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR): Visa categories like Skilled Worker and Innovator can lead to ILR, potentially leading to British citizenship.
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2. Tourist Visa UK from Philippines 2024
Can Filipino Travel to UK Without Visa?
Filipinos are required to apply for a visa to travel to the United Kingdom. The only exception to this rule is for those holding dual citizenship with visa-exempt countries such as the USA, Australia, New Zealand, or the EU Member States.
UK Visitor Visa for Filipinos
The standard visitor visa is a versatile option that allows Filipinos to engage in tourism, family visits, business-related activities, and even short-term studies. Before applying, it’s important to be familiar with the eligibility criteria.
The UK immigration authorities examine multiple aspects such as the clarity of the visit purpose, financial stability, accommodation plans, and compelling evidence of intended departure back to Philippines.
For the year ending September 2022, out of 31,421 visa applications from Filipinos, 23,594 were granted, while 4,623 were rejected. The success and refusal rates stood at 82.80% and 16.22%, respectively.
UK Visa Fee Philippines for Visitors
In 2024, the UK visa application fees from Philippines are categorized as follows: US$145 for a 6-month visa, US$505 for a 2-year visa, US$974 for a 5-year visa, and US$1,217 for a 10-year visa. All these c-visit visa UK categories limit your stay to a maximum of 180 days per visit.
Filipino applicants looking at the visitor visa processing timeframe can expect about three weeks. They can also choose faster processing with a one-week priority service at US$632 or a next working day super priority service at US$1,263.
Tourist Visa to UK from Philippines
Applying for a UK tourist visa entails a multi-step process that starts with filling out the online application form. Payment of the UK tourist visa fee Philippines (US$145) and submission of biometric data at a visa application center are the subsequent steps. Filipino nationals must also provide certain supporting documents.
- Proof of intent to return to Philippines, backed by employment contracts or educational enrollments
- Bank statements showing sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
- A detailed travel itinerary and proof of accommodation, such as hotel reservations
Show Money for UK Tourist Visa from Philippines
Applicants are required to show sufficient funds, usually in the range of GBP 3,000 to 5,000, to sufficiently cover travel, accommodation, and daily expenses for their duration in the UK.
The necessary funds rise with each additional traveler. For instance, a solo traveler may need over GBP 3,000 show money for UK tourist visa from Philippines in their bank account for a one-week journey estimated to cost around GBP 1,800.
Can My Filipina Girlfriend Visit Me in the UK?
Your Filipina girlfriend would require a Standard UK Visitor Visa. The process includes an online application, visa fee payment, and an appointment for biometric data and document submission.
London Visa Requirements for Filipino Citizens
When your visit is solely to London, you can apply for a standard visitor visa. This process entails completing an online application form, undergoing document verification, and providing biometric information.
Filipino couples need approximately $4,000 for one-week trip to London. Therefore, they need around $6,000 (350,000 PHP) show money for UK tourist visa from Philippines.
Other UK Visitor Visas from Philippines
| Visa Type for Filipino Citizens | UK Visa Fee Philippines 2024 |
|---|---|
| Marriage Visitor Visa: For Filipino citizens to get married or registering civil partnership in the UK. Duration: Up to 180 days. | US$145 |
| Private Medical Treatment Visa: For Filipinos to get private medical treatment in the UK lasting 6-11 months. Note: Attendants must apply separately. | US$253 |
| Visiting Academics: For Filipino academic professionals engaging in research or educational exchanges for up to 12 months. | US$253 |
| Permitted Paid Engagement (PPE): For Filipino professionals to perform short-term paid tasks like lecturing or assessing, available for up to 30 days. | US$145 |
| Parent of Child Student Visa: For Filipino parents of children in fee-paying day schools in the UK. Duration: 12 months. | US$805 |
| Transit Visas for Filipino Citizens: For brief stops in the UK while transiting to another country. Includes Airside Transit and Visitor in Transit visas. | Airside Transit: US$44 Visitor in Transit: US$81 |
3. Study in UK from Philippines 2024
The UK Student Visa permits Filipinos to pursue a range of educational opportunities in the UK, from higher education to Student Union roles.
UK Student Visa Requirements Philippines
For a successful UK Student Visa application, Filipinos must satisfy specific criteria. These include a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) from a UK institution and proof of English language proficiency, commonly through an IELTS exam. Financial solvency for tuition and living costs is also mandatory.
