Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for UK Student Visas
Immigration Health Surcharge
International students applying for a UK Student Visa to study a two-year A Level programme at John Leggott Sixth Form College must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This mandatory fee ensures access to the National Health Service (NHS) for the duration of your visa, giving reassurance that you can receive medical care whenever needed while studying in the United Kingdom.
What Is the UK Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)?
The IHS is a fee required by the UK government for international students and other visa holders. Paying this surcharge allows you to access most NHS services in the same way as permanent UK residents. It is a vital part of your Student Route visa application and must be paid before your application can be submitted.
Who Must Pay the IHS When Studying in the UK?
All international students applying for a UK Student Visa for a course longer than six months, including two-year A Level programmes, are required to pay the IHS. This ensures that while living in the UK, you can use NHS healthcare services such as registering with a GP, visiting hospitals, or seeking emergency medical care.
How Much Is the Immigration Health Surcharge for Students?
For students, the IHS is currently £776 per year of the visa.
The Home Office calculates your total fee based on full-year and part-year periods.
If the final part of your visa is six months or less, you pay half the yearly rate.
If it’s longer than six months, you pay a full year.
For most two-year A Level programmes, students pay for two full years plus either an additional half year or a full year, depending on their visa length.
What Healthcare Services Are Included With the IHS?
Paying the IHS allows you to access most NHS services, including:
Registering with a GP
Attending doctor appointments
Receiving hospital treatment
Emergency care
This coverage ensures you have essential healthcare support throughout your studies.
Are Dental, Prescription, or Optical Services Covered?
Some services are not included in the IHS and may require additional payment:
Dental treatment
Prescription medications
Optical services (e.g., eye tests, glasses)
These costs are standard for everyone living in England and are only paid when you use the services.
How the Home Office Calculates Your Total IHS Payment
The Home Office calculates your IHS cost based on:
Full-year periods
Part-year periods
Visa length beyond course duration
The Student Route visa system automatically calculates the correct surcharge when you complete your application online.
How to Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge on Your UK Visa
Complete your Student Route visa application online.
The system will automatically calculate your IHS.
Make the payment online before submitting your application.
Receive your IHS reference number via email and on the application cover sheet.
Using the Official IHS Cost Calculator
You can estimate your IHS cost before applying using the official Home Office calculator: IHS Calculator.
This tool provides an approximate total based on your visa type, course length, and start/end dates.
IHS Guide for International Students in the UK
The Immigration Health Surcharge is an essential requirement for all international students applying for a UK Student Visa. Paying the IHS ensures access to NHS services, giving you peace of mind and healthcare support while studying. Remember to calculate your total fee, make the payment online, and keep your IHS reference number safe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don’t pay the IHS?
Your Student Visa application cannot be submitted or approved until the IHS is paid.
Can I get a refund if I leave the UK early?
Partial refunds may be available in some circumstances, but you will need check the Home Office guidelines.
Are family members covered under my IHS?
No, each dependent must pay their own IHS.
Does the IHS cover prescriptions and dental care?
No, these services are excluded and require additional payment.
Can I estimate the IHS before applying?
Yes, use the official Home Office IHS calculator to estimate costs.