The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): Everything UK Visa Applicants Need to Know
The Immigration Health Surcharge is paid by many applicants as part of a UK immigration application. The total depends on the route, the applicant’s age and the length of permission requested or granted.
The Immigration Health Surcharge is paid by many applicants as part of a UK immigration application. The total depends on the route, the applicant’s age and the length of permission requested or granted.
Current annual rates
At the date this article was reviewed, the standard annual rate is £1,035. A reduced annual rate of £776 applies to students and their dependants, Youth Mobility Scheme applicants and applicants under 18.
The calculation is not always a simple whole-year multiplication. Part-years are treated according to specific rules, and the period granted may extend beyond a course or employment date.
When payment is normally required
The surcharge is usually paid during the online immigration application process, in addition to the application fee. Each applicant and dependant is considered separately.
For an application made outside the UK for six months or less, the surcharge is not normally payable. An in-country application for six months or less is generally charged at half the relevant annual rate.
Exemptions and routes where no IHS is paid
Some applicants do not pay the surcharge, including eligible Health and Care Worker applicants and their dependants. Other exemptions or arrangements may apply depending on the route and circumstances. Always check the current position before calculating the total application cost.
When a refund may be available
A full refund is generally due where the surcharge was paid twice for the same application, the visa application is refused, or the application is withdrawn before a decision.
A partial refund may be due where less permission is granted than requested, a dependant is refused, or an in-country extension or switching application creates an overlapping period of six months or more. Refunds are not available in every situation; for example, leaving the UK early does not generally produce a refund.
Planning the full cost
Before applying, budget for the application fee, IHS for every applicant, biometric or document services where chosen, translations and professional fees. Confirm the route and intended duration before paying because correcting the wrong application can be expensive.
This article provides general information, not advice on an individual case. Immigration rules and guidance change, and the facts and timing of an application matter.
Information reviewed 10 September 2026. Official sources: current IHS rates, IHS refund guidance.