The rules and requirements for different visas, like the Child Student Visa and Short-term (English Language) Visa, vary and are critical to adhere to.
In the year ending September 2022, 595 Filipinos applied for UK student visas. With 558 approvals and 26 rejections, the success rate stood at 94.26%.
UK Student Visa Fees for Filipinos
The usual fee for the UK Student Visa is US$619, with a standard processing duration of about 3 weeks. A quicker processing option is available for an extra US$632. Additionally, students must cover the Immigration Health Charge (IHS) at £624 each year.
Short-term English Language Visa
The short-term study visa is designed for Filipinos studying English in the UK for 6-11 months, costing US$253. A 6-month course costs US$145.
Work Rights for Filipino Students
- Those enrolled in degree-level courses can engage in part-time work, up to 20 hours per week, during academic terms and switch to full-time during holidays.
- For sub-degree level courses, the limit is 10 hours per week.
- Dependents of degree-level students can work; however, those of sub-degree students cannot.
Post-Study Work Opportunities
Filipino graduates can avail a 2-year post-study work visa. PhD holders can get a 3-year visa.
4. Family Visas for Filipinos 2024
The family route is for those Filipinos who can apply for a UK visa because of their relationship to a person settled in the UK or a British citizen. This includes spouse settlement visa, adult dependent relative, parent of a British Child visa etc.
To qualify, applicants should establish a genuine relationship with a UK local, financial dependability, English fluency, and also settle the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS).
For the year ending September 2022, 1,659 Filipinos applied for UK family settlement visas; 980 were granted, and 132 were rejected, resulting in an 86.96% success rate and an 11.71% refusal rate.
Requirements for UK Spouse Visa from Philippines
- Application Requirements: Filipino applicants are required to comply with the Appendix FM of the UK Immigration Rules. Essential UK Spouse Visa criteria include establishing a genuine relationship, demonstrating financial stability, securing adequate housing, and proving English language proficiency.
- Visa Duration and Further Steps: Initially, the visa is granted for 33 months to Filipinos, and it can be extended for a further 30 months. Eligibility for ILR under the partner route is possible after 5 years, subject to continuous compliance with the visa terms. There is also a special 10-year route to settlement for those who may not meet certain criteria like financial stability or English proficiency.
- Visa Fee for Filipinos: The standard fee for spouse visa applications from the Philippines is US$2,332. An additional US$632 is charged for expedited processing within 6 weeks, bringing the total to US$2,964.
Other Family Visas:
| Visa Category | UK Visa Fee Philippines 2024 |
|---|---|
| Fiancé(e) Visa For Filipinos intending to marry or form a civil partnership in the UK. Valid for 6 months. | US$2,332 |
| Parent of a British Child Visa For Filipinos who are the sole caregivers of a British child. | US$2,332 |
| Adult Dependent Relative Visa For Filipinos requiring long-term care from a UK-based relative. | US$4,106 |
| Returning Residents Visa For Filipinos who have previously been settled in the UK and wish to return. | US$805 |
5. UK Work Visa for Filipino 2024
The primary route for Filipinos seeking UK employment is through the Skilled Worker Visa. Other options include visas like Innovator, Startup, Global Business Mobility, and Health and Care Worker.
How to Get Working Visa in UK from Philippines?
To secure a UK work visa, Filipinos need to meet varying requirements based on the type of work visa they are applying for.
In the year ending September 2022, a total of 26,463 Filipinos applied for a UK work visa. Of these, 24,857 were granted, and 1,097 were rejected, resulting in success and refusal rates of 95.22% and 4.20%, respectively.
Skilled Worker Visa UK for Filipinos
Filipinos can work in the UK under the Skilled Worker Visa. This visa is for those sponsored by a licensed Home Office sponsor for specific skilled roles. It offers a path to permanent UK settlement. The cost of the UK work visa for Filipino in 2024 stands at US$908 for up to three years and US$1,794 for longer durations.
The Shortage Occupation (Skilled Worker) visa fees for Filipinos is US$696 for up to three years and US$1,370 for durations longer than three years.
Health and Care Work Visa UK from Philippines
This visa is specifically designed for qualified doctors, nurses, or allied health professionals from the Philippines who are sponsored by a licensed Home Office sponsor. It also provides a route to permanent UK settlement. The UK Work Visa for Filipino cost for this category in 2024 is US$359 for up to three years and US$696 for more extended periods.
