Staying Informed: Latest Developments in UK Immigration Health Surcharge
In this latest blog, we delve into the significant developments surrounding the postponement of the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) increase scheduled for 2024. Stay informed as we bring you the most recent UK immigration updates and insights to navigate through this vital information.
Parliamentary Debate Delays Implementation
The anticipated increase in the Immigration Health Surcharge has hit a roadblock with a Parliamentary debate scheduled for 10th January, 2024. This postponement offers a sigh of relief for individuals in the midst of visa applications, granting them more time to navigate through the impending changes.
According to the latest ministerial statement from the Home Office, the surge can only be implemented 21 days after it becomes law. Consequently, the earliest the new fee will likely come into effect is by 31st January, 2024.
Key Facts
- UK Immigration Updates: The UK government announced an increase in the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) on 19th October, 2023.
- Latest UK News: The implementation of the IHS increase, initially set for 16th January, 2024, faces a delay due to a Parliamentary debate on 10th January, 2024.
- UK Visas and Immigration: The surge in Immigration Health Surcharge can only take effect 21 days after it becomes law, potentially pushing the new fee to be enforced by 31st January, 2024.
- UK Migration: The IHS is set to rise from £624 to £1035 per year for adults and £477 to £776 per year for children.
- UK Politics: Notably, those applying for a visitor visa under the EU Settlement Scheme and for Indefinite Leave to Remain are exempt from the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Government's Perspective
In a recent statement, the UK government addressed concerns over the substantial 66% increase in the Immigration Health Surcharge. The government claims that this rise will have a 'negligible impact' on UK immigration. The official statement further notes that the increase may lead to a minor decrease in visas issued on IHS-applicable routes because of migrants being discouraged from applying to come to the UK or to extend their stay in the UK.
While there might be a marginal dip in applications initially, the overall impact on skilled individuals entering or staying in the UK is expected to be minimal. The government suggests that the brightest and best candidates are less likely to be deterred, emphasizing the continued attractiveness of the UK for skilled professionals.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the delay in the implementation of the Immigration Health Surcharge increase provides a temporary reprieve for individuals navigating the UK immigration landscape. The government's assurance of a 'negligible impact' on immigration suggests that, while there might be initial caution, the overall influx of skilled individuals is expected to remain steady. As we await the outcome of the Parliamentary debate, applicants are encouraged to proceed with their current or new applications, preferably before the end of January 2024. Stay tuned for further updates on UK immigration policies and changes.
FAQs
Q1: Who is exempt from the Immigration Health Surcharge?
A: Applicants for visitor visas under the EU Settlement Scheme and those applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain are exempt.
Q2: When is the new Immigration Health Surcharge likely to be implemented?
A: The earliest implementation is expected by 31st January, 2024, following the Parliamentary debate on 10th January.
Q3: What are the revised fees for the Immigration Health Surcharge?
A: The IHS is set to increase from £624 to £1035 per year for adults and from £477 to £776 per year for children.