On 13 October 2023, the UK Home Office announced a sharp 66% increase to the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for visa applicants coming to the UK for over 6 months. This substantial IHS price hike will take effect on 16 January 2024. But what exactly is the Immigration Health Surcharge? And who will need to pay the higher rate? This article explores the purpose of the surcharge, reasons behind the increase, who it impacts, and what applicants can expect to pay.
What is the Immigration Health Surcharge?
Introduced in 2015, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a fee paid by non-EEA nationals seeking temporary UK visas for over 6 months. It allows migrants to access NHS services in the UK at no additional cost. The surcharge is mandatory and cannot be waived for any applicant staying over 183 days. When introduced, the IHS was £200 per year. It has gradually increased over time to cover growing NHS expenses.
Why Increase the Immigration Health Surcharge Now?
This abrupt 66% increase comes as the UK faces inflation and recession pressures. The Home Office states the NHS fee hike will boost funding for healthcare services heavily impacted by COVID-19. The £844 million in projected annual revenue will help offset NHS deficit stresses. Rights groups argue it exploits migrants already contributing tax to help support NHS sustainability.
Who Needs to Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge?
Any non-EEA temporary migrant over age 18 applying for a UK visa over 6 months must pay the IHS upfront as part of their application fee. This includes Tier 2 work visas, Tier 4 student visas, partner/family visas, and many other categories. Those under 18 or applying for visas under 6 months are exempt. The new IHS rate only applies to applications submitted after January 2024.
How Much Will the Immigration Health Surcharge Cost?
Once increased, the IHS will be: · £624 per year for temporary migrants · £470 per year for students and youth mobility migrants · Maximum surcharge is £4,968 for visas over 8 years
So for example, a Tier 2 migrant staying for 3 years must pay £1,872 upfront. That is £936 more than under current rates. For longer terms, costs substantially increase. Ten years would require £5,230 in IHS fees, over a £4,000 hike compared to present charges.
The Bottom Line on the Immigration Health Surcharge Rise
While aimed at sustaining a struggling NHS post-pandemic, the over 60% Immigration Health Surcharge increase disadvantages non-EEA migrants who already support public services via taxes in the UK. Health professionals have urged the Home Office to delay the IHS hike given the current economic crisis. In any case, applicants seeking over 6 month visas must budget for steeply elevated healthcare fees coming 16 January 2024.
