UK Dependant Visa IHS Fees 2026 – What to Know

The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a mandatory fee that must be paid in addition to the UK Dependant Visa application fee. The surcharge grants applicants access to the National Health Service (NHS) during their stay in the UK, offering the same healthcare entitlements as UK residents.

In this guide, we break down the IHS structure, current rates, eligibility, exemptions, refund policies, and payment processes to help you plan better for your UK visa journey.

Key Takeaways:

• What is the IHS? A compulsory charge allowing visa holders access to NHS services in the UK.
• Who Pays? Anyone applying for a UK visa valid for over six months, including dependants. Some categories are exempt.
• IHS Fee 2026:
  • Standard applicants: £1,035/year
  • Students and their dependants: £776/year
• When to Pay? During the online visa application process.
• Refunds: Available if the visa is refused; not issued if the visa is granted but unused.
• Plan Ahead: The increased fee should be considered when budgeting for your visa application.

Check Also: UK Family Visa Financial Requirements – Complete Guide

What is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)?

Introduced in April 2015, the IHS ensures that non-UK residents contribute to the NHS when staying in the UK for an extended period. Payment of the surcharge provides access to essential NHS services, such as:

• General practitioner (GP) consultations
• Emergency treatment
• Hospital care

Note: The IHS does not cover:

• Prescriptions
• Dental care
• Optical services

The IHS must be paid upfront for the entire duration of your visa.

Benefits:

1. Full Access to the NHS

Dependant visa holders who pay the IHS are entitled to:

• Visit general practitioners (GPs)
• Access hospital care and emergency treatment
• Receive maternity services
• Get mental health services
• Access family planning services (excluding certain contraceptives)

2. No Extra Cost for Most Treatments

Once the IHS is paid:

• Most NHS services are free at the point of use
• No need to pay expensive private insurance or up-front medical costs
• Only small charges apply for prescriptions, dental, and eye care (similar to what UK citizens pay)

3. Coverage for Entire Stay

The IHS covers the entire duration of the visa (e.g., 1 year, 3 years, 5 years), so dependants can access care without renewing health insurance annually.

4. Support for All Family Members

All dependants—spouse, partner, and children—are covered individually once their IHS is paid. Each person receives the same healthcare benefits as UK residents.

5. Peace of Mind and Legal Compliance

Paying the IHS:

• Ensures legal access to healthcare services
• Reduces stress and financial burden in case of unexpected medical needs
• Complies with UK immigration requirements, avoiding visa issues

6. Pregnancy and Childbirth Coverage

The NHS covers:

• Antenatal care
• Childbirth
• Postnatal care
  This benefit is particularly important for families with young children or expecting parents.

7. Continuity of Care

As long as the visa is valid, dependants can register with a local GP and maintain consistent medical care without gaps.

Who Needs to Pay the IHS?

You must pay the IHS if you are:

• Applying for a UK visa lasting more than 6 months (including Dependant Visas)
• Extending your stay or switching visa categories within the UK

Visa categories that require IHS payment include:

• Family and Dependant Visas
• Student Visas (and dependants)
• Skilled Worker Visas
• Youth Mobility Scheme

Exemptions:

You may be exempt from the IHS if:

• You are applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR)
• You are an asylum seeker
• You hold a Health and Care Worker visa
• You are applying under the EU Settlement Scheme

Official reference: UK Government IHS Guidance

UK IHS Fees:

Example Calculation:

A spouse and one child joining a student visa holder for 2 years would pay:

• £776 x 2 (spouse) + £776 x 2 (child) = £3,104

Fees are charged per year and rounded up. A 2.5-year visa means paying for 3 full years

When and How to Pay the IHS:

You will be directed to pay the IHS as part of the online visa application. The system automatically calculates your fee based on:

• Visa category
• Length of stay

Payment Method: Debit or credit card

After Payment: You will receive an IHS reference number (e.g., IHS123456789), which you should keep for future reference.

Important: Your visa application will not be submitted without paying the IHS.

Can I Get an IHS Refund?

Refunds are issued if:

• Your visa application is refused
• You withdraw your application before biometric submission

Refunds are not issued if:

• Your visa is granted but you do not travel to the UK
• You leave the UK early before your visa expires

Refunds are generally processed automatically to the original payment method. If not, you can apply for a refund through UKVI.

Need Help with Your Dependant Visa?

Navigating the UK immigration system can be complex, especially with evolving policies and rising fees. At Spouse Visa Lawyers, we assist you with:

• Document preparation
• Application reviews
• Up-to-date compliance guidance

Book a free consultation to increase your chances of visa success and avoid costly mistakes.

Frequently Asked Questions: