Work out the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) you’ll pay with a UK visa application, for you and any dependants, including the rules for part years.
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IHS rates
| Applicant | Per year |
|---|---|
| Most visa applicants (work, family and others) | £1,035 |
| Students and their dependants | £776 |
| Youth Mobility Scheme | £776 |
| Under 18 at the time of application | £776 |
Part years over 6 months are charged as a full year. A remaining part year of 6 months or less is charged as half a year. Visas of 6 months or less applied for from outside the UK don’t pay the surcharge.
Worked examples
A family on a 3-year Skilled Worker visa
The main applicant pays 3 × £1,035 = £3,105, an adult partner the same, and a child 3 × £776 = £2,328. Total: £8,538, on top of the visa fees.
A 2.5-year visa
Two full years plus half a year: £1,035 × 2.5 = £2,587.50.
A 15-month Master’s student
One year plus a part year of 3 months (half a year): £776 × 1.5 = £1,164.
Some people don’t pay, including Health and Care Worker visa holders and their dependants, and certain other exempt categories. A refund may be available if your visa is refused or you leave the UK early in some cases.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the IHS in 2026?
£1,035 a year for most applicants, and £776 a year for students, Youth Mobility visa holders and children under 18.
When do I pay the IHS?
Upfront, when you apply for your visa, for the whole length of the visa.
Who doesn't have to pay?
Health and Care Worker visa applicants and their dependants, and some other groups, are exempt.
Does the IHS get refunded?
Only in some cases, such as if your application is refused or withdrawn.
Sources
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