Universities UK has criticised the way in which visa fees for international students have been increased without consultation with the higher education sector.

Responding to the Home Office announcement on visa charges for 2009-10, Diana Warwick, Chief Executive of Universities UK, said: “Universities UK is disappointed that the Home Office has decided to increase visa fees for international students without any consultation or discussion with the higher education sector.

“The increase in fees will come at the same time as a number of other changes in the UK’s immigration system and the UK Government is in serious danger of sending out a message that it does not welcome international students.

“International students contribute far more to the UK academically, culturally and financially than they use in terms of public resources. We are very privileged as a country to welcome international students and have the opportunity to equip them with skills and qualifications for life.

“Universities UK and the wider higher education sector has sought to engage constructively with the Home Office on immigration issues and it is regrettable that a proper consultation has not taken place on visa fees. We recognise the pressures on the Home Office to deliver a modern and efficient immigration system and we are committed to working with them to deliver such a system.

“However, the Home Office do not appear to recognise the highly competitive environment in which our institutions are working to attract highly talented students to the UK and an increase in immigration fees will work against our activities.”

Following the Home office announcement yesterday (12 February), initial visas for students applying overseas will increase from £99 to £145. Visa fees for extensions via postal applications in the UK will increase from £295 to £357 and in-person applications from £500 to £565 - with additional costs for dependents.

Notes

1. Information on the fee increases can be found at: http://www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk/sitecontent/newsarticles/proposedfeesin200910

2. Universities UK is the major representative body and membership organisation for the higher education sector. It represents the UK's universities and some higher education colleges. Its 133 members http://www.UniversitiesUK.ac.uk/members/ are the executive heads of these institutions. Universities UK works closely with policy makers and key education stakeholders to advance the interests of universities and to spread good practice throughout the higher education sector. Founded in 1918 and formerly known as the Committee for Vice-Chancellors and Principals (CVCP), Universities UK celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2008.