About this calculator
The Immigration Health Surcharge Calculator estimates the IHS payment due as part of a UK visa application. It is useful for applicants, partners, families, students, and workers who need to budget before submitting an application. IHS is usually charged per person and for the length of permission requested or granted. The total can become significant when dependants are included, so estimating it early helps avoid surprises at the payment stage.
IHS methodology
The IHS estimate multiplies the relevant yearly rate by the visa length and number of applicants, with adjustments for part-years where the rules require them.
- IHS estimate = yearly IHS rate x visa years x number of people
- Total application cost = visa fees + IHS + optional services
How the calculator works
- Choose the visa type or IHS rate that applies.
- Enter the visa length or permission period.
- Add dependants where relevant.
- The calculator estimates the total surcharge for the application group.
- Use the result as a budgeting figure before checking official UKVI payment screens.
Worked examples
Single applicant
Input: One applicant, standard rate, 2.5-year visa
Result: The calculator estimates IHS for the full period using the relevant charging rules.
Applicant with dependant
Input: Main applicant plus one dependant
Result: The surcharge is estimated for each person, so the total roughly doubles.
Student rate
Input: Student applicant at student IHS rate
Result: The calculator uses the student rate where that rate applies.
What the Immigration Health Surcharge covers
The Immigration Health Surcharge is a mandatory charge for many UK visa applicants. Paying it gives access to the NHS during the period of immigration permission, broadly on a similar basis to UK residents. It is separate from the visa application fee and can be one of the largest costs in an application.
The surcharge is usually calculated per person and by length of permission. This means dependants can significantly increase the total cost, and longer visas usually cost more than shorter visas.
IHS cost components
The total IHS amount depends on several inputs. Each should be checked carefully before budgeting for an application.
- Applicant type
- Different rates can apply to standard applicants, students, children, and some other categories.
- Visa length
- The surcharge is linked to the period of permission. Part-years may be rounded or charged according to Home Office rules.
- Dependants
- Each dependant usually has a separate IHS calculation. A family application can therefore cost several times more than a single application.
- Exemptions and refunds
- Some applicants may be exempt or later receive a refund, but eligibility depends on the route, outcome, and official rules.
Budgeting for a UK visa application
IHS should be budgeted alongside the visa fee, priority service fee, biometric appointment costs, English language test, document translations, tuberculosis test where required, travel, and legal advice. The official application service is the final source for the amount due at submission.
How IHS is charged for part-years
IHS is linked to the length of permission. Visa grants are not always an exact whole number of years, so part-year charging rules can affect the total. This is one reason an estimate may differ from the official payment screen.
Applicants and dependants
Each applicant usually has their own surcharge calculation. A partner and children included as dependants can multiply the total cost quickly. Families should estimate IHS before starting the application so the payment stage does not come as a surprise.
IHS refunds and exemptions
Some applicants may be exempt from IHS, and some may receive a refund if an application is refused or less permission is granted than expected. Refund rules are specific, and the timing can vary. Always check official Home Office guidance for the route.
Common mistakes and edge cases
- Forgetting to include dependants.
- Using the wrong visa length.
- Assuming visa fee and IHS are the same payment.
- Not checking whether a reduced student or child rate applies.
- Ignoring possible refunds where leave is shorter or an application is refused.
Limitations
This calculator provides general information only and is not legal advice.
- UK immigration fees and surcharge rules can change.
- Always check the official Home Office payment page before submitting an application.
Frequently asked questions
Who pays the Immigration Health Surcharge?
Many UK visa applicants pay IHS as part of the application, unless an exemption applies.
Do dependants pay IHS?
Usually yes. Each dependant can add their own surcharge to the total.
Is IHS the same as the visa fee?
No. It is a separate charge from the visa application fee.
Can I get an IHS refund?
Refund rules depend on the application outcome and permission granted.
Can this guarantee the exact amount?
No. The official application system determines the amount due.
Related calculators
- UK Visa Fee Calculator
- Family Visa Total Cost Estimator
- Spouse Visa Financial Requirement Calculator
- ILR Eligibility Calculator