When planning to study in the United Kingdom, one of the mandatory costs you’ll encounter during your visa application is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). While it may appear as just another fee, the IHS plays a critical role in ensuring international students have access to the UK’s healthcare system throughout their studies.
What is the Immigration Health Surcharge?
The Immigration Health Surcharge is a payment made by non-UK nationals when applying for a student visa. It grants full access to the National Health Service (NHS), the UK’s publicly funded healthcare system, during your stay. Think of it as a student health insurance that provides coverage similar to that enjoyed by UK residents.
Unlike private insurance that requires co-pays or deductibles, the IHS enables you to receive most medical services at little or no additional cost. This includes visits to a general practitioner (GP), treatment in hospitals, emergency services, mental health support, and prescriptions (subject to standard charges).
How Much Do Students Pay?
As of the latest regulations, international students are required to pay £776 per year for the IHS as part of their visa application. For courses lasting over six months, the amount is calculated based on the total length of your visa, not just your course. For example, if your course is one year long but your visa covers 16 months (to allow time before and after your studies), you’ll be charged for 1.3 years, which comes to around £1,009.
Here’s a simple breakdown:
1 year course (16-month visa): £776 × 1.3 = £1,009
2-year course (27-month visa): £776 × 2.25 = £1,746
This fee must be paid upfront at the time of submitting your visa application.
What Does the IHS Cover?
Once you’ve paid the IHS and received your visa, you are entitled to use NHS services similar to a UK resident. These include:
Free GP (family doctor) appointments
Hospital treatment (including emergencies and surgeries)
Mental health services
Maternity and reproductive health services
COVID-19 testing and vaccinations
Some cancer screenings and treatments
24/7 emergency care and ambulance services
What’s not covered:
Dental and eye care (except emergency)
Cosmetic procedures
Private treatments
Some travel vaccinations
Prescriptions in England typically cost around £9.90 per item, even with IHS coverage.
Why is the IHS Important?
The UK has one of the most respected public healthcare systems in the world. Paying the IHS not only protects you against unexpected medical costs but also ensures peace of mind throughout your academic journey.
Without this surcharge, you’d need to purchase expensive private health insurance or risk significant out-of-pocket expenses in case of illness or accident.
The IHS also ensures you’re not treated as a private patient unless you choose to pay separately for private services. You’ll receive an NHS number once registered, which allows for streamlined access to doctors, hospitals, and prescriptions.
Refunds and Exceptions
If your visa is refused or you cancel your application before approval, you will be refunded the IHS automatically. However, once your visa is granted and you’re in the UK, no refund will be issued—even if you leave your course early or do not use NHS services.
Some exceptions apply, such as for those on short courses (under 6 months), visitors, or if switching visas within the UK. It’s important to double-check your visa type and IHS eligibility before applying.
Final Thoughts
For many international students, the IHS might seem like just another bureaucratic hurdle. But in reality, it’s a valuable safety net that ensures you receive medical care without the stress of unexpected costs. From flu season to mental health support, the NHS is there for you, just like it is for local students.
Planning to study in the UK? Make sure you budget for the IHS alongside your tuition and living expenses. It’s not just a fee—it’s a ticket to one of the most reliable healthcare systems in the world.
At Universitio, we guide you through every part of your study journey—from choosing the right course to handling your visa application and understanding key requirements like the IHS. Book your free consultation now and move one step closer to a safe, successful academic life in the UK.
