Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): A Guide for Swiss Nationals and Residents of Switzerland

In This Article

1. Introduction

2. Why Do I Have to Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)?

3. Who Needs to Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)?

4. Am I Exempt From Paying the Immigration Health Surcharge?

5. How Much Is the Immigration Health Surcharge?

6. How Do I Pay the IHS?

7. What Happens if I Don’t Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge?

8. Can I Get an IHS Refund if My Visa Application Is Refused?

9. How Long Will My IHS Refund Take?

10. Contact Our UK Immigration Lawyers in Switzerland

1. Introduction

If you’re a Swiss national or resident of Switzerland planning to apply for a UK visa, understanding the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is crucial. The IHS is an additional charge required for most UK visa applications. Introduced in 2015, it funds the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), giving migrants access to healthcare during their stay.

This guide explains why the IHS is required, who needs to pay it, how much it costs, and how to secure a refund if your visa application is unsuccessful.

2. Why Do I Have to Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)?

Swiss nationals and residents applying for UK visas are required to pay the IHS as part of their application unless exempt. The charge allows you to access NHS services from the moment your visa is granted until it expires.

3. Who Needs to Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)?

If you’re applying for a UK visa from Switzerland and your visa is for more than six months, you’ll likely need to pay the IHS. This applies to most visa types, including work, study, and family visas. Short-term visas like Visitor Visas (less than six months) do not require IHS payment, but NHS services will not be free.

Each applicant, including dependants, must pay the IHS. Payment is required upfront for the entire duration of the visa, even if you have private health insurance.

4. Am I Exempt From Paying the Immigration Health Surcharge?

Some exemptions apply, including:

• Swiss nationals eligible for a Frontier Worker Permit with an S1 certificate.

• Students with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) issued in Switzerland (if they meet specific conditions).

• Applicants to schemes such as the Ukraine Extension Scheme.

For most Swiss residents applying for UK visas, the IHS will be a required payment.

5. How Much Is the Immigration Health Surcharge?

From 6 February 2024, the rates are:

• £1,035 per person per year for most applicants.

• £776 per year for students, Youth Mobility applicants, and children under 18.

The charge is calculated based on the duration of your visa and rounded up to the nearest six months.

6. How Do I Pay the IHS?

Payment is made online during your visa application. You will receive an IHS reference number, which is required to complete your visa submission. Ensure you use a valid debit or credit card to avoid delays.

7. What Happens if I Don’t Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge?

Failure to pay the IHS will render your visa application invalid. UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) may request payment, but if it is not made within the specified timeframe, your application will not be considered.

8. Can I Get an IHS Refund if My Visa Application Is Refused?

If your visa is refused, voided, or withdrawn, you are entitled to a full IHS refund. Partial refunds are available in certain situations, such as if your visa is granted for a shorter duration than expected.

9. How Long Will My IHS Refund Take?

Refunds are typically processed within 28 days of a visa refusal. However, the process can vary, particularly if you appeal or request an administrative review.

10. Contact Our UK Immigration Lawyers in Switzerland

For tailored advice on the Immigration Health Surcharge or assistance with your UK visa application, contact our UK immigration lawyers in Switzerland. Call us on +41 21 588 07 70 or get in touch via our contact form. We specialise in helping Swiss nationals and residents navigate the complexities of UK immigration requirements.