A Guide to UK Health Insurance for International Students

Starting your UK student visa journey is like embarking on an exciting trip, with new locations to discover, new friends to make, and a world of information waiting to be explored! But, before you start reading, let's talk about something equally important: your health. Navigating the healthcare landscape may appear to be like deciphering a treasure map, but don't worry! Understanding UK health services and insurance may be an adventure in and of itself, just like locating the finest place for fish and chips. So buckle up, because we're going to reveal the secrets of staying healthy and insured while studying in the UK!

While the NHS can meet a variety of health needs, considering extra health insurance through the UK Health Insurance for International Students umbrella can provide additional benefits. These additional plans often cover services like dental care, optical treatments, or expedited access to specialised treatments, complementing the NHS coverage. Amber specialises in guiding individuals residing in the UK, providing insights into UK Health Insurance for international students. 

It empowers students and residents by its comprehensive understanding of the NHS coverage and the potential benefits of supplementary UK Health Insurance for international students. We at Amber guide individuals to make informed decisions about their healthcare needs while navigating life in the UK.

Importance of UK Health Insurance for International Students

Unlike choosing a suitable subject of your choice in your respective university, UK health insurance for international students is crucial as it provides a hassle-free life for them. It is crucial to how well-mannered a student's mental and physical state is portrayed, which is why UK universities tend to ensure and motivate each student to understand its importance. These crucial benefits of UK health insurance are:

1. To acquire top-notch health insurance for a UK student visa in high-class private and public hospitals.

2. Grant yourself a comfortable, peaceful-minded life in the United Kingdom.

3. Although being far from home, students can benefit from medical costs that suit their needs.

UK Health Insurance Coverage For International Students

Besides what UK health insurance coverage for international students covers, there are some instances like Ski or Mountain rescue, treatment in a private medical facility, or being flown back to the UK is not included in the UK Health Insurance coverage. Regardless of it, the coverage of UK Health Insurance for international students benefits the most:

How Does the NHS Work for International Students in the UK?

The NHS is the UK’s public healthcare system that offers many services for free or at a low cost. If you are an international student who wants to use the NHS, here are some key points to remember:

1. Pay the IHS: This is a fee that you have to pay when you apply for your student visa. It costs £470 per year and it gives you access to most NHS services for free.

2. Register with a GP: This is a doctor who can provide basic healthcare and refer you to other specialists. You should register with a GP near your university as soon as possible after arriving in the UK . You may need to show your biometric residence permit to prove your eligibility.

3. Make an appointment: If you need to see a doctor, you should call your GP or health centre and book an appointment. You may have an online, phone or face-to-face consultation. If you have an emergency, call 999 or go to the nearest A&E department.

4. Pay for some services: Some NHS services are not free, such as dental care, eye care and prescriptions. The cost may vary depending on where you are registered. You may be eligible for free or reduced-cost services if you meet certain criteria.

5. Get Covid-19 tests, treatment and vaccination for free: The NHS provides free Covid-19 tests, treatment and vaccination for everyone in the UK, regardless of their immigration status or IHS payment. You do not need to show any proof of identity or eligibility to access these services.

Benefits of NHS Support for Students

Suppose any international student is pursuing their graduation or post-graduation in the UK, Wales, or Scotland for more than six months. In that case, the National Health Service (NHS) serves every international student according to their emergency scenarios and medical needs. The NHS provides a wide range of services, including GP visits, hospital treatment, and emergency care. Here are some additional benefits that international students can avail of under the NHS:  

1. Mental health support: 

The NHS offers an array of mental health support services for international students in the UK with counselling, therapy, and specialised programs aiding cultural adjustment, stress management, and homesickness, alongside 24/7 emergency helplines, access to online resources, multilingual assistance, and referrals for specialised care, ensuring a comprehensive approach to mental well-being during their stay.

2. Vaccinations:

 International students are eligible to receive free vaccinations under the NHS. Aside from vaccinations against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, and meningitis, the NHS provides international students in the UK with access to a variety of other essential vaccinations, including COVID-19 immunisation, tuberculosis screening and vaccinations, hepatitis B and HPV vaccinations, travel-related immunisations, and seasonal flu shots, ensuring comprehensive healthcare coverage.

3. Prescriptions:

 In addition to free prescriptions for prescribed medications, international students in the UK also have access to a wide array of vaccinations provided by the NHS at no cost. These vaccinations encompass essential immunisations against diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, meningitis, COVID-19, tuberculosis, hepatitis B, HPV, travel-related illnesses, and seasonal flu, ensuring healthcare coverage inclusive of preventive measures and necessary treatments.

4. Emergency care:

 International students can access emergency care services provided by the NHS free of charge in the same way as permanent UK residents. These emergency services can provide treatment for minor illnesses and injuries like bruises and rashes. 

Core Points Of Understanding UK Health Insurance

International students need to familiarise themselves with the healthcare system in the UK, understand their eligibility for NHS services, and consider additional insurance options based on their individual healthcare needs. These core values will let you understand how UK healthcare can guide you with care:

1. National Health Service (NHS) Coverage: In the UK, most international students studying for more than six months are eligible for free healthcare through the NHS. To access NHS services, students need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their visa application. This charge allows them access to NHS services on the same basis as UK residents.

2. Registering with a General Practitioner (GP): Upon arrival, students should register with a local GP (doctor) clinic. They can do this by visiting the GP surgery and filling out a registration form. The GP will provide them with a medical card and offer access to various healthcare services.

3. European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC): If the student is from an EU/EEA country or Switzerland, they might be eligible for an EHIC or GHIC card, which offers access to reduced-cost or free healthcare when travelling within the European Union.

4. Understanding Coverage: International students must understand what is covered by the NHS and any additional insurance they may have. It includes knowing about copayments, coverage limits, and how to access healthcare services in case of emergencies.

Requirements To Apply For a UK Health Insurance

If you are an international student who wants to study in the UK, you may need to apply for a UK health insurance to get access to the National Health Service (NHS) or a private health provider. Here are the steps to apply for a UK health insurance:

1. Check your visa type and duration: The type of health insurance you need depends on the visa you are applying for and how long you plan to stay in the UK. If your visa is for 6 months or longer, you can apply for the NHS through the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). If your visa is for less than 6 months, you need to get private health insurance.

2. Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS): The IHS is a fee that you pay as part of your visa application to access the NHS. The IHS costs £470 per year for students and £624 per year for other visa types. You also have to pay the IHS for each dependent that will join you in the UK. You can pay the IHS online or by post and you will receive an IHS reference number.

3. UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC): You can apply for a UK GHIC if you are a UK resident and you do not have rights under the EU Withdrawal Agreement. You can apply for a UK EHIC if you have rights under the EU Withdrawal Agreement. You can apply for these cards online or by post and you will receive them by mail within 15 working days.

4. Get private health insurance: If you are not eligible for the NHS, the UK GHIC or the UK EHIC, you need to get private health insurance from a reputable provider. This will cover your medical expenses in the UK and abroad. You should compare different plans and prices and choose the one that suits your needs and budget.

Health insurance as an international student in the UK is a vital aspect of your academic journey. Understanding the options available, whether through NHS coverage or private insurance plans, is crucial in safeguarding your well-being during your stay. The health insurance fee for UK student visas is not just a mandatory requirement; it's an investment in your peace of mind and access to quality healthcare. Remember, it's a proactive step towards your health and security while pursuing education in the UK. Stay informed, stay covered, and prioritise your health.