The United Kingdom remains one of the most attractive destinations for international students, skilled professionals, entrepreneurs, and families seeking long‑term opportunities. Central to most UK visa applications is a mandatory cost known as the Immigration Health Surcharge, commonly abbreviated as IHS. While many applicants are aware of its existence, fewer understand how it works in practice, how payments are calculated, when refunds apply, and how to avoid costly mistakes during the process. Navigating the UK Immigration Health Surcharge payment and refund process correctly can save applicants significant time, stress, and money.
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about the UK Immigration Health Surcharge, including who must pay it, how much it costs, how to complete the payment step‑by‑step, when refunds are issued, and what to do if something goes wrong. Whether you are applying for a student visa, skilled worker visa, family visa, or extension, this article provides clear, up‑to‑date, and practical guidance to help you move forward with confidence.
What Is the UK Immigration Health Surcharge
The Immigration Health Surcharge is a fee paid by most non‑UK nationals when applying for a visa that allows them to stay in the United Kingdom for more than six months. The surcharge grants access to the UK’s National Health Service on broadly the same basis as permanent residents for the duration of the visa.
Once paid, the surcharge allows visa holders to use NHS services such as GP appointments, emergency treatment, and hospital care without paying at the point of use, with some exceptions like prescriptions, dental care, and optical services which may still require additional charges.
The Immigration Health Surcharge was introduced to ensure that temporary migrants contribute fairly to the cost of public healthcare. Official guidance is published by the UK Home Office and can be reviewed directly on the UK government website at https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application.
Who Needs to Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge
Most applicants coming to the UK for longer than six months must pay the surcharge. This applies whether you are applying from outside the UK or switching or extending a visa from within the country.
You are generally required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge if you are applying for
• A Student visa
• A Skilled Worker visa
• A Global Talent visa
• A Family visa
• A Start‑up or Innovator Founder visa
• A Temporary Worker visa lasting more than six months
• Visa extensions or switches within the UK
Each dependent included in the application must also pay the surcharge separately, even if they are children.
Who Is Exempt From Paying the IHS
Certain categories of applicants are exempt from paying the Immigration Health Surcharge. These exemptions are strictly defined and automatically applied where eligible.
You do not need to pay the surcharge if
• You are applying for indefinite leave to remain or British citizenship
• You are a Health and Care Worker eligible for exemption
• You are a dependent of a member of the UK armed forces
• You are applying for a visitor visa valid for six months or less
• You are an EU citizen with settled or pre‑settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme
• You are a child under local authority care
Health and Care Worker visa applicants should pay close attention to eligibility requirements, as incorrect selection during the application can result in unnecessary charges that require later refunds. Official exemption details are outlined at https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application/who-needs-pay.
How Much Is the UK Immigration Health Surcharge
The cost of the Immigration Health Surcharge depends on the type of visa and the length of stay granted. As of current UK Home Office guidance, the surcharge rates are
• £1,035 per year for most visa categories
• £776 per year for students and their dependents
• £776 per year for applicants under the age of 18
The total amount is calculated based on the full length of the visa being applied for, rounded up to the nearest half year. For example, a two‑year and six‑month visa may require payment for three full years.
It is important to note that surcharge rates are subject to change. Applicants should always confirm current rates on the official government page at https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application/how-much-pay before submitting an application.
When and How the IHS Is Paid
The Immigration Health Surcharge is paid online as part of the visa application process. You cannot complete or submit a UK visa application without paying the surcharge in full.
During your online application, you will be automatically redirected to the IHS payment portal after entering your personal details and visa information. The system will calculate the exact amount owed based on the visa duration and category selected.
Accepted payment methods include
• International debit cards
• International credit cards
The payment must be made in pounds sterling, and your bank may apply additional foreign transaction fees depending on your location.
After successful payment, you will receive an IHS reference number. This number is crucial and is automatically linked to your visa application. You do not need to manually enter it in most cases, but you should save it for your records.
Common Payment Errors and How to Avoid Them
Many visa refusals and delays stem from avoidable mistakes during the Immigration Health Surcharge payment stage. Understanding common errors can help you avoid complications.
