British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is weighing proposals to abolish visa fees for leading scientists, academics, and digital experts as part of efforts to drive growth, the Financial Times reported. While the Home Office has not yet formally taken up the proposals, officials confirmed that visa routes remain under review. “This isn’t about diluting our determination to bring down net migration but it’s about getting the brightest and best into Britain. There is unity across government on this,” said one official.Chancellor Rachel Reeves is also reviewing the tax system to ensure it supports the UK’s ability to attract top global talent. Her recent changes to the non-domicile tax regime have raised concerns about wealthy individuals leaving Britain, though early data suggests the impact has been limited.In the year ending June 2023, the number of global talent visas granted rose 76 per cent to 3,901.

Source: The Times September 22, 2025 05:20 UTC