How Much Is Immigration Health Surcharge

When planning to live or study in the United Kingdom for more than six months, one essential cost to consider is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This fee grants you access to the National Health Service (NHS) during your stay. Understanding how much the IHS costs and how it’s calculated can help you budget effectively for your time in the UK.

What Is the Immigration Health Surcharge?

The Immigration Health Surcharge is a fee that most individuals applying for a UK visa or immigration permission must pay. Introduced in 2015, the surcharge ensures that migrants contribute to the cost of their healthcare while residing in the UK. The amount you pay depends on various factors, including your age, the type of visa you’re applying for, and the length of your stay.

Current IHS Rates (As of July 2025)

As of July 2025, the Immigration Health Surcharge is structured as follows

• £1,035 per yearfor main applicants and adult dependants on most visa types, such as Skilled Worker, Global Talent, and Family visas.
• £776 per yearfor students, their dependants, Youth Mobility Scheme participants, and applicants under 18 years of age.

These fees are payable upfront for the entire duration of your visa. For instance, if you’re applying for a 3-year visa, the total IHS would be

• £3,105for main applicants and adult dependants.
• £2,328for students, their dependants, Youth Mobility Scheme participants, and applicants under 18 years of age.

Partial Year Applications

If you’re applying for a visa that lasts less than 6 months, youdo notneed to pay the IHS. However, if your application is for more than 6 months but less than a year, you will need to pay the full annual IHS rate, regardless of the actual length of your stay. For example

• £1,035for main applicants and adult dependants.
• £776for students, their dependants, Youth Mobility Scheme participants, and applicants under 18 years of age.

Who Is Exempt from Paying the IHS?

Some individuals are exempt from paying the Immigration Health Surcharge. These include

• Applicants forHealth and Care Worker visas.
• Individuals applying under theHealth and Care Worker route(previously known as the Health and Care Visa).
• Applicants forIndefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)orBritish citizenship.
• Individuals applying forVisitor visasfor stays of 6 months or less.

It’s important to check the specific requirements for your visa category, as exemptions can vary.

How to Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge

The IHS is paid as part of your visa application process. When you apply online, you will be directed to the IHS payment portal, where you can make the payment using a debit or credit card. After payment, you will receive a unique IHS reference number, which you must include in your visa application.

Failure to pay the IHS or underpayment can result in delays or refusals of your visa application. Therefore, it’s crucial to ensure that the correct amount is paid at the time of application.

What Does the IHS Cover?

Paying the Immigration Health Surcharge entitles you to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) for the duration of your visa. This includes

• General practitioner (GP) services.
• Hospital treatment.
• Emergency services.
• Prescriptions (though charges may apply in some areas).
• Dental and eye care (though charges may apply).

However, it’s important to note that the IHS does not cover all healthcare costs. For example, you may still need to pay for

• Private healthcare services.
• Some dental and optical services.
• Prescriptions in certain parts of the UK (e.g., England).

Therefore, it’s advisable to have additional health insurance to cover any services not included under the NHS.

Refunds and Adjustments

If your visa application is refused, you may be eligible for a refund of the Immigration Health Surcharge. The refund process varies depending on the circumstances, so it’s essential to contact the Home Office or consult their official guidance for detailed information.

Additionally, if you extend your stay in the UK, you will need to pay the IHS again for the new period of leave granted. The amount payable will depend on the length of your extension and your visa category.

The Immigration Health Surcharge is a significant cost for individuals applying for long-term visas to the UK. It’s essential to understand the current rates, who is required to pay, and what the surcharge covers to effectively plan your finances. Always ensure that you pay the correct amount at the time of your visa application to avoid delays or complications with your immigration process.

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