Immigration Health Surcharge Increase

The UK Government initially announced a planned increase to the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) in July 2023, with an expected implementation in Autumn 2023. Due to the parliamentary process, the increase faced delays, but it is now confirmed to take effect on February 6, 2024, following the approval of The Immigration (Health Charge) (Amendment) Order 2023 earlier this week.

Starting February 6, 2024, the IHS will see a 66% increase, raising the standard rate from £624 to £1,035 per person per year and the discounted rate for students and under-18s from £470 to £776. The Government justifies this hike as a measure to support NHS funding, covering the full cost of treating individuals subject to the surcharge.

This increase is expected to impact overseas nationals residing in or planning to move to the UK long-term to join their family, those who are planning to study in the UK for a period of more than six months, or work for a UK employer.

The increase is also expected to impact employers who often bear these costs for sponsored workers under the Skilled Worker route. Employers may need to reassess the cost-benefit considerations or explore Clawback Agreements to recover these fees. Those facing upcoming IHS payments are advised to expedite relevant applications to avoid the higher fees if their current immigration status allows for it.

For further information about the Immigration Health Surcharge payment, or about any other Immigration Law matter, please contact us.

Emel Dag Kilickaya is a solicitor and specialist in Immigration Law at Barker Gotelee Solicitors.

For more information on our range of legal services, please call the team on 01473 611211 or email [email protected]