One frequent issue is selecting the wrong visa category. Because the surcharge amount differs between students, workers, and dependents, an incorrect category can lead to overpayment or underpayment. Always double‑check your visa type before proceeding.
Another common problem involves incorrect visa duration. Applicants sometimes choose a shorter or longer stay than what the visa allows, resulting in incorrect calculations. Follow the guidance provided in the visa form carefully.
Payment failures may also occur due to bank restrictions on international payments. Inform your bank in advance if necessary and ensure sufficient funds are available.
If a payment fails or freezes, do not attempt multiple payments immediately. Instead, wait for confirmation or contact UK Visas and Immigration support through the official portal.
Understanding the IHS Refund Policy
The UK Home Office provides refunds for the Immigration Health Surcharge in specific circumstances. Refunds are not automatic in all cases, and eligibility depends on the outcome of your visa application and how the surcharge was paid.
You may be eligible for a full or partial refund if
• Your visa application is refused
• You withdraw your visa application before a decision is made
• You paid the surcharge twice by mistake
• You were exempt but paid in error
• You receive a shorter visa than applied for
• You switch to a Health and Care Worker visa after paying
In most refusal or withdrawal cases, refunds are processed automatically without the need for a separate application.
How Long IHS Refunds Take
Refund timelines vary depending on the reason for the refund and the payment method used. On average
• Automatic refunds typically take between 6 and 12 weeks
• Card refunds may appear sooner depending on the issuing bank
• Manual refund requests may take longer due to verification requirements
Refunds are always issued to the original payment method. If the card used has expired, banks usually redirect the funds to the linked account.
Applicants can track refund guidance via official UKVI resources at https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application/refunds.
How to Request an IHS Refund Manually
If you believe you are entitled to a refund but have not received one automatically, you may submit a manual refund request.
To request a refund, you will need
• Your IHS reference number
• Your visa application number
• Proof of payment
• Evidence of exemption or overpayment if applicable
Requests are submitted through the UK Visas and Immigration contact system. It is important to provide accurate details, as incomplete information can delay processing.
IHS and Visa Extensions or Switches
When extending or switching a visa within the UK, the Immigration Health Surcharge must be paid again for the new visa period. Previous payments are not automatically transferred.
However, if your new visa overlaps with time already paid for under a previous visa, the Home Office typically issues a partial refund for the overlapping period after the new visa is granted.
This refund process is usually automatic and does not require additional action unless delays occur.
Dependents and the Immigration Health Surcharge
Each dependent included in a visa application must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge individually. This applies to spouses, partners, and children.
For families, the total cost can be substantial. Careful planning and accurate visa duration selection are essential to avoid unnecessary overpayment.
If a dependent’s visa is refused while the main applicant is approved, the dependent’s surcharge should be refunded automatically.
What the IHS Does Not Cover
While the Immigration Health Surcharge provides broad access to NHS services, it does not cover everything. Visa holders may still need to pay for
• Prescription charges
• Dental treatment
• Eye tests and glasses
• Certain specialist services
For clarity on NHS coverage, applicants can consult the NHS official website at https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad/moving-to-england.
Practical Tips to Navigate the IHS Process Smoothly
To avoid stress and delays, applicants should follow these best practices
• Confirm your visa category and duration before starting the application
• Use a reliable payment card with international transaction support
• Save all payment receipts and reference numbers
• Monitor your email for refund notifications
• Check bank statements regularly after visa decisions
Being proactive can significantly reduce the risk of payment issues.
Conclusion
Understanding how to navigate the UK Immigration Health Surcharge payment and refund process is a crucial part of a successful visa application. While the surcharge is a mandatory requirement for most long‑term migrants, knowing how it works empowers applicants to avoid errors, manage costs effectively, and secure refunds when eligible.
By paying careful attention to visa details, staying informed through official UK government resources, and keeping accurate records, applicants can move through the process with confidence. Whether you are a student, professional, or family member planning a future in the United Kingdom, mastering the IHS process ensures one less obstacle on your immigration journey.