The Clergy Conduct Rules 2026

The order states that it enables the Secretary of State to exercise powers under the Immigration Act 2014 to charge for specific immigration and nationality functions.

Proponents argue that introducing fees for the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) ensures that those benefiting from the digitisation of the UK border contribute to its costs.

The document specifies that charging for contact point services allows for the recovery of costs associated with providing support to applicants during the visa process.

The Explanatory Memorandum indicates that the measure aligns fee-earning powers with the current operational delivery of immigration control and citizenship services.

Legal commentators have noted that the broad definition of 'contact point services' may grant the Secretary of State significant discretion in determining which administrative interactions require payment.

Migrant rights organisations have expressed concerns that adding fees for basic inquiries or administrative support could create financial barriers for vulnerable applicants.

Implementation difficulties may arise regarding the consistency of fee application across different international contact centres operated by third-party providers.

Critics have questioned the transparency of how fee levels will be set, as the Order provides the legal basis for charging but does not specify the maximum amounts, which are detailed in separate regulations.