UK student NHS surcharge in 2026.

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a mandatory fee paid by most non-UK nationals applying for a visa lasting longer than 6 months. For Student Route applicants, the IHS must be paid as part of the visa application before a decision can be made. As of 2026, the rate is GBP 776 per year for students and their dependants.

How it is calculated: The IHS is calculated on the full visa duration granted, not the course length. If your course is 3 years but the visa is granted for 3 years and 4 months (common for students with pre-sessional or post-study periods), you pay IHS for the full visa period rounded up to the nearest year. Always calculate IHS based on the expected visa length, not just the academic calendar.

Student Route applicants budgeting for visa costs, Graduate Route applicants, dependants of students, and students comparing private insurance options against IHS obligations.

• Short-term study visa holders (6 months or less) — IHS is not required.
• Visitors to the UK — separate travel insurance is needed.
• Applicants for other visa routes (Skilled Worker, Family, etc.) — different IHS rates and rules apply.

The IHS entitles you to NHS care on the same basis as a UK resident. This includes GP visits, hospital treatment, A&E services, and mental health support through the NHS. You do not need private medical insurance for these services.

Medical services for students available through the NHS include routine check-ups, vaccinations, sexual health services, and management of long-term conditions. Many universities also have on-campus NHS GP practices that offer appointments designed around the student timetable, with extended hours during term time. Registering with a GP near your accommodation as soon as you have a permanent address gives you access to these services throughout your studies.

Not covered by IHS: Dental treatment (NHS dental charges apply separately), prescription charges (GBP 9.90 per item in England in 2026, free in Scotland/Wales/NI for students), optical services (eye tests and glasses), and some specialised treatments. Students from the EU/EEA with a valid GHIC may have additional coverage for pre-existing conditions.

The IHS is paid upfront as part of the online visa application. You cannot submit the visa application without paying the surcharge. Payment is by debit or credit card. The IHS reference number is generated after payment and must be saved for your records. If the visa is refused, the IHS is automatically refunded.

Refunds are issued automatically if the visa is refused or if you withdraw before a decision. If you are granted less time than you paid for (e.g., paid for 3 years but granted 2), you can request a partial refund through the GOV.UK IHS refund portal. Refunds are not available if you simply change your mind after the visa is granted. Processing time for refunds ranges from 6 to 12 weeks.

• Assuming private insurance replaces IHS. Having private medical insurance does not exempt you from paying the IHS. Both may be required.
• Underbudgeting for dependants. Each dependant pays the full IHS rate. A family of four may face several thousand pounds in surcharge fees alone.
• Losing the IHS reference. The reference is needed for refund claims. Save the confirmation email.
• Misunderstanding that IHS does not cover dental or prescriptions. Budget separately for these costs.
• Calculating IHS on course length instead of visa length. Overlooking the pre-sessional or post-study period means underpaying and risking visa refusal.