Annual renewal fee for veterinary surgeons now due

The fee is due for payment on or before Wednesday 1 April 2026, with the standard annual fee increasing to £431 from last year’s £418, following approval of the 3% (rounded) increase by both RCVS Council members and the Privy Council. Fee notices will shortly be sent out to all veterinary surgeons. 

Commenting on the fee increase, RCVS Treasurer Dr Tshidi Gardiner MRCVS, said: “This is a small increase in our fees largely in line with current inflation levels. The unique set-up of the RCVS means it remains good value for money compared to other professions where separate fees would have to be paid to a regulator and royal college. 

“The small fee increase will be used to help deliver both our everyday activities and our new ambitious Strategic Plan, which includes aims such as achieving new legislation, reviewing the Codes of Professional Conduct and supporting guidance, and continuing to support the professions through activities such as the Mind Matters Initiative, RCVS Academy and career development.”

The Privy Council also approved a further 3% increase in the annual renewal fee for 2027/28. 

A full breakdown of the new fees can be found on our fees page.

Claiming tax relief on your fees/subscriptions

Did you know that if you have to pay professional fees/subscriptions in order to be able to do your job, you may be able to claim tax relief through HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC)?

Veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses registered with the RCVS may be eligible to claim tax relief against RCVS registration fees under the Income Tax (Earnings and Pensions) Act 2003.

To claim tax relief:

• You must be a UK taxpayer, and pay the RCVS registration fees yourself (they cannot be paid or claimed back by your employer).
• Your registration fees must be directly related to your current job.

The amount you can claim depends on your marginal tax rate and other factors. Basic rate UK taxpayers are typically eligible to claim 20%, while higher rate UK taxpayers may be eligible to claim 40%. If you have not claimed tax relief on your registration fees previously, you may be eligible to make a claim for the last four tax years.

To find out if you qualify and for information on how to make a claim, visit the UK Government website or contact HMRC. You can only make a claim via HMRC, and you may need your PAYE reference and National Insurance number.

Please note: the RCVS cannot provide any advice or support with claiming tax relief.