If you’re planning to study in the UK, one of the key requirements you’ll need to be aware of is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This fee is mandatory for most international students and their dependents applying for a Student Visa. It ensures that you can access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay, just like a UK permanent resident. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the IHS, including how it works, how much it costs, and what it means for you and your dependents.
What is the Immigration Health Surcharge?
The Immigration Health Surcharge is a fee paid by individuals applying for a UK visa that allows them to stay in the country for more than six months. For students, this means that if you’re applying for a Student Visa, you and any dependents will need to pay the surcharge to access NHS services. While this grants you access to most NHS treatments for free, certain services, such as prescriptions, will still require payment, just as they do for UK residents.
The current cost of the IHS is £776 per year, and it is calculated based on the total length of your visa, not just the duration of your course. This includes the additional time granted before and after your course (30 days before and 4 months after).
How Does the IHS Affect Students and Dependents?
The IHS is a significant additional cost for students and their dependents. Here’s a breakdown of how the surcharge is calculated based on the length of your course:
| Length of Course | Maximum Length of Leave | Surcharge Amount per Applicant |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | 1 year 5 months | £1,164 |
| 2 years | 2 years 5 months | £1,940 |
| 3 years | 3 years 5 months | £2,716 |
To find out the exact amount you’ll need to pay, you can use the Immigration Health Surcharge checker available online:
IHS Checker Tool
When Do You Need to Pay the Surcharge?
The IHS is paid as part of your visa application process. Here’s how it works:
- Online or Premium Service Applications: If you’re applying online or through a premium service centre, you’ll pay the IHS as part of your application or when you book an appointment.
- Postal Applications: If you’re applying by post, you must pay the surcharge online before submitting your application. You’ll need to include the IHS reference number on your application form. The payment can be made here:
IHS Payment Portal
Is the IHS Optional?
No, the IHS is a compulsory requirement for most visa applications to enter or remain in the UK for more than six months. However, there are a few exceptions:
- Nationals of Australia and New Zealand are exempt from paying the surcharge. However, they still need to go through the payment system to obtain an IHS reference number if applying by post.
- Other exemptions apply to a small number of students. If you believe you fall into one of these categories, it’s best to consult an immigration adviser for guidance.
What Information Do You Need to Pay the IHS?
To pay the correct amount, you’ll need your exact course start and end dates, which can be found on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) statement. If you don’t have this information, contact your university’s international admissions team.
What Happens If You Pay the Wrong Amount?
Paying the incorrect amount can delay your visa application. If you underpay, UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) will contact you to pay the remaining balance:
- Inside the UK: You’ll have 10 working days to pay the outstanding amount.
- Outside the UK: You’ll have 7 working days to pay.
Failure to pay the full amount will result in a visa refusal.
What If You Pay the Surcharge Twice?
If you accidentally pay the IHS twice, you can request a refund:
- Overseas Applicants: Notify the visa application centre during your biometric appointment.
- UK Applicants: Request a refund through the IHS payment website.
For more information on contacting UKVI, visit:
Contact UKVI
Will You Get a Refund If Your Visa Is Refused?
Yes, if your visa application is refused, you’ll automatically receive a refund of the IHS fee.
What If You Don’t Use the NHS or Leave the UK Early?
Unfortunately, you won’t receive a refund of the IHS if your visa is granted, even if you don’t use the NHS or leave the UK before your visa expires.
What Happens If You Suspend Your Studies?
If you suspend your studies, you’ll need to leave the UK and apply for a new visa when you’re ready to resume your studies. This means you’ll need to pay the IHS again as part of your new application.
Where Can You Find More Information?
For more details about the Immigration Health Surcharge and how it affects you, visit the Home Office website:
Home Office IHS Overview
Final Thoughts
The Immigration Health Surcharge is an essential part of the UK Student Visa application process. While it adds to the overall cost of studying in the UK, it ensures that you and your dependents have access to healthcare during your stay. Make sure to calculate the correct amount, pay on time, and keep all documentation handy to avoid delays or complications with your visa application.
If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to your university’s international student support team or consult the official UK government resources. Good luck with your studies in the UK!