Global Business Mobility Visa to UK for Filipinos
Here is a summary of the UK work visas available for Filipino citizens under the Global Business Mobility category, complete with their 2024 fees.
| Visa Category | UK Visa Fee Philippines 2024 |
|---|---|
| Senior or Specialist Worker Visa Ideal for senior managers or specialists from Philippines transferring to a UK branch. | – Up to three years US$908 – Longer than three years US$1,794 |
| Graduate Trainee Visa For Filipino individuals in graduate training programs leading to specialist roles in the UK. | US$377 |
| UK Expansion Worker Visa For Filipino specialists or senior personnel looking to expand a business into the UK. | US$377 |
| Service Supplier Visa For Filipino professionals providing services under UK trade agreements. | US$377 |
| Secondment Worker Visa Specifically for Filipinos seconded to the UK for significant contracts or investments. | US$377 |
Quick Guide to Other Work and Business Visas:
Below is a brief overview of various UK visa categories along with their associated fees for Filipinos looking to work or do business in the UK.
| Visa Category | UK Visa Fee Philippines 2024 |
|---|---|
| Start-Up Visa For Filipinos starting an innovative business in the UK. | US$550 |
| Innovator Visa For Filipinos with innovative, viable, and scalable businesses. Requirements include an endorsement, £50,000 investment, and B2 IELTS level. | US$1,505 |
| Innovator Founder Visa (Introduced 2023) Ideal for Filipino entrepreneurs. Simplified process with endorsement approval, could lead to UK family residency. | – Endorsement US$1,263 – Application US$1,505 |
| Investor Visa For high-value Filipinos investing in the UK. | US$2,380 |
| High Potential Individual (HPI) Visa For Filipino graduates from top-50 global universities seeking employment in the UK. | US$1,039 |
| Scale-Up Visa For Filipinos with a job offer from an authorised UK scale-up company. Leads to potential UK settlement after 5 years. | US$1,039 |
| Global Talent Visa For Filipinos who are leaders or potential leaders in academia, research, arts, or digital technology. | – Approval Letter for initial application from Philippines: US$662 – Filipino Main Applicant with Approval Letter: US$243 – Main Applicant without Approval Letter and for Dependants: US$905 |
| T2 Minister of Religion Visa For Filipinos intending to undertake preaching and pastoral work. | US$908 |
| International Sportsperson Visa For elite Filipino sportspersons or coaches contributing to UK sports. Fee varies based on Certificate of Sponsorship duration. | – Up to 12 months CoS US$377 – More than 12 months CoS US$908 |
| T5 (Temporary Worker) Visa For Filipinos in various sectors, such as seasonal, religious, or creative workers. | US$377 |
6. How to Apply for UK Visa from Philippines?
A comprehensive guide tailored for Filipinos outlining the steps to apply for a UK visa. Follow this guide from determining your visa type to getting ready for your UK trip. Note: The estimated cost is based on a UK visitor visa, and priority service could shorten the process to 15 working days from 30.
Total Time: 30 days
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Determine the Visa Type
Firstly, ascertain the specific visa category that aligns with your reason for traveling from the Philippines to the UK.
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Create an Online Account
Go to the official UK visa and immigration website and create an account on the UK Visas and Immigration platform.
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Fill Out the Application Form
Filipino applicants are encouraged to thoroughly complete the relevant online application form, ensuring all details are consistent with their supporting documents.
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Pay the Application Fee
Filipino applicants, after completing the UK visa application form, will be led by the UKVI online system to the secure payment gateway to process their application fee.
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Assemble Your Supporting Documents
Depending on the type of UK visa application from Philippines, collect key documents such as your Philippine passport, proof of financial status, and UK accommodation details.
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Schedule a VAC Appointment in the Philippines
Filipinos are not qualified to use the Immigration App for identity verification. As a result, it’s vital to book an appointment at a UK Visa Application Centre (UKVAC) in the Philippines.
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Attend the VAC Appointment
Reach the nearest UKVAC, prepared with all supporting documents, and conduct the biometric verification in accordance with your appointment’s instructions.
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Await Visa Decision
Following your submission, your UK visa application is processed. Decisions are normally made within a 3-week timeframe, or in 5 working days with priority service.
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Passport Collection or Delivery
You have the option of collecting your passport and visa from the VAC, or you can use a courier for delivery. If your visitor visa is not granted, options to reapply or conduct a Judicial Review are available. Note that appeals are permissible only in cases based on human rights grounds. For common rejection reasons, such as suspicious intentions and unexplained significant bank transactions, get details at UK visa refusal reasons.
