Understanding the Immigration Health Surcharge: Navigating the UK’s NHS Fee for Migrants

When applying for a visa to stay in the United Kingdom for a period longer than six months, you are required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This mandatory fee is part of your immigration application and contributes to the UK’s National Health Service, ensuring you have access to the UK healthcare system on generally the same basis as a UK resident.

Understanding the specifics of the IHS is critical for any potential UK immigrant. You must know whether you are eligible, the exact amount you need to pay based on your visa type, how to complete the payment, and what to do after the payment has been made. Any IHS fees must be paid upfront and are usually non-refundable, barring some exceptions where a refund may be applicable.

Key Takeaways

• The IHS is mandatory for non-EU nationals seeking to live in the UK for over six months.
• You must pay the IHS as part of the visa application process.
• After payment, you will have access to healthcare services in the UK.

Eligibility and Payment Information

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a financial obligation tied to the UK immigration process that you must settle if you are seeking certain types of visas. Understanding who needs to pay, how much is due, and available payment options is essential for a smooth application process.

Who Needs to Pay the IHS

Visa Applicants seeking to stay in the UK for more than six months are required to pay the IHS. This includes those applying from outside the UK, extending their current visa, or switching to a different visa. If you’re a Student Visa or Youth Mobility scheme applicant, or if you have a Health and Care Worker Visa under the EU Settlement Scheme, payment is expected. Family Members and Dependants are generally not exempt and must also contribute to the surcharge, with specific amounts varying based on the visa category.

Calculating the Surcharge

The amount you need to pay depends on your visa type. As an example, students and those on a Youth Mobility visa currently pay £470 per year, while other visa types are charged at £624 annually. These rates are subject to change, and you should confirm the current fee when applying. The total amount payable is calculated according to the full length of your visa.

Payment Methods and Exemptions

The IHS is typically paid online as part of your visa application. Payment needs to be made using a credit or debit card. Certain individuals may qualify for an exemption, such as diplomats or asylum seekers. Furthermore, a reimbursement scheme exists for qualifying health and social care workers. Detailed information on payment methods and criteria for exemptions can be found through the UK’s government services.

After Payment Procedures

Making the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) payment is a critical step in your visa application process. Once payment is confirmed, several key developments occur, primarily involving receiving a reference number, the processing of your application, and the pathways for any refunds or reimbursements.

Receiving the IHS Reference Number

After you pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), you will receive an IHS reference number. This number is crucial as it needs to be included in your visa application. Keep this number safe, as it’s also necessary if you need to contact the NHS Business Services Authority about your IHS payment.

Application and Visa Processing

With your IHS payment complete and your reference number at hand, your visa application can proceed. The IHS charge, alongside the application fee, facilitates your access to healthcare services provided by the National Health Service (NHS) during your stay in the UK. Keep in mind that the IHS payment does not expedite your visa processing; it merely fulfils the healthcare component of the immigration requirements.

IHS Refunds and Reimbursements

If your visa application is unsuccessful or you cancel it before any action has been taken on the application, you’re eligible for a full refund of your IHS payment. In the event of receiving a shorter visa than applied for, you may request a partial refund. For IHS refunds or adjustments, you should directly engage with the NHS Business Services Authority. In case of discrepancies or disputes over the IHS, you can request an administrative review for reimbursement. Keep records of all transactions and communications to smoothen the refund process.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) has specific costs depending on your visa duration and entitles you to certain healthcare services during your stay in the UK. Below are some commonly asked questions about the IHS.

How is the cost of the Immigration Health Surcharge calculated for visa applicants?

The cost of the IHS is typically based on the length of the visa you are applying for. For example, a Skilled Worker applying for a 3-year visa would need to pay £3,105 for the IHS.

What healthcare services are covered by the payment of the IHS?

When you pay the IHS, you gain access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) on generally the same basis as a UK resident. This includes visits to a doctor (GP), receiving hospital treatment, and urgent care.

Who is eligible for an exemption from the Immigration Health Surcharge?

Some individuals, such as diplomats or family members of European Economic Area (EEA) nationals, may be exempt from paying the IHS.

Under what circumstances can I receive a refund for the Immigration Health Surcharge?

You can receive a full refund of the IHS if your visa application is denied or withdrawn. If your visa duration is reduced or you leave the UK before your visa expires, you may receive a partial refund.

Will the amount I have to pay for the Immigration Health Surcharge change in the near future?

The IHS rates have been updated before, with a recent increase announced in October 2023. Any future changes would be published by the UK government. Always check the latest information to ensure you are aware of the current charges.

What is the process for paying the IHS for a dependent child included in my visa application?

When including a dependent child in your visa application, you must pay the IHS for each dependent separately. This is typically a lower rate than the main applicant and needs to be completed as part of the overall visa application process.

If you need help with an immigration adviser, Buckingham Legal Associates are one of the UK’s top immigration advisers and can help with a wide range of matters such as sponsor licences, skilled migrant visas, partner visas and much more.