Spouse Visa Extension NHS Fee: What You Need to Know

The NHS (National Health Service) fee for extending a spouse visa in the UK is an essential component of the immigration process. This fee, known as the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), is required to access the National Health Service during your stay. If you are applying to extend your spouse visa, understanding the cost and how it impacts your overall application is crucial.

Understanding the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

The Immigration Health Surcharge is a mandatory fee that must be paid by individuals applying for a visa that lasts more than six months. This fee is designed to help cover the cost of healthcare services provided by the NHS. It applies to various visa types, including spouse visa extensions.

Current Fee Structure

As of 2024, the Immigration Health Surcharge for extending a spouse visa is set at £624 per year. This fee is paid upfront for the duration of your visa extension. For instance, if you are applying for a 2.5-year extension, you would need to pay £1,560 (2.5 years x £624).

Why Is the IHS Fee Important?

1. Access to Healthcare: Paying the IHS fee ensures that you can access NHS services without additional charges. This includes GP visits, hospital treatments, and emergency services.

2. Requirement for Visa: The fee is a mandatory part of the visa application process. Without payment, your application will not be processed.

3. Cost Calculation: The total amount of the IHS fee depends on the length of the visa extension. Applicants must calculate the total based on the number of years their visa will be extended.

Fee Payment Process

1. Calculate Your Fee: Determine the length of your visa extension and calculate the IHS fee based on the current rate of £624 per year.

2. Make Payment: The IHS fee is paid online as part of the visa application process. Ensure that you have the correct amount available before starting the application.

3. Confirmation: After payment, you will receive a confirmation of your payment. This confirmation is required to complete your visa application.

Example Calculation

To illustrate, let’s consider an example. If you are applying for a spouse visa extension for 2.5 years, the calculation would be:

• Annual Fee: £624
• Extension Duration: 2.5 years
• Total Fee: 2.5 x £624 = £1,560

Additional Considerations

• Fee Increases: The IHS fee is subject to change, so it’s important to check the latest rates on the official UK government website before making payment.

• Exemptions: Certain visa applicants may be exempt from the IHS fee, including those applying for visas in specific categories or those from countries with bilateral agreements with the UK.

• Refunds: In some cases, if your visa application is rejected or withdrawn, you may be eligible for a refund of the IHS fee. Check the refund policy on the UK government’s website for detailed information.

Summary

The NHS fee for extending a spouse visa, also known as the Immigration Health Surcharge, is an essential part of the UK visa application process. It ensures that you have access to healthcare services throughout your stay in the UK. By understanding the fee structure, payment process, and considerations, you can better prepare for your visa extension application.