What is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) for UK Student visas?

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a fee paid by most international visa applicants to access the National Health Service (NHS) during their stay in the UK. For students, it is paid upfront when applying for the Student visa.

Current rate:
£776 per year (as of 2024). This is paid for the full duration of your course, not annually. For example, a 3-year degree costs £776 × 3 = £2,328 in IHS, paid at application.

What you get for paying IHS:
Once you have paid the IHS and hold a valid Student visa, you are entitled to use the NHS on the same basis as a UK resident:
- GP appointments
- Emergency treatment
- Hospital treatment
- Prescription medications (you pay the standard prescription charge of approximately £9.90 per item in England — free in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland)
- Mental health services
- Maternity services

What is NOT included:
- Dental treatment (you get NHS dental at reduced prices but it is not free)
- Eye tests and glasses
- Some elective treatments

Exemptions from IHS:
- Students from certain countries with reciprocal healthcare agreements (limited — check UKVI guidance)
- Students who are asylum seekers or refugees
- Some short-term study visa holders (6 months or less)

How to pay:
Through the online visa application process. You cannot apply for the Student visa without paying the IHS first. Keep your IHS payment reference — you will need it.

Dependants: Partners and children applying on dependent visas must also pay the IHS at the same rate.