UK Plans to Eliminate Visa Fees to Attract Global Talent Amid H-1B Fee Increase in US, ETTravelWorld

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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is considering proposals to scrap visa fees for leading scientists, academics and digital experts as part of efforts to drive growth, the Financial Times reported. The move comes as the United States imposed a $100,000 fee on new H-1B visas, a program heavily used by American technology companies.

According to the report, Starmer’s “Global Talent Task Force” is discussing options that could include waiving costs entirely for people who have attended the world’s top five universities or won prestigious awards. “We are talking about the kind of people who have gone to the top five universities in the world or won prestigious awards,” one official told the Financial Times. “We are introducing the idea of ​​reducing costs to zero.”

The UK Global Talent Visa currently costs £766 per applicant, with partners and children paying the same fee. In addition, applicants typically face an annual health charge of £1,035 per person. The visa route, introduced in 2020, targets recognized leaders in science, engineering, humanities, medicine, digital technology, arts and culture.

Officials involved in the discussions said Donald Trump’s recent decision on visa fees in the US gave impetus to those pushing for reforms in Britain. “Trump’s decision has put wind into the sails of those who want to reform Britain’s evolving visa regime to boost growth ahead of the November 26 budget,” one person told the Financial Times.

The taskforce is chaired by Varun Chandra, Starmer’s business adviser, and Science Minister Lord Patrick Vallance. While the Home Office has not yet formally considered the proposals, officials have confirmed that visa pathways are still under review. One official said: “This is not about weakening our resolve to reduce net migration, it is about bringing the best and brightest into Britain. There is unity in government on this.”

Chancellor Rachel Reeves is also reviewing the tax system to ensure it supports the UK’s ability to attract the best global talent. Its recent changes to the non-domestic tax system have raised concerns about wealthy individuals leaving Britain, although early data suggests the impact has been limited.

In the year to June 2023, the number of global talent visas granted rose by 76 per cent to 3,901. University leaders welcomed the government’s efforts but urged more action. Jamie Arrowsmith, Director of International Universities UK, said: “Ultimately, to attract global talent, we need to be able to offer funding, autonomy and make the transition as seamless as possible.”

A Home Office spokesperson said: “Our global talent pathways attract and retain highly skilled talent, particularly in science, research and technology, to maintain the UK’s position as a leading international hub for emerging talent and innovation.”

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