The UK Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): What You Need to Know
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a mandatory fee paid by most non-UK residents when applying for a visa to live, work, or study in the UK for more than six months. This payment provides access to the National Health Service (NHS) during your stay, on largely the same terms as UK residents.
As of July 2025, the UK Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)Â fees are:
£1,035 per year for most adult visa applicants, including primary work and family visas.
£776 per year for students, dependants of students, and those on the Youth Mobility Scheme, including applicants under 18 years old
Benefits of the IHS
Access to NHS Services: Paying the IHS allows you to use NHS hospital and GP services, emergency treatment, and most other healthcare without extra charges at the point of use.
Peace of Mind: You receive a flat annual fee for healthcare, which is generally less expensive and more comprehensive than private health insurance required in some other countries.
Streamlined Administration: Enables straightforward access to healthcare from the start of your visa, without the need for complex insurance documents
There is No IHS in Albania
Albania does not require an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) similar to the UK for student, work, or residency visas. Instead, international students and other long-term residents are typically required to have valid health insurance as part of their visa or residence permit application.
Common Questions on the UK IHS
What Happens If You Don’t Pay?
No Access to NHS: You will not be legally entitled to use most NHS services, and may have to pay for all healthcare at private rates.
Administrative Delays: You may receive a notice asking for immediate payment to continue your application. Failure to pay within the specified window (usually 7–10 days) results in a denial
Are There Alternatives to the IHS?
Short-Term Visitors: If you’re staying for less than six months as a visitor, you pay for any NHS care at the point of use and do not pay the IHS; some treatments are not available to visitors
Who Needs to Pay?
Dependants: The fee applies per person, including children.
Renewal: Pay the IHS again with each visa renewal or extension
Why Do You Need to Pay the IHS?
Failing to pay the IHS on time is a critical issue—your legal right to stay, study, or work in the UK depends on completing this payment promptly.