UK visa, settlement and sponsor fees to increase 6-7 % on 8 April 2026
EU postpones biometric checks for Eurostar and Eurotunnel passengers as EES deadline looms
UK extends emergency Channel-patrol deal, paying France an extra £16.2 million
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Ryanair and regional carriers warn UK travellers of fuel-driven schedule cuts
ITV News reports that Ryanair may axe up to 10 % of summer flights and Skybus has halted its Cornwall–Gatwick service as record jet-fuel prices stemming from the Iran conflict bite. Regional cuts and ad-hoc fuel surcharges pose reliability risks for business travellers and relocation schedules, highlighting the need for flexible booking policies and contingency planning.
New data reveal UK airports with highest flight-cancellation rates
CAA statistics analysed by Your Harlow show Southampton Airport topped the UK disruption league in 2025 with a 7.45 % cancellation rate, while Heathrow cancelled under 1 % of flights. The numbers highlight the reliability gap between smaller regional hubs and major London airports, offering valuable input for travel-policy decisions and assignment-planning.
Home Office confirms visa, sponsor and settlement fees will rise on 8 April 2026
From 8 April 2026 almost every UK visa, nationality and sponsorship fee will go up by 6-9 %. Standard Visitor visas rise to £135, Student visas to £558 and Skilled Worker visas (≤3 years) to £819, while sponsor-licence and ILR fees also increase. Corporates face higher on-boarding costs and a narrow window to file applications at the old rates, underscoring the importance of budget and timeline reviews.
UK Electronic Travel Authorisation to cost 25 % more from 8 April
The Home Office will increase the fee for the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation from €18 to €23 (£20) on 8 April 2026. The higher charge funds further digital-border upgrades and will affect millions of visa-exempt travellers, including EU citizens and short-term business visitors. Corporates should adjust travel budgets and remind staff of the 72-hour lead time for obtaining the now-costlier ETA.