The UK visa system is large, and the right route depends on why you are coming: to work, to study, to join family, or to invest your skills. This guide gives you the map. It explains the main routes, how they lead to permanent settlement, and the costs that apply across almost all of them, then links to a detailed walkthrough for each major visa.
Immigration rules change often, and several big changes are moving through in 2026. Everything here is based on GOV.UK and the Home Office, and we flag where a rule is confirmed but not yet in force. It is general information, not immigration advice. For a decision about your own case, check GOV.UK or a regulated adviser.
The main UK visa routes
Working in the UK
The Skilled Worker visa is the main work route. It needs a job offer from a licensed sponsor, a role at graduate (RQF 6) skill level, and a salary that meets the threshold. High-achievers may qualify for the Global Talent visa, which does not need a sponsor.
Studying in the UK
The Student visa lets you study at a licensed institution. You need an offer, proof of funds, and in most cases an approved English test, and there are strict rules on funds and working.
Family and other routes
Family visas allow you to join a partner, spouse or family member who is a British citizen or settled in the UK. There are also youth mobility, business mobility and specialist routes.
The path to settlement
Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR), also called settlement, is permanent status. As of 2026 the standard qualifying period is still five years of lawful residence on an eligible route, plus the Life in the UK test, an English requirement and a good-character check. Note an important change: the government has confirmed that the standard qualifying period will rise from five years to ten years under a new earned settlement model, expected to take effect in autumn 2026.
Read the full walkthrough: Indefinite Leave to Remain explained.
The costs that apply to almost everyone
Two costs run across most visa routes: the visa application fee, and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which gives you access to the NHS. The IHS is £1,035 per adult per year on most routes and £776 per year for students and children, paid upfront for the whole visa length.
Immigration Health Surcharge calculator
Estimate what you will pay upfront for the NHS surcharge, based on your visa length and who is applying with you. Figures are the 2026 rates.
The surcharge is paid in one go when you apply. Each full year is charged in full; a leftover period of six months or less counts as half a year, and more than six months counts as a full year. If you are applying from outside the UK for a visa of six months or less you pay nothing, and this calculator does not cover that case. This is a guide, not immigration advice. Check the exact amount on the GOV.UK IHS payment page before you apply.
Read the full walkthrough: The Immigration Health Surcharge explained.
Before you apply: common requirements
- A valid reason and route: work, study, family or another category that fits your situation.
- Proof of funds: most routes ask you to show you can support yourself.
- English language: many routes need an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT).
- A sponsor, where required: work and study routes usually need a licensed sponsor.
Frequently asked questions
Which UK visa should I apply for?
It depends on your purpose. Work goes through the Skilled Worker or Global Talent routes, study through the Student route, and joining family through a family visa. Each has its own eligibility and cost.
How long until I can settle permanently?
As of 2026 the standard route to Indefinite Leave to Remain is five years, but the government has confirmed this will rise to ten years for most people from autumn 2026 under the earned settlement reforms.
What is the Immigration Health Surcharge?
It is a fee that gives visa holders access to the NHS, currently £1,035 per adult per year and £776 for students and children, paid in advance for the length of your visa.
Do all visas need a job or study offer?
No. Most work and study routes need a sponsor and an offer, but some, such as the Global Talent visa, do not.
