As part of a UK visa application, most applicants are required to pay an immigration health surcharge (IHS). The question of whether an applicant needs to pay or not, and how much, depends on the visa type. Let’s dig deeper and uncover some of the key facts around this fee.
Payment of the IHS entitles visa holders access to treatment provided by the National Health Service (NHS) on broadly the same basis as a permanent UK resident for the duration of their visa. Once the IHS payment has been made, the applicant will receive a payment confirmation email that also includes an IHS reference number that can be used in dealings with the NHS.
Who needs to pay the IHS?
Applicants will usually be required to pay this healthcare surcharge if applying from outside the UK for a visa stay in the UK of more than six months, or for any length of time if applying from inside the UK. The online visa application form directs the applicant to pay this surcharge if it is relevant to that visa route.
Who does not need to pay the IHS?
There are a number of exceptions, for example, anyone who is applying for indefinite leave or under the EU Settlement Scheme. Visitor and short-term visa holders in the UK do not need to pay the surcharge. However, these visa holders will need to pay for any NHS care, unless it’s a service that is free.
How much does the IHS cost?
The current immigration healthcare surcharge fees are:
- £776 per year for students, their dependants, and those on a Youth Mobility Scheme visa
- £776 per year for visa and immigration applicants who are under the age of 18 at time of application
- £1,035 per year for all other visa and immigration applications
Please note that these fees are subject to change by the UK Government at short notice. Newland Chase will quote the current fees as part of the application process.
This news alert is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For case-specific guidance or further information, please contact Newland Chase directly.
