UK Immigration Health Surcharge Goes Up to £1,035/Year

The UK government's Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) has been significantly increased, affecting all visa applicants planning to stay in the UK for more than six months. Here's what you need to know about the new rates and how they impact your visa budget.

New IHS Rates

The IHS has been raised to £1,035 per year for adult applicants, up from £624. Students and Youth Mobility Scheme applicants pay a reduced rate of £776 per year, up from £470. The surcharge is paid upfront for the entire duration of the visa at the time of application.

Who Needs to Pay the IHS?

All non-EEA nationals applying for a visa to live, work, or study in the UK for more than six months must pay the IHS. This includes Skilled Worker visa holders, Student visa applicants, family visa applicants, and those applying for settlement. Short-term visitors (under 6 months) are exempt.

What the IHS Covers

The IHS provides access to the UK's National Health Service (NHS) on the same basis as a permanent UK resident. This includes GP consultations, hospital treatment, maternity care, and emergency care. It does not cover some services like dental treatment, prescriptions (in England), and eye tests.

Impact on Total Visa Costs

For a 3-year Skilled Worker visa, the total IHS cost is now £3,105 per adult applicant. Combined with the visa application fee (£719-£1,420), the total cost can exceed £5,000 before even considering other expenses. Families face multiplied costs as each dependent must also pay the IHS.

Refund Policy

If your visa application is refused, you're entitled to a full IHS refund. If you leave the UK before your visa expires, you can claim a refund for unused periods (minimum one complete month of unused coverage). Refund requests are submitted online through the gov.uk portal.

Planning Your Budget

Given the significant cost increase, applicants should factor in the IHS when planning their UK move. Some employers offer to pay the IHS as part of relocation packages — discuss this with your sponsor. Budget for the full amount at the time of application as it cannot be paid in installments.