For many Nigerians relocating to the United Kingdom with their spouses and children, the cost of obtaining a visa goes far beyond application fees. One of the largest expenses is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), a mandatory payment that many applicants only fully appreciate when calculating the total cost of moving.
The surcharge is paid upfront as part of most visa applications and can significantly increase relocation costs, especially for families with multiple dependants. Although paying the IHS gives eligible migrants access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS), many newcomers are surprised to learn that they may also pay taxes that help to fund the NHS after they begin working.
In this article, Tribune Online explains what Nigerians should know about the Immigration Health Surcharge before relocating to the UK.
Immigration Health Surcharge is compulsory for most visa applicants
The Immigration Health Surcharge is a mandatory fee paid by most people applying for a UK visa that allows them to stay in the country for more than six months. The fee must usually be paid before a visa application can be processed. The amount payable depends on the type of visa, the applicant’s age and the length of stay in the UK. According to the UK government, applicants normally pay the surcharge in full for the duration of their visa when submitting their application.
Every dependant may attract separate surcharge
One of the biggest financial challenges for families is that the surcharge generally applies to each eligible applicant. This means a principal applicant, spouse and children may each have to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge if they require it under the immigration rules.
As family size increases, the total amount payable can rise substantially because each person’s application is assessed separately. For this reason, many families find that the healthcare surcharge becomes one of the largest upfront relocation expenses.
Payment is made before visa is approved
Unlike some government fees that are paid after approval, the Immigration Health Surcharge is normally paid during the visa application process.
Applicants who do not complete the required payment where applicable may not be able to proceed with their application. This means families need to budget for the surcharge well before travelling to the UK.
Paying surcharge does not replace taxes
Many newcomers are surprised to discover that paying the Immigration Health Surcharge does not exempt them from paying taxes once they begin working in the UK. Employees who meet the relevant thresholds may still pay Income Tax and National Insurance contributions under UK tax laws. National Insurance helps to fund several state benefits and contributes to the financing of public services, including aspects of healthcare.
Some visa categories are exempt
Not every migrant is required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge.
According to the UK government, applicants under certain visa categories, including the Health and Care Worker visa, are exempt from paying the surcharge if they meet the eligibility requirements. Other exemptions and refunds may also apply in specific situations outlined in the immigration rules.
Budget carefully before relocating
Relocating to another country involves far more than airfare and accommodation.
Families should calculate visa fees, the Immigration Health Surcharge, proof of funds where required, accommodation costs and other settlement expenses before submitting applications. Having a realistic financial plan can reduce pressure during the relocation process.