The short answer
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a payment that most people applying for a UK visa for longer than six months make as part of the application. It gives you access to the National Health Service (NHS) while you are in the UK on that visa. You pay it online, together with your visa application.
What it is, and what it is not
- It is a charge set by the UK government, calculated for the length of your visa.
- It is not a private insurance policy. It does not choose a doctor for you or send you an insurance card.
- It is not something you can negotiate or buy from a third party. You pay it through the official application.
How it works in practice
- During your Student visa application, you are asked to pay the IHS. The online form shows the amount for your visa length. You can also check it with the official calculator on GOV.UK before you apply.
- You complete the payment as part of the application.
- After you arrive and enrol, you can register with a local GP surgery and use NHS services in the same way as residents.
Check GOV.UK for how a payment is handled if an application is refused or withdrawn.
What the NHS covers, and what may cost extra
The NHS covers much of the care you will need, such as GP appointments and hospital treatment. Some things may still carry a charge, depending on where in the UK you live and what you need. Dental and eye care, and prescriptions in some parts of the UK, are common examples. Check the NHS pages for the part of the UK where you will live.
Do I still need private insurance?
The IHS does not cover everything you might want to protect. Many students also consider insurance for:
- Belongings, such as a laptop or phone
- Travel, including delays, cancellations and baggage loss on your journey
- Dental and optical care, if you expect to need it
These are optional. Decide based on your needs and budget.
Checklist
- To do: Use the official GOV.UK calculator to see the amount for your visa length
- To do: Pay the surcharge only through the official visa application
- To do: Keep your payment confirmation with your visa documents
- To do: After you arrive, register with a GP near your accommodation
- To do: Carry details of your visa and university in case you need care
Common mistakes
- Paying through an unofficial website. The IHS is only ever paid through the official GOV.UK application.
- Assuming the IHS means all care is free. Some charges still apply.
- Waiting until you are ill to register with a GP. Do it in your first weeks.
Verify before you act
The amount, the exemptions and the rules around refunds are set by the UK government and are updated from time to time. Always check the official page: Pay for UK healthcare as part of your immigration application.