Has IHS Fee for UK been increased?

Recently, there has been a significant update regarding the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for individuals seeking entry into the United Kingdom. The IHS, which is a fee paid by non-EEA nationals to access the National Health Service (NHS) during their stay in the UK, has been subject to an increase in its surcharge amount. This change has implications for various visa categories and applicants, impacting the financial considerations of those planning to reside or study in the UK.

Understanding the Changes: Effective immediately, the Immigration Health Surcharge has been elevated from £470 to £776 per year for certain visa categories.

This increase notably affects

students
their dependents
individuals on the Youth Mobility Scheme visa.

For other visa and immigration applications it is £1035 per year

Impact of Visa Duration on IHS

The amount of the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) fee varies depending on the length of the visa granted. Visa granted is more than the duration of the course . If your course is of 12 months, your visa should start one month before your course start date and should cover the length of your course plus an additional four months. Your visa should last for 17 months, so you will be required to pay an IHS fee of £ £1,164 (£776 + £388).

If your visa is for more than a year but less than 18 months, you’ll have to pay:

the yearly cost plus half the yearly cost
£776 + £388 = £1164
the cost of 2 full years, if it’s for more than 18 months but less than 2 years. It will be £1552.

This means that applicants need to consider the total duration of their visa when calculating the surcharge. Hence, it’s essential for individuals to assess their visa duration carefully to plan for the associated surcharge costs accurately.

Exemptions and Exceptions:

Despite the increase, there are exemptions in place. Applicants applying from outside the UK for visas lasting six months or less are not required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge. However, for longer stays, the surcharge is applicable, and the revised fee structure must be taken into account.

Staying Informed: Adapting to Evolving Immigration Policies and Healthcare Regulation

Moreover, it’s essential for individuals to stay informed about any further developments or changes in immigration policies and healthcare regulations. The landscape of immigration and healthcare systems can evolve rapidly, influenced by factors such as political decisions, economic conditions, and global health crises. By staying proactive and vigilant, prospective migrants can adapt their plans accordingly and mitigate any potential disruptions or uncertainties in their immigration journey. Keeping abreast of official announcements from government authorities and consulting reliable sources will help individuals make informed decisions and navigate the complexities of relocating to the United Kingdom smoothly.

Related: How Much Will It Cost To Study In UK?

Conclusion

While the increase may pose challenges for some, it ensures access to essential healthcare services provided by the NHS throughout the duration of the visa. As such, prospective migrants should thoroughly understand these changes and plan their finances accordingly to navigate the immigration process effectively.

As always, it’s advisable to consult official sources or seek professional guidance for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding immigration regulations and associated fees.

For any queries feel free to contact us at +92 300 4007088