in a recent development, the Home Office is set to increase the Immigration Health Surcharge, affecting those applying for entry clearance or leave to remain from £624 per year to £1,035 per year. However, there has been a shift in the deadline for the increase.
The impending change involves an increase in the Immigration Health Surcharge, a critical aspect of immigration applications. This adjustment has been under consideration and is part of the draft Immigration (Health Charge) (Amendment) Order 2023.
Initially a date of 16th January 2024 for implementing the new surcharge may be changed Section 1(2) of the Order clarifies that the revised start date is contingent on the later of 16th January 2024 or the twenty-first day after the day on which the Order is made.
Considering the legislative process and the Order's current draft status, the earliest practical date for implementing the increased Immigration Health Surcharge is now 31st January 2024. This shift provides individuals additional time to navigate the application process before facing the heightened surcharge.
There is a transitional provision outlined in Section 4 of the Order. This provision stipulates that, for applications made before the Order comes into force existing regulations under the Immigration (Health Charge) Order 2015 will apply.
Given the extended deadline, individuals seeking entry clearance or leave to remain can submit their applications before the revised Immigration Health Surcharge takes effect. The additional time also offers a window for those looking to avoid the impact of the impending substantial surcharge increase.
The earliest date for the increased surcharge is expected to be the 31st January 2024.