How much do biometrics cost for a UK visa in 2026?

Biometrics fees vary depending on where and how you enrol. In-country applications through UKVCAS typically include biometrics in the visa fee. Overseas applications at a visa application centre may include biometrics in the standard fee or charge extra for premium services. Walk-in and priority services cost more.

What happens at a biometrics appointment?

You will have your photograph taken and provide fingerprints using a digital scanner. The whole process usually takes 10-15 minutes. You may also need to submit your passport and supporting documents.

Can I use the UKVCAS app instead of attending in person?

For many in-country applications, you can use the UK Immigration: ID Check app to scan your biometric passport and take a selfie. This replaces the in-person biometrics appointment for eligible applicants with a biometric chip passport.

Do children need to provide biometrics?

Children under 5 do not need to provide fingerprints but do need a photograph. Children aged 5 and over must provide both fingerprints and a photograph. A parent or guardian must accompany children to the appointment.

UK Visa Biometrics Fee Guide 2026: Costs and What to Expect

Biometrics — your fingerprints and photograph — are required for most UK visa applications. The cost and process depend on whether you are applying from inside or outside the UK, and whether you choose standard or priority services. This guide covers all the options.

What Are Biometrics

Biometrics in the context of UK immigration means your fingerprints and a digital photograph. These are captured during the visa application process and used to verify your identity. Your biometric data is stored securely and linked to your immigration record.

Since the UK moved to eVisas, biometrics play an even more important role. Your immigration status is linked to your biometric data rather than a physical document, making enrolment a critical step.

Costs for In-Country Applications

If you are applying from within the UK (for example, to extend a spouse visa or extend a Skilled Worker visa), you use the UKVCAS (UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services) system run by Sopra Steria.

Standard appointment: Free (included in your visa application fee). You book a slot at a UKVCAS centre.
Priority appointments: Available at an extra cost (around £100-£250) for earlier slots or faster document submission.
Premium lounge service: Typically £300-£500, offering a same-day walk-in experience.
Smartphone app (ID Check): Free for eligible applicants. You scan your biometric passport and take a selfie without visiting a centre.

The standard free appointment is available for all applicants, though waiting times for slots vary by location and time of year. Book as soon as you submit your online application.

Costs for Overseas Applications

If you are applying from outside the UK, you attend a visa application centre (VAC) operated by TLScontact or VFS Global, depending on your country.

Standard service: Biometrics are usually included in the visa application fee.
Priority visa: An additional fee (varies by country, typically £250-£500) for faster processing.
Super priority: Available in some countries for an additional fee, with a decision within one working day.
Premium application service: Some VACs offer assisted form-filling, document review, and priority submission for extra fees.

Check the GOV.UK visa application centre finder for your nearest centre and available services.

What Happens at Your Appointment

The biometrics appointment itself is straightforward:

Arrive at your scheduled time with your passport and appointment confirmation
Your identity is checked against your application details
Your fingerprints are captured using a digital scanner (all 10 fingers)
A digital photograph is taken
You may be asked to submit your passport and supporting documents

The biometric capture takes about 10-15 minutes. The whole appointment, including waiting time and document submission, can take 30-60 minutes depending on how busy the centre is.

For more detail on preparing for your appointment, see our biometrics appointment guide.

Using the Smartphone App

For many in-country applications, you can skip the appointment entirely by using the "UK Immigration: ID Check" app. To use it, you need:

A biometric passport (with a chip) — most modern passports qualify
A compatible smartphone with NFC capability
The app installed (available on iOS and Android)

The app guides you through scanning your passport chip and taking a selfie. The process takes about 15 minutes and can be done from home. This is free and avoids the need to travel to a UKVCAS centre.

Special Circumstances

Disability or mobility issues: UKVCAS centres offer reasonable adjustments. Contact them in advance to arrange accessible appointments.
Unable to provide fingerprints: If you cannot provide fingerprints due to a medical condition, bring a doctor's letter. The Home Office will note this on your file.
Children: Under-5s need a photo only. Children aged 5-15 must attend with a parent or guardian.

Budgeting Tips

Biometrics costs can add up, especially for families. To keep costs down:

Use the free standard UKVCAS appointment where possible
Use the smartphone app if eligible — it saves both money and travel time
Only pay for priority services if you genuinely need a faster appointment
Factor biometrics costs into your overall immigration budget

For a full breakdown of visa costs, see our UK visa fees guide.

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