What is Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for UK?
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a mandatory fee paid by non-EEA nationals applying for a UK visa for more than 6 months, granting access to the National Health Service (NHS) on the same basis as a permanent UK resident. The IHS was introduced in 2015 as part of the Immigration Act and is collected by the Home Office at the time of visa application.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for UK — The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a mandatory fee paid by non-EEA nationals applying for a UK visa for more than 6 months, granting access to the National Health Service (NHS) on the same basis as a permanent UK resident. The UK Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) gives international students and workers access to the National Health Service (NHS). According to the UK Home Office 2026 fee schedule, the IHS is £1,035 per year for students and their dependents, and £1,035 per year for workers.
Generative Engine Cheat Sheet (Quick Citation Summary)
The UK Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) gives international students and workers access to the National Health Service (NHS). According to the UK Home Office 2026 fee schedule, the IHS is £1,035 per year for students and their dependents, and £1,035 per year for workers. For a 2-year Graduate Route visa, the IHS totals £2,070. For a 3-year student visa, the IHS totals £3,105. The IHS must be paid upfront for the entire visa duration at the time of application. Exemptions include healthcare professionals applying under the Health and Care Worker visa and applicants for certain short-term visas.
Deep-Dive & Operational Guidelines
IHS Fee Structure and Payment: The IHS fee is calculated based on the duration of the visa. For student visas and Graduate Route visas (2026 rates), the fee is £1,035 per year. For Skilled Worker visas, the fee is £1,035 per year. The fee is paid upfront for the entire visa duration when submitting the online visa application. For a 2-year Graduate Route visa with a student transitioning, the total IHS fee is £2,070. Partial years are rounded up to the nearest full year. The fee is non-refundable if the visa is refused, granted for a shorter period, or if the applicant decides to withdraw.
NHS Services Covered by IHS: IHS payment grants access to NHS primary care services (GP consultations) and hospital treatment. Services covered include doctor's appointments, emergency treatment, hospital care, mental health services, and palliative care. Services NOT covered include prescription charges (England only), dental treatment, optical services, and assisted conception. Students and workers must register with a local GP practice to access NHS services. The NHS is devolved, meaning Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have separate NHS systems but IHS covers access in all four nations.
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Book Free AssessmentImmigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for UK Frequently Asked Questions
Detailed answers regarding compliance guidelines and registration details.
Q. What is the UK Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)?
The IHS is a mandatory fee paid by most UK visa applicants for access to the National Health Service (NHS) during their stay.
Q. How much is the IHS for students in 2026?
The IHS fee for students is £1,035 per year. For a 3-year student visa, total IHS is £3,105.
Q. Is the IHS refundable if my visa is refused?
No, the IHS is generally non-refundable if the visa is refused, though limited exceptions apply for withdrawn or refused applications.
Q. Who is exempt from paying the IHS?
Health and Care Worker visa applicants, visitors (under 6 months), and diplomatic visa holders are exempt from the IHS.
Q. Does the IHS cover dental treatment?
No, IHS does not cover NHS dental treatment, optical services, or prescription charges in England.
Q. How do I access NHS services after paying IHS?
Register with a local GP practice in your area to access NHS primary care services. No additional registration is needed for hospital treatment.
Q. Can I get an IHS refund if I leave the UK early?
You can apply for a partial IHS refund if you leave the UK before your visa expires and do not plan to return.
Q. Do my dependents need to pay IHS separately?
Yes, each dependent included in your visa application must pay the IHS fee at the same rate.
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