The UK Health Surcharge, officially called the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), is a mandatory fee that most foreign workers must pay when applying for a UK work visa. This fee allows visa holders to access the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), which provides healthcare services during their stay.
If you are planning to work in the UK, understanding the Health Surcharge is very important. This guide explains what it is, how much it costs, who must pay it, and what benefits you receive.
What Is the UK Health Surcharge?
The UK Health Surcharge is a healthcare fee paid by foreign nationals when applying for a UK visa that lasts more than 6 months.
Once paid, it allows you to use NHS healthcare services like UK citizens. The NHS covers:
• Doctor visits (GP appointments)
• Hospital treatment
• Emergency services
• Maternity care
• Some mental health services
This means you do not need private health insurance for most treatments.
Who Needs to Pay the UK Health Surcharge?
Most foreign workers must pay the surcharge, including applicants for:
• Skilled Worker visa
• Health and Care Worker visa (discounted or exempt in some cases)
• Temporary Worker visa (over 6 months)
• Graduate visa
• Global Talent visa
If your visa is less than 6 months, you usually do not pay this fee.
How Much Is the UK Health Surcharge for Workers?
The current Immigration Health Surcharge is:
• £1,035 per year for most adult workers
• £776 per year for students and children
Example:
If your work visa is valid for 3 years:
• £1,035 × 3 = £3,105 total surcharge
This amount must be paid during the visa application.
When Do You Pay the Health Surcharge?
You must pay the IHS fee online as part of your visa application process.
Steps:
• Complete your visa application online
• System calculates your IHS amount automatically
• Pay using debit or credit card
• Receive IHS reference number
Your visa application will not be processed without payment.
What Does the Health Surcharge Cover?
After paying the surcharge, you can access NHS services such as:
• General doctor (GP) consultations
• Hospital treatment
• Emergency care
• Pregnancy and maternity services
• Treatment for illness or injury
This makes healthcare affordable and accessible.
What Is Not Fully Covered?
Some services may require additional payment, such as:
• Prescription medicines in England
• Dental treatment
• Eye tests and glasses
These costs are usually lower than private healthcare.
Are Health and Care Workers Exempt?
Yes. Many workers under the Health and Care Worker visa are exempt from paying the Immigration Health Surcharge.
This includes jobs like:
• Nurses
• Care workers
• Doctors
• Senior healthcare assistants
This exemption helps attract healthcare professionals.
Do Family Members Need to Pay the Health Surcharge?
Yes. Each dependent must pay the surcharge separately.
For example:
If you apply with spouse and 1 child for 2 years:
• Worker: £2,070
• Spouse: £2,070
• Child: £1,552
Total: £5,692
Can the Health Surcharge Be Refunded?
Refunds are possible in some cases:
• Visa application refused
• Visa withdrawn before decision
• Overpayment
Refunds are usually automatic.
Why Does the UK Charge Health Surcharge?
The surcharge helps fund the NHS and ensures foreign workers contribute to the healthcare system.
It also allows workers to receive high-quality healthcare without buying expensive private insurance.
FAQs About UK Health Surcharge
Is the UK Health Surcharge mandatory?
Yes, most foreign workers must pay it.
Is it paid monthly or yearly?
It is paid fully in advance during visa application.
Can I use NHS immediately after arrival?
Yes, once your visa is approved.
Do care workers pay IHS?
Many care workers are exempt under the Health and Care Worker visa.
Is IHS refundable if visa is rejected?
Yes, you usually receive a full refund.
Do dependents pay separately?
Yes, each person must pay individually.
Is private insurance required after paying IHS?
No, NHS coverage is usually sufficient.
Does IHS guarantee free treatment?
Most services are covered, but some small charges may apply.
Final Thoughts
The UK Health Surcharge is an essential part of the UK work visa process. While it may seem expensive, it provides access to one of the world’s best public healthcare systems.
For foreign workers, this ensures safety, financial protection, and peace of mind while living and working in the UK.
Understanding this fee helps workers plan their migration budget properly and avoid surprises during the visa application process.