The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) explained

Current rates

• £1,035 a year for most visa and immigration applications.
• £776 a year for students and their dependants, Youth Mobility Scheme applicants, and applicants under 18.

These rates have applied to applications made on or after 6 February 2024.

How the amount is calculated

• Visas of 6 months or less applied for from outside the UK: no surcharge.
• The IHS is normally calculated by reference to the length of immigration permission granted. Part-year and six-month amounts can apply in some circumstances. The exact amount should therefore be checked against the period of permission and the current GOV.UK calculation rules.

Who does not pay

• Visitors applying from outside the UK for 6 months or less.
• Applicants for indefinite leave to remain.
• Health and Care Worker visa applicants and their dependants.
• Certain protection, armed forces and diplomatic cohorts, and some applicants granted a fee waiver.

Paying and refunds

The surcharge is paid when you apply. If you do not pay enough, UKVI will email you and you must pay within 10 working days (inside the UK) or 7 working days (outside the UK). A full refund is usually made if the application is refused, and a partial refund may be due if a shorter visa is granted.

Figures checked against GOV.UK and legislation.gov.uk on 3 October 2026. Fees and rules change; always confirm the current position on GOV.UK before applying.