UK HEALTHCARE SURCHARGE

The UK Healthcare Surcharge is a fee paid by non-EEA nationals who apply for a visa to live in the UK for more than six months. This surcharge grants access to the National Health Service (NHS) during the visa holder's stay in the UK.

Key features of the UK Healthcare Surcharge include:

• Payment of the surcharge is mandatory for most visa applications, including work visas, study visas, family visas, and settlement visas
• Visa applicants must pay the surcharge upfront for the entire duration of their visa
• The amount of the surcharge depends on the length of the visa and whether the applicant is an adult or a child
• Once paid, visa holders have access to the NHS for healthcare services on the same basis as UK residents
• The surcharge does not cover all healthcare services, such as dental treatment and prescription charges, which may incur additional costs

Eligibility for the UK Healthcare Surcharge:

• Most non-EEA nationals applying for a visa to live in the UK for more than six months are required to pay the surcharge
• Some individuals, such as asylum seekers and refugees, are exempt from paying the surcharge
• Dependent family members included in the same visa application as the main applicant must also pay the surcharge

Payment process for the UK Healthcare Surcharge:

• Visa applicants must pay the surcharge online as part of their visa application process
• The surcharge amount is calculated based on the length of the visa and whether the applicant is an adult or a child
• Once paid, applicants receive a unique reference number that must be included in the visa application
• The surcharge payment is non-refundable, even if the visa application is refused

For detailed information on the UK Healthcare Surcharge, including current rates and exemptions, applicants are advised to consult the official website of the UK Home Office or seek guidance from qualified immigration advisors.