The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) has been a hot topic in recent years, especially with the introduction of the “new IHS fee” This fee is charged to non-EEA migrants who come to live, work, or study in the UK for more than six months The purpose of the IHS is to help fund the National Health Service (NHS) and ensure that migrants have access to healthcare services during their stay in the UK.
The new IHS fee, which came into effect on October 27, 2020, saw a significant increase in the amount that migrants are required to pay Previously set at £400 per year, the new fee now stands at £624 per year for most visa applicants This represents a 56% increase in the cost of healthcare for migrants coming to the UK.
The decision to raise the IHS fee has been met with mixed reactions Supporters argue that the increase is necessary to ensure that migrants contribute their fair share towards the cost of healthcare services in the UK They point out that the NHS is a valuable resource that provides care to all residents, regardless of their immigration status, and that it is only fair for migrants to pay their part in supporting this vital institution.
On the other hand, critics of the new IHS fee have expressed concerns that the increase will place an undue financial burden on migrants, many of whom are already struggling to make ends meet in a foreign country They argue that the higher cost may deter talented individuals from coming to the UK to work or study, ultimately harming the country’s economy and reputation as a welcoming and diverse nation.
One of the groups most affected by the new IHS fee are international students As of October 27, 2020, most student visa applicants are now required to pay the full £624 IHS fee for each year of their course This means that a student coming to the UK for a three-year undergraduate program would need to pay a total of £1,872 for healthcare coverage during their stay.
For many international students, this represents a significant additional cost on top of tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses new ihs fee. Some students have voiced their concerns that the new IHS fee may put studying in the UK out of reach for those from less affluent backgrounds, limiting their opportunities for academic and professional growth.
In response to these concerns, the UK government has introduced some concessions for certain groups of migrants For example, individuals applying for the Youth Mobility Scheme visa are only required to pay the IHS fee for the duration of their visa, rather than for each year of their stay This means that a young person coming to the UK for two years under this scheme would pay a total of £1,248 for healthcare coverage.
Similarly, those applying for the Graduate Route visa are also exempt from paying the IHS fee for the full duration of their course Instead, they are only required to pay for the duration of their visa, which is typically two years This is seen as a positive step in encouraging international students to remain in the UK after completing their studies and contribute to the country’s economy and workforce.
Overall, the new IHS fee has sparked debate and discussion about the role of migrants in supporting the UK’s healthcare system While some view the increase as a necessary step to ensure the sustainability of the NHS, others are concerned about the potential impact on individuals, families, and the country as a whole.
As the UK continues to navigate its post-Brexit landscape and redefine its relationship with the rest of the world, the issue of immigration and healthcare will remain a contentious and complex issue It is important for policymakers, stakeholders, and the public to engage in constructive dialogue and find solutions that balance the needs of migrants with the demands of the healthcare system.
In the meantime, migrants coming to the UK should be aware of the new IHS fee and factor this cost into their plans and budgets By staying informed and prepared, individuals can navigate the immigration process more effectively and make informed decisions about their healthcare coverage during their stay in the UK.