Welcome to UK Immigration Navigator, In this article, we focus on a significant development – the impending increase in the UK Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) in 2024. As individuals embark on their immigration journey to the United Kingdom, it’s essential to have a reliable guide.
The UK Immigration Navigator is a valuable tool for individuals seeking clarity on the implications of the IHS increase. Its interactive features guide users through the complexities of the surcharge, offering real-time calculations based on visa types and durations. Navigating through the platform ensures a well-informed approach to the immigration process.
Table of Contents
What is a UK Immigration Health Surcharge?
The Immigration Health Surcharge is an important part of the UK immigration process, requiring applicants to contribute to the National Health Service (NHS). It reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring that those coming to the UK make a fair and equitable financial contribution to the healthcare system.
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Impact on Visa Applicants
Understanding the tangible impact of the increased IHS is paramount for visa applicants. The UK Immigration Navigator provides insights into how individuals across various visa categories will be affected. Real-life examples illustrate the financial implications, enabling applicants to plan accordingly.
UK Immigration Health Surcharge changes set to take effect
Parliament has recently approved significant increases to the Immigration Health Surcharge, set to take effect in the coming weeks. To avoid these higher fees, individuals planning to apply for UK immigration should ensure their application is submitted by 5 February 2024.
The Immigration (Health Charge) (Amendment) Order 2023 has received approval from both houses of Parliament as of 15 January 2024. Following this approval, there will be a brief period before the Order becomes effective, possibly just a few days. The increased charges will be applicable no earlier than 6 February 2024, as they take effect 21 days after the Order is made.
The updated annual rates vary depending on the immigration category:
- Student, Student dependant, Youth Mobility Scheme, and children under 18 on the application date: £470 before the rise, £776 after.
- All other applicants: £624 before the rise, £1,035 after.
For example, the impact on a Skilled Worker with a five-year Certificate of Sponsorship is outlined below:
- The main applicant only: £3,432 before the rise, £5,692.50 after.
- Main applicant with partner dependant: £6,864 before the rise, £11,385 after.
- Main applicant with partner dependant and one child: £9,449 before the rise, £15,653 after.
- Main applicant with partner dependant and two children: £12,034 before the rise, £19,921 after.
It’s important to note that the Health Surcharge is calculated based on the granted immigration permission, rounded up in six-month increments. Sponsored workers pay for slightly longer than the Certificate of Sponsorship duration. The illustration assumes dependants apply simultaneously with the primary applicant.
Deciding whether to apply before the rise depends on factors such as exemption eligibility, certificate of sponsorship availability, sponsored role start date (within three months of application), and how timing may impact the expiration date, affecting settlement or further extension considerations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: When will the increased Immigration Health Surcharge come into effect?
The new charges will take effect no earlier than 6 February 2024. They are set to be implemented 21 days after the approval of the Immigration (Health Charge) (Amendment) Order 2023, which was sanctioned by Parliament on 15 January 2024.
Q2: How much is the Health Surcharge before and after the increase for different applicant types?
Before the increase, the annual rates vary based on the immigration category. For instance, the charge for Students, Student dependents, Youth Mobility schemes, and children under 18 is £470 before the rise and £776 after. For all other applicants, it is £624 before the rise and £1,035 after.
Q3: What is the impact of a Health Surcharge for a Skilled Worker with a five-year Certificate of Sponsorship?
The impact on a Skilled Worker with a five-year Certificate of Sponsorship varies. For the main applicant only, the charge is £3,432 before the rise and £5,692.50 after. Additional charges apply if there are dependants, such as a partner and children.
Q4: How is the Health Surcharge calculated for sponsored workers?
The Health Surcharge is calculated based on the length of granted immigration permission, rounded up in six-month increments. Sponsored workers pay for a slightly longer period than their Certificate of Sponsorship duration. The illustration assumes that dependants apply at the same time as the main applicant.
Q5: Is it necessary to apply before the rise to avoid the increased charges?
To avoid the higher charges, individuals are encouraged to submit their UK immigration applications by 5 February 2024. The timing of the application depends on various factors, including exemption eligibility, certificate of sponsorship availability, sponsored role start date, and potential impacts on the permission expiration date.
Q6: What factors should be considered when deciding whether to apply before the rise?
Several factors should be taken into account, such as exemption eligibility, certificate of sponsorship availability, the start date of a sponsored role (within three months of application), and how the timing may affect the expiration date. Considerations for settlement or further extension should also be factored in when making this decision.
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