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Prepare for Your UK Journey
With your visa secured, plan your UK travel and familiarize yourself with the terms of your visa.
Estimated Cost: 145 USD
Supply:
- Application form
- Valid Philippine Passport
- Recent passport-sized photos
- Invitation letter (if applicable)
- Payment for visa fee in USD
- Proof of UK accommodation
Tools:
- Internet access
- Philippine Passport
- Financial documents
Materials: Photocopies of documents, Hard copy of printed online application form, Postal envelope (if mailing documents)
VFS Global Services Philippines Private Inc.
| City | Address of VFS Global Services Centre |
|---|---|
| Manila | Mezzanine Floor Unit M01, Ecoplaza Building, 2305 Chino Roces Avenue Extension Makati City, Metro Manila 1231 |
| Cebu | Unit 905, 9th Floor Kepwealth Center, Samar Loop cor. Cardinal Rosales Avenue, Cebu Business Park, Cebu City 6000, Philippines. |
For further details please refer to find a visa application centre.
7. VFS Document Checklist UK Visa
Primary Documentation
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for the duration of your UK stay.
- Application Form: Completed on the UK Visas and Immigration portal.
- Proof of Accommodation: Details of your UK stay.
- Financial Proof: Evidence of financial capability.
- Travel Itinerary: Outline of travel plans.
- Proof of Ties to Philippines: To show intent to return.
- English Language Proficiency: When required, generally via an accredited test.
Important: Listed here are the key primary documents necessary for all UK visa types. Ensure to consult the specific instructions for your visa category for any additional requirements.
Documentation Based on Visa Type
- Work Visas: Includes employment offer and Certificate of Sponsorship.
- Study Visas: Requires Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS).
- Family Visas: Requires relationship proofs.
- Tourist Visas: Additional trip details may be necessary.
For UK-Based Sponsors
Submitting sponsor documents from the UK can strengthen your visa application, notably for visa types like family or work visas, which necessitate sponsorship.
- Letter of Invitation
- Sponsor’s Immigration Status
- Financial Documents
- Accommodation Proof
- Relationship Evidence
Remember: Sponsor documents are supplementary; meeting the primary visa criteria is crucial.
8. FAQs: UK Visa Requirements Philippines 2024
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How to Pay for UK Visa Fee in the Philippines?
Applicants must pay the online application fee in US Dollars. Payments can be made via debit or credit card after completing the application form.
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When is the UK Visa Approved for Filipinos?
Approval or refusal of UK visas for Filipinos is communicated upon passport collection.
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How to Track UK Visa Application in the Philippines?
Tracking a UK visa application after biometrics is currently not available for Filipinos. For status inquiries, contact UKVI via phone or email.
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Is Work Allowed on a UK Visiting Visa for Filipinos?
Work is not permitted for Filipinos on a UK visitor visa. Breaching these conditions could lead to visa cancellation and a re-entry ban.
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Can a Filipino Work in the UK?
Yes, Filipinos can work in the UK provided they obtain the appropriate work visa, such as a Skilled Worker Visa, Innovator Founder Visa, or Health and Care Worker Visa, among others.
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How Much Does It Cost to Bring Someone from the Philippines?
The cost of a visa can differ greatly based on factors like visa category, sponsorship necessities, and additional charges. Expenses may span from several hundred to a few thousand US dollars.
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How Much Does a London Visa Cost?
The cost of a visa to London specifically is not separated from a general UK visa. Fees range depending on the type of visa, from around US$145 for a tourist visa to US$2,380 for an Investor Visa.
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How Long Is the COS Letter UK Processing Time?
The Certificate of Sponsorship (COS) is an essential part of the UK work visa application but is not the visa itself. The processing time for a COS letter varies and usually depends on the sponsoring company. It can range from a few days to a couple of weeks. It is advised to check with your prospective employer for specific timelines.
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Can My Aunt Sponsor Me for UK?
Generally, aunts are not recognized as immediate family members for the purpose of UK sponsorship. However, in exceptional cases that involve compelling and compassionate circumstances, sponsorship by an aunt may be considered. Such sponsorship is more commonly seen for visitor visas for tourism and sightseeing rather than for long-term settlement. Each case is evaluated individually, and it is advisable to consult with immigration experts for specific advice.