What is the UK Visa Fee and IHS?

If you're planning to visit or study in the UK, you will need to obtain a visa to enter the country. The UK visa fee is the amount of money that you need to pay to obtain a UK visa. This fee is determined by the type of visa you're applying for and the duration of your stay in the UK. In addition to the visa fee, you will also need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge or IHS. The IHS is a mandatory charge that goes towards the cost of accessing the UK's National Health Service (NHS).

Types of UK Visas

There are several types of UK visas, including visit visas, work visas, and study visas. A visit visa allows you to stay in the UK for up to six months, while a work visa allows you to work in the UK for a specific period. A study visa, on the other hand, allows you to study in the UK for the duration of your course. The type of visa you need will depend on your reasons for visiting the UK and the duration of your stay.

UK Visa Fees

The UK visa fee is non-refundable and must be paid at the time of application. The fee is determined by the type of visa you're applying for and the duration of your stay. For example, as of June 2021, the fee for a standard visitor visa is ￡95 for a six-month visit and ￡361 for a two-year visit. The fee for a study visa is ￡348 for a three-year course and ￡475 for a four-year course.

Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

The Immigration Health Surcharge or IHS is a mandatory charge that goes towards the cost of accessing the UK's National Health Service (NHS). The IHS applies to anyone seeking to enter or remain in the UK for over six months, including students and those on work visas. The charge helps to fund the NHS and means that individuals who are not UK citizens can access NHS services in a similar way to UK citizens who pay national insurance contributions.

How much is the IHS?

The IHS is currently ￡624 per year for adults and ￡470 per year for students and those under the age of 18. The charge must be paid in full and in advance of your visa application. If you're applying for a visa that's longer than six months, you'll need to pay the IHS for the full duration of your stay. For example, if you're applying for a two-year student visa, you'll need to pay the IHS for the full two years.

How to Pay the IHS

The IHS must be paid online through the UK government's website. When you apply for your visa, you'll be directed to the IHS payment page, where you'll need to enter your details and pay the full charge. Once your payment has been confirmed, you'll receive an email with a reference number that you'll need to include in your visa application.

Conclusion

Obtaining a UK visa is an essential part of visiting or studying in the UK. The UK visa fee and IHS are mandatory charges that must be paid at the time of application. The fee and the IHS are determined by the type of visa you're applying for, the duration of your stay and the status of your application. By understanding the fees and payment process, you can make sure that your application is successful and that you're able to enjoy your stay in the UK.