The new Immigration Health Surcharge was introduced by the British Government to help pay for Health Care used by those that migrate to the UK to work, live and study. Once you have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge the Home Office inform and notify the NHS England. You will then be able to access NHS services as normal the same as any UK resident would. If you live outside of England or visit or move to an area of the UK outside of England such as Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, then it’s advised you carry evidence of paying the Immigration Health Surcharge as they may not have a record of you paying for this service. Despite the name, National Health Service (NHS), each regional country in the UK operate their own NHS system and records and systems are not typically integrated or shared. In all instances you will be expected to bring your Biometric Residence Permit BRP with you for any healthcare treatment or appointments to verify your entitlement.

Who has to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of my UK Visa Application?

• You don’t have to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge if you come to the UK on a visitor visa or similar visa that has 6 months or less time limit attached to it
• You don’t have to pay if you are applying Indefinite Leave to Remain to settle in the UK
• If you are applying for a Visa to come to the UK for 6 months or more such as a student visa, work visa etc then you have to pay
• If  you are applying for a Visa from within the UK to extend your stay then you have to pay

How do I pay the Immigration Health Surcharge?

If you are mailing your application (sending it though the post), then you have to pay your Immigration Health Surcharge online. Once you complete the online payment an IHS reference number is generated. You must include this on the application form before you send your application to the Home Office.

How much is the Immigration Health Surcharge?

Certain nations have agreements with the UK and hence don’t have to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge. when you are completing the online form you may notice the fee is zero. You still have to keep track of your Immigration Health Surcharge number and use this on your application. See out updated information for the Immigration Health Surcharge for Australian and New Zealand citizens. 

• £150 per year as a student, eg £300 for a 2-year visa
• £200 per year for all other visa and immigration applications, eg £1,000 for a 5-year visa
• Your dependents will usually have to pay the same amount as you