Study in UK: Hike In Immigration Health Surcharge for International Students; Know More

The UK Government has recently announced an increase in visa Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) fees. The increment in IHS fees is a part of the UK government’s plan to raise £1 billion to fund the 6 to 6.5 % as a proposed pay raise for public sector workers. The main aim of the UK Government is to benefit the potential public sector workers in the country. 

Students planning to study in the United Kingdom must first obtain a student visa.  As a part of the process, international students have to pay an IHS fee to obtain the National Health Service (NHS). The NHS is a government-funded healthcare service for international students. 

Overview of IHS for International Students 

People entering the UK on the majority of visa types are required to pay an annual IHS charge of £625. International students have to pay around £470 (discounted fee for students). After the hike, the majority of visa applicants will pay £1,035 annually, while international students will pay £776. As applicants pay in advance, there has been an approximate 66% increase, and the price is non-refundable.

Although less than the IHS, the rise in student visa fees for the UK is nevertheless substantial. Although the precise proportion is unknown, studies indicate a 15% rise for work visas and 20% for other visas. A short-term study visa application costs £200; with a 20% rise, the new cost will be close to £240. However, a long-term study visa will cost about £435 instead of the current £363 in the future. 

Moreover, these new implementations must be known by the international students willing to study in the United Kingdom. This will help them to manage their budgets accordingly. 

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