Studying or working in the UK comes with several responsibilities, one of which is understanding the UK’s Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). Whether you are a student, a skilled worker, or a dependent, paying the IHS ensures that you can access healthcare through the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). This guide explains who needs to pay, how much it costs in 2025, when to pay, how to qualify for a refund, and what your coverage includes.
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a mandatory fee that international students and migrants must pay when applying for a visa lasting more than six months in the UK. The fee grants access to most NHS services at no additional cost during your stay in the UK.
Although it is not a substitute for private health insurance, the IHS provides comprehensive access to essential public healthcare, including GP visits and emergency care.
Who Needs to Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) in the UK?
Most applicants for a UK visa of more than six months are required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This includes:
- International students
- Skilled workers
- Family visa holders and their dependents
- Temporary migrants staying more than six months
IHS Fee 2025: What You’ll Pay
The Immigration Health Surcharge in the UK for 2025 is as follows:
- Students and dependents: £776 per year
- General applicants (including workers): £1,035 per year.
- Visas under six months:
- £388 (if applying from inside the UK)
- Free (if applying from outside the UK).
If your visa is for two years, the IHS amount is multiplied accordingly (e.g., £1,552 for students).
When & How to Pay the IHS
You must pay the IHS fee when you apply for your visa online. After calculating the correct amount, you will be redirected to a payment page. After your payment is successful, you will receive an IHS reference number, which is essential to completing your visa submission.
If you underpay or forget to pay, the UK Home Office will notify you within ten working days. Failure to pay will result in a visa refusal.
Access to the NHS after paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
Once your visa is approved and you have entered the UK, you will be eligible to register with a general practitioner (GP) and use NHS services. These services include:
- GP appointments
- Emergency (A&E) treatment
- Maternity care
- Mental health support
- Hospital treatment and surgeries.
Note that prescription charges, dental care, and eye care are not fully covered and may involve additional fees.
Who is exempt from the IHS?
While most migrants must pay, exemptions apply for:
- Health & care visa applicants
- Asylum seekers
- Children under local authority care
- Members of the armed forces & diplomats
- Applicants under the EU Settlement Scheme
- Human trafficking victims
Always check the UKVI or gov.uk website for a full and updated list.
Refund Policy for the UK's Immigration Health Surcharge
Refunds are possible under certain conditions:
Full Refund:
- Visa is refused
- Visa withdrawn before the decision
- Payment was made twice
Partial Refund:
- Visa granted for a shorter time than requested
- A dependent’s visa was refused
- You switch to a visa that requires less IHS
No Refund:
- Visa approved, but you don’t travel
- You leave the UK early
- Visa changed to a non-IHS route
Refunds are issued within 28 days automatically to the original payment method.
Dependents and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) in the UK
Each dependent must pay the same IHS fee as the primary applicant. For example, a student applying with a spouse and child will pay £2,328 per year.
- £776 x 3 = £2,328 per year.
Dependents also need to register with their own GP and access services independently.
Is Private Health Insurance Still Necessary?
In the UK, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) provides access to most NHS services. However, private health insurance can offer faster access to specialists.
- Faster access to specialists
- Coverage for dental, optical, and elective surgeries
- International coverage (outside the UK)
- Emergency travel coverage or repatriation
Although optional, it is recommended, especially for students bringing dependents.
For anyone planning to live, study, or work in the UK, understanding the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is essential. Knowing the costs, benefits, and exemptions can help you plan your move efficiently and avoid visa delays.
Need help?
STS Global Education offers full support for visa applications, health insurance advice, and GP registration guidance.
FAQs
Yes, full or partial refunds are available under certain conditions. See the refund section above.
Yes, after registering with a GP, you can access NHS services like a UK citizen.
Your visa application will be rejected if the IHS is unpaid or underpaid.
No. Each family member must pay the IHS individually.
If included under the IHS, refunds are handled automatically in case of visa refusal or overpayment.
