Immigration Health Surcharge
The Immigration Health Surcharge grants all lawful non-visitor overseas nationals access to UK health services. It is an additional fee that is paid on top of the application fee.
You usually need to pay the healthcare surcharge if you’re applying for a visa or immigration application:
for more than 6 months, if you’re applying outside the UK.
for any length of time, if you’re applying inside the UK.
You do not need to pay if you’re applying for a visitor visa or to remain in the UK permanently.
Who is eligible for an Immigration Health Surcharge refund?
You are eligible for a full Immigration Health Surcharge refund if:
You paid the IHS twice for the same visa application.
Your visa application is refused.
You withdraw your visa application before a decision is made.
You will receive a partial refund if your application is successful but:
The Home office grants you less time on your visa than you asked for.
Any dependants on your visa application are refused a visa – you’ll only get their IHS back.
You’re applying to extend or switch your visa in the UK and have paid the IHS twice for the same period.
Who is not eligible for a refund:
You will not receive an Immigration Health Surcharge refund if:
You withdrew your visa application after it was granted.
You leave the UK before your visa expires.
You are told to leave the UK by the Home Office before your visa expires.
Your visa application is successful but you do not come to the UK.
You apply for Indefinite Leave to Remain.
You’re switching to another visa category which is exempt from the IHS.
How to apply for an IHS refund
If you are due a full or partial refund for these reasons, you do not have to do anything to get it. It will be paid to the account or card that you paid with.
How long does it take to get an IHS refund?
Usually, you should receive your refund within 28 days of getting a decision on your visa application. Refunds can take longer if you appeal the application decision or if you ask for an administrative review after your application has been refused.
Written by Mya Alghali
Call to action
If you would like assistance with your visa application Thomas Chase Immigration can help. Our processes are tried and tested. We offer an individual touch when assisting you and presenting the matter to UKVI. We also offer consultations of you would like to discuss your eligibility and options.
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