If you are a Nigerian planning to travel to the UK, you need to be aware of the various visa fees,including the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). This comprehensive guide will guide you through everything you need to know about the IHS UK visa fees for Nigerian applicants, helping you prepare for your journey effectively.
What is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)?
The Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) is a mandatory fee paid by non-European Economic Area (EEA) nationals (including Nigerians) when applying for a UK visa. IHS gives you access to the UK’s public healthcare system, the National Health Service (NHS), during your stay.
Paying into the IHS means you pay nothing when you use NHS services, with the exception of certain services such as prescription medicines, dental treatment and eye exams.
Who is required to pay IHS?
Anyone applying for a visa to stay in the UK for more than six months must pay IHS. This includes:
● Student
● Labor
● Family reunited with relatives in UK
● Anyone applying for a visa extension
● Some exemptions apply, such as those holding visitor visas, those applying for indefinite leave to remain and certain vulnerable groups.
How much does IHS cost?
IHS fees vary depending on the length of your visa and your circumstances. From 2025, the standard rates are as follows:
● Adults (18+) £624 per year
● £470 per year for students and those on a Youth Mobility Scheme visa
● £470 per year for children under 18
● To calculate your IHS, you need to multiply the annual fee by the number of years (or partial years) covered by your visa. For example, if you apply for a three-year visa as an adult, your IHS fee will be £624 x 3 = £1,872.
Payment process
IHS is paid online as part of the visa application process. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
● Start your visa application: Start your visa application on the official UK Government website.
● IHS Payment: During the application process, you will be directed to the IHS Payment page. You will need to set up an account and complete the IHS payment form.
● Payment Confirmation: After entering your details and calculating the fee, you will be prompted to make a payment. You can pay using a credit or debit card.
● Receive an IHS Reference Number: Upon successful payment, you will receive an IHS Reference Number. This number is vital and must be included with your visa application.
● Specific visa categories and IHS fees
● student visa
● For Nigerian students planning to study in the UK, IHS fees are £470 per year. If you are applying for a three-year undergraduate course, the total IHS fees will be £470 x 3 = £1,410.
Work visa
If you travel to the UK to work, IHS fees are typically £624 per year. For example, a five-year Tier 2 (General) visa costs 624 x 5 = £3,120.
Family visa
Family members joining relatives in the UK are also subject to IHS. £624 per year for adults and £470 per year for children. For example, a family of two adults and one child applying for a five-year family visa will pay (2 x £624 x 5) + (£470 x 5) = £6,170.
Short term visa
Short-term visas, such as visitor visas for stays of up to six months, are not subject to IHS. However, if you extend your stay beyond six months, the IHS will apply. Refunds and Exceptions Refund
You may be eligible for a full or partial refund from IHS if:
● Your visa application has been refused.
● You withdraw your visa application before it is processed.
● You received your visa for a shorter period than requested (you will receive a partial refund for the unused months).
● Refunds are usually processed automatically, but if you think you are eligible but have not yet received your refund, you can contact the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) service for assistance. Exceptions Certain groups are exempt from paying IHS, including:
● Applicants for indefinite residence.
● Dependents of members of the British Armed Forces.
● Nationals of countries with which the UK has a reciprocal healthcare agreement (although Nigeria is not one of these countries).
● Asylum seekers and victims of human trafficking.
● Other UK visa fees for Nigerian applicants
In addition to IHS, there are other costs to consider when applying for a UK visa from Nigeria. These include:
Visa application fee
Visa application fees vary depending on visa type and length of stay. Some common visa fees include:
● Standard visitor visa: £100, up to six months.
● Student visa (Tier 4): Visa application £363.
● Skilled Worker Visa: £610 to £1,408, depending on your circumstances.
● Family visa: £1,538 to reunite with a family member.
● Priority and Super Priority Service
● If you need to expedite your visa application, you can choose Priority or Super Priority service for an additional fee: Priority and Super Priority Service If you need to expedite your visa application, you can choose Priority or Super Priority service for an additional fee:
● Priority service: £220 (decided within five working days).
● Super Priority Service: £956 (to be decided at the end of the next working day).
● Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
● For those staying in the UK for more than six months, you will also need to obtain a
Biometric Residence Permit (BRP). This fee is included in the visa application fee.
Tips for Nigerian applicants
● Start Early: Start your application process early to avoid last-minute issues.
● Check the requirements carefully: Make sure you meet all the requirements for your specific visa category.
● Have your documents ready: Gather all necessary documents, such as passports, financial statements, and admission letters (for students).
● Seek professional assistance: If you have complex questions or need assistance, Consider consulting a visa expert or immigration attorney.
● Stay informed: Check the official UK government website regularly for any changes to visa policies or fees.
● Understanding the IHS UK visa fees for Nigerian applicants is crucial for a smooth and successful visa application process. The Immigration Health Surcharge is an important part of your overall visa cost and ensures you have access to healthcare while in the UK.
By being well prepared and understanding all the costs involved, you can complete the application process with confidence and look forward to your stay in the UK. Whether you are a student, a worker, or a family member reuniting with relatives, paying the
correcting the IHS fee is critical. Track payment steps to learn about potential refunds or waivers and make sure all other visa fees are accounted for. With this comprehensive guide, you now have the knowledge to effectively manage your IHS payments and other related expenses, paving the way for a successful trip to the UK.
