f you worked as a care worker or in any health-related role while studying in the UK, you could be eligible for an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) refund. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you through the application process:

Key Eligibility Criteria:

- Paid IHS: You must have paid the immigration health surcharge when applying for your student visa in your home country.

- Work Requirement: You must have worked for at least 6 months in a health or care sector role, averaging at least 16 hours a week. The 6 months can include paid leave, such as maternity or sick leave. If you’re a student, you’re allowed to work 20 hours a week, so you’re covered under the 16-hour rule.

- Unpaid Leave Limit: You won’t be eligible if you had more than 28 days of unpaid leave or unemployment during the 6-month period.

- Refund for Dependants: If you meet the eligibility requirements, your dependants can also claim a refund. Include them in your application. Refunds are typically processed in batches, depending on the amount you paid for IHS, so a 2-year course refund will be higher than for a 1-year course.

- Refund Processing Time: Once your application is approved, you’ll receive the refund within 6 weeks, deposited to the account or card you used to pay the health surcharge.

To Apply, You’ll Need:
- IHS number: A 12-digit number you received when you paid the surcharge.
- National Insurance number
- Email address
- Employer name
- Payslips for the 6 months you’re claiming for (upload as scans or photos)
- Bank details (if your account has changed)

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for Your IHS Refund:
1. Gather Required Documents:
Ensure you have your IHS number and payslips for the 6 months you’re claiming for. If you’re including dependants, have their details ready too.
2. Submit Your Application:
Visit the official UK government Health and Care IHS Refund Application page. Follow the instructions and complete the form.
If You No Longer Have Access to Your Payment Account:
If you used an agency or someone else to make the payment and no longer have access to the payment account, you can send an email to CustomerRefundsIHS@homeoffice.gov.uk with your updated bank account details. In your email, provide:
• Account name
• Account number
• Sort code
• IBAN
• Swift code
Include the reference number of your transaction as the title of the email for easy identification.
4. If You Haven’t Received Your Refund:
If you’ve applied but haven’t received your refund after 2 months, send a follow-up email to nhsbsa.ihsreimbursements@nhs.net. Include all necessary details of your application and politely request a follow-up.

Final Tips:
• Record Keeping: Always keep a record of your application and any correspondence with the relevant authorities.
• Contact Authorities for Clarification: If you’re unsure about any part of the process, reach out to the UK government’s support channels for assistance.

By following these steps, you can successfully apply for the IHS refund you’re entitled to as a care worker or health sector employee in the UK. With the right documents and clear communication, the process is straightforward. Claim your refund and ensure you receive the money you’re owed!

For more details and to apply, visit the official UK government website:
www.gov.uk/apply-immigration-health-surcharge-refund/healthcare-setting