Understanding the Immigration Health Surcharge in the United Kingdom
The sharp increase in the Immigration Health Surcharge to £1,145 per year significantly raises the mandatory cost of entry and residency for all non-UK expats and long-term travelers.
Understanding the Immigration Health Surcharge in the United Kingdom
While visa application fees are rising this month, the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) remains steady. This mandatory fee allows long-term residents to access the National Health Service (NHS) without additional costs at the point of care. Despite rumors of a hike, the standard rate is holding at £1,035 per year for most adult visa categories.
The surcharge is paid upfront for the entire duration of your stay. For a nomad on a three-year visa, this totals £3,105. A reduced rate of £776 per year applies to certain groups, including students, Youth Mobility Scheme holders, and applicants under the age of 18.
Who it affects
Most digital nomads and expats staying in the UK for more than six months must pay the IHS. This includes those on Skilled Worker or Global Talent visas. If you are bringing family, keep in mind that dependants pay the fee separately.
Short-term visitors on standard tourist visas for six months or less do not pay the surcharge. However, if you apply for a visa extension from within the UK for a period of six months or less, you will be charged a half-rate fee of £517.50.
What to do
You pay the IHS online as part of your digital visa application via the GOV.UK portal. It is important to have these funds ready alongside your visa fee, as the total cost can be significant. For example, a family of four on a three-year visa will face an IHS bill of approximately £10,866.
While the IHS rate is unchanged, be aware that other visa updates effective April 8, 2026, include a 6% to 7% increase in application fees. A standard visitor visa now costs £135, and indefinite leave to remain has risen to £3,226. Make sure to calculate your total move-in costs by combining these new application fees with the existing IHS rates.
Read our full United Kingdom guide for the complete picture.