In the March 2020 budget, the UK Government confirmed plans to increase the Immigration Health Surcharge (“NHS Surcharge”). The current charge is set at £400 per year for most applicants, with students and some Tier 5 applicants paying £300 per year. The Immigration (Health Charge) (Amendment) Order 2020 has now been passed, confirming that these charges will be increased to:
- £624 for all applications for entry clearance or leave to remain
- £470 for all other applicants, those under 18 years of age (and their dependants), students and some Tier 5 visa holders
The increased fees will apply automatically to any applications submitted to the Home Office on or after 27 October 2020 as well as to the UK’s new Points-Based System as it begins to take effect at the end of the year. Consequently, EU citizens wishing to come to the UK on a long-term basis will be subject to this levy for the first time from 1 January 2021.
As expected, those applying under the new Health and Care Visa will not incur any NHS Surcharge fees as part of their visa application for entry clearance or leave to remain in the UK.
Should you have any questions in respect of this change please do contact your usual Magrath Sheldrick LLP contact.