UK Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Fee Calculator
Calculate your Immigration Health Surcharge fee for UK visa applications with current 2025 rates
What is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)?
The Immigration Health Surcharge is a fee paid by non-EU nationals applying for a UK visa lasting more than 6 months. This surcharge grants you access to the National Health Service (NHS) during your stay in the UK, similar to UK residents.
Current IHS Rates (2025)
| Visa Category | Annual Rate | Student/YMS Discount Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Visas (Work, Family) | £1,035 per year | N/A |
| Student Visa | N/A | £776 per year |
| Youth Mobility Scheme | N/A | £776 per year |
How to Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge
Payment Methods
- Credit or debit card online
- PayPal account
- WorldPay payment system
When to Pay
- During your online visa application
- Must be paid before submitting application
- Payment required for each applicant and dependant
Payment Process
- Complete your visa application online
- System will calculate your IHS fee automatically
- Pay the surcharge using accepted payment methods
- Receive IHS reference number
- Include reference number in your visa application
Who Must Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge?
Required to Pay IHS
- Non-EEA nationals applying for visas longer than 6 months
- Students from outside the EEA
- Workers on Skilled Worker visas
- Family visa applicants
- Youth Mobility Scheme participants
- All dependants of main applicants
Exempt from IHS
- Visitor visa applicants (up to 6 months)
- Transit visa holders
- Diplomatic visa holders
- NATO personnel and families
- Isle of Man and Channel Islands workers
- Asylum seekers and refugees
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a refund on my IHS payment?
Refunds are only available if your visa application is refused or withdrawn before a decision is made. Partial refunds may apply if your visa is granted for a shorter period than applied for.
What if I extend my visa?
You must pay additional IHS for any visa extension. The fee will be calculated based on the extended period and current rates at the time of extension.
Do children pay the same rate?
Yes, children and dependants pay the same IHS rate as the main applicant. There are no discounts for children or family groups.
What healthcare does IHS cover?
IHS provides access to most NHS services including GP visits, hospital treatment, and emergency care. Some services like dental and optical care may still require additional fees.
NHS Services Covered by IHS
Included Services
- GP consultations and treatments
- Hospital inpatient and outpatient care
- Accident and Emergency (A&E) services
- Mental health services
- Maternity care
- Prescription medications (prescription charge applies)
- Community health services
Additional Charges May Apply
- NHS dental treatment (except emergency care)
- Eye tests and glasses
- Prescription charges (currently £9.90 per item in England)
- Some specialist treatments
- Private healthcare options
References
- HM Government. (2025). Healthcare as part of your immigration application. Gov.UK. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application
- Home Office. (2025). Immigration Health Surcharge: How much you’ll pay. Gov.UK. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/healthcare-immigration-application/how-much-pay
- UK Visas and Immigration. (2025). Immigration Rules – Healthcare and the Immigration Health Surcharge. Home Office.
- NHS England. (2025). NHS services for overseas visitors and charging guidance. Department of Health and Social Care.
- Migration Advisory Committee. (2024). Review of the Immigration Health Surcharge. Home Office commissioned report.