Introduction
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a critical component of the UK immigration process, necessitating most visa applicants to contribute to the National Health Service (NHS). The Immigration Health Surcharge is due to increase on the 31st of January 2024.
Increased IHS Rates Explained
Under the Immigration (Health Charge) (Amendment) Order 2023, the main IHS rate for UK immigration applications is proposed to surge by 66%, increasing from £624 to £1035 per applicant per year. Similarly, the discounted rate for children, students, their dependents, and youth mobility workers is set to rise from £470 to £776 per year. This hike significantly affects visa costs over multiple years, as demonstrated in the following examples:
3-Year Visa Costs:
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- 1 Adult: £3105
- 1 Child: £2328
- 2 Adults: £6210
- 2 Adults & 1 Child: £8538
- 2 Adults & 2 Children: £10,866
5-Year Visa Costs:
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- 1 Adult: £5175
- 1 Child: £3880
- 2 Adults: £10,350
- 2 Adults & 1 Child: £14,230
- 2 Adults & 2 Children: £18,110
For applications involving part of a year, half of the yearly amount is payable if the duration is less than six months. A full year’s fee applies for any part of the year exceeding six months.
Can You Avoid the IHS Fee Increase?
The impending increase will apply to immigration applications made on or after the date the Order becomes law. Applicants are advised, where feasible, to finalise and submit their applications before the new fees are enacted. In certain scenarios, early application submission may enable payment of the current, lower IHS fee. It’s crucial to seek legal advice tailored to individual circumstances to determine the possibility of applying before the rate hike and to mitigate any potential negative impact on immigration status or history.
For specific advice on UK immigration, including understanding and navigating the IHS fee increase, Don’t Hesitate to Reach to Our Immigration Experts at Primus Solicitors, we can provide comprehensive guidance on any of your legal concerns.
Conclusion
The 2024 IHS fee increase represents a significant change for UK visa applicants, with substantial financial implications. It’s essential for applicants to stay informed, plan their applications judiciously, and seek expert advice when needed. For specialised assistance regarding the IHS increase and its impact on your or your employees’ applications, Primus Solicitors, as UK immigration specialists, are available to provide support and guidance.
