In 2024, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a key component of the visa application process for individuals looking to join their spouse or partner in the UK. If you’re planning to apply for a UK spouse visa, understanding the IHS fee and how it works is essential. This article will guide you through the IHS fee for a spouse visa, how it is calculated, when and how to pay it, and important considerations for your visa application.
What Is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)?
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a mandatory fee that foreign nationals must pay when applying for most UK visas, including the spouse visa. The IHS grants visa holders access to the National Health Service (NHS) during their stay in the UK. The aim is to ensure that migrants contribute to the cost of healthcare in the country, which is used by both residents and visitors.
How Much Is the IHS Fee for a Spouse Visa in 2024?
The IHS fee for a spouse visa is calculated based on the length of the visa you are applying for. As of 2024, the IHS fee for a spouse visa is:
£624 per year for the applicant
If you are applying for a two-year spouse visa (also known as a spouse visa (UK) on a 2.5-year route), the total IHS fee will be £1,560.
If you are applying for a five-year spouse visa (i.e., a longer-term spouse visa), the total IHS fee will be £3,120.
In addition to the applicant, if any dependents are included in the application (such as children), they will also need to pay the IHS fee. The IHS fee for each dependent is the same as for the main applicant: £624 per year.
Example:
If you are applying for a 2.5-year spouse visa and have one child as a dependent, the total IHS fee would be:
£1,560 (for the main applicant) + £1,560 (for the dependent child) = £3,120.
When Do You Pay the IHS Fee?
The IHS fee must be paid at the same time as your visa application. When you apply for your spouse visa online, you will be directed to the IHS payment page. It is important to note that the IHS payment is separate from the visa application fee, so you will need to pay both fees to complete your application.
The IHS fee is non-refundable, even if your visa application is refused. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that you meet all the eligibility requirements before paying the IHS fee.
How Is the IHS Fee Calculated?
The IHS fee is calculated by multiplying the annual fee (£624) by the total duration of the visa you are applying for. Here’s a simple breakdown of the most common visa durations and the corresponding IHS fees:
2.5-year spouse visa: £624 × 2.5 years = £1,560
5-year spouse visa: £624 × 5 years = £3,120
10-year spouse visa (for settlement purposes): £624 × 10 years = £6,240
In addition to the base IHS fee, you will also need to pay the visa application fee, which is a separate cost.
What Is Covered by the IHS Fee?
Once you have paid the IHS fee, you will have access to the National Health Service (NHS) during your stay in the UK. This means you can access:
1. General medical care, such as doctor visits, hospital treatments, and emergency services.
2. Maternity care and childbirth services.
3. Treatment for any medical conditions, including long-term conditions.
4. Prescriptions and medical supplies (though some may require additional charges).
5. Mental health support services.
It is important to note that some services, such as dental care, eye tests, and prescriptions, may still require additional payment, even if you’ve paid the IHS fee.
Can the IHS Fee Be Waived or Reduced?
In certain situations, the IHS fee may be reduced or waived. These are some of the scenarios where you might not have to pay the full IHS fee:
Diplomats or Representatives: If the applicant is a diplomat, or part of an international organization, they may be exempt from paying the IHS fee.
Dependents under 18: If the dependent is under the age of 18, they may be eligible for a reduced IHS fee.
Certain visa categories: There are other exemptions available for individuals applying for specific visa types. For example, some Tier 2 visas or temporary workers may be eligible for a reduced fee.
How Do I Pay the IHS Fee?
Paying the IHS fee is a straightforward process that occurs during the visa application process. Here’s how to make the payment:
Complete the Visa Application: After completing the online visa application form, you will be redirected to a page to pay the IHS fee.
Enter Payment Details: You will need to enter your payment details (credit/debit card or other payment methods).
Receive a Payment Confirmation: Once your payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation of payment. Be sure to keep a copy of the payment confirmation for your records.
Complete the Visa Process: After paying the IHS fee, you can continue to submit your visa application, attend your biometric appointment (if applicable), and wait for a decision.
What Happens If I Don’t Pay the IHS Fee?
If you do not pay the IHS fee, your spouse visa application will not be processed. The Home Office requires payment of the IHS fee before they will consider your visa application. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that you pay the IHS fee at the time of submitting your visa application.
If your IHS fee payment is insufficient or incorrect, your visa application will be delayed, and you may be asked to provide further documentation or make a new payment.
Can I Get a Refund for the IHS Fee?
Unfortunately, the IHS fee is non-refundable, even if your visa application is refused. Therefore, it is important to ensure that you meet all the eligibility criteria for the spouse visa before paying the IHS fee. However, if you leave the UK or your circumstances change, you may be able to apply for a refund of the IHS fee for the unused portion of your visa.
Do Children Pay the IHS Fee?
Yes, children who are included in your spouse visa application must also pay the IHS fee. The fee for dependents (children) is the same as for the main applicant, i.e., £624 per year.
If your child is applying for a visa separately, they will also need to pay the IHS fee, even if they are not applying as part of the spouse visa application.
Key Points to Remember About the IHS Fee for Spouse Visa
The IHS fee for a spouse visa in 2024 is £624 per year for the applicant, and the total is based on the length of your visa.
You must pay the IHS fee at the same time as your visa application, and it is a mandatory part of the process.
The IHS fee grants you access to the NHS during your stay in the UK.
There are no refunds for the IHS fee, so it’s essential to ensure you qualify for the visa before making the payment.
Dependents, including children, must also pay the IHS fee.
Certain applicants may be eligible for reduced or waived IHS fees depending on their circumstances.
Conclusion
The Immigration Health Surcharge is an important part of the UK spouse visa application process. In 2024, the fee is £624 per year, and it grants you access to the NHS during your stay in the UK. Ensure that you pay the IHS fee at the same time as your visa application and keep a copy of your payment confirmation. If you have any doubts about your eligibility or how much you need to pay, it is advisable to consult with an immigration lawyer to ensure a smooth application process.
By understanding the IHS fee and its implications, you can better plan for your UK spouse visa application and avoid any unexpected issues.
Related topics:
- How Much Does It Cost to Sponsor a Spouse?
- How Much Does an Immigration Attorney Cost?
- How Much Does It Cost to Marry an Immigrant?
