When someone switches from one UK visa to another - for example, Student Visa → Skilled Worker Visa - there may be an overlap in IHS coverage. If this happens, UKVI may issue a partial refund for the unused IHS period from the original visa. Refunds are normally automatic but can take time to process.
✅ Who Can Get a Refund?
You may be eligible if:
💰 You paid the IHS for a previous visa application.
🔄 You later switched to another visa that also included IHS.
📅 There’s an unused period of IHS coverage from the original visa.
Tip: You only get a refund for the overlapping period - not the full original amount.
🔍 Checks Before Contacting UKVI
Before raising an enquiry, confirm all of the following:
1️⃣ Visa Has Been Granted
UKVI won’t process a refund while a new visa application is still pending.
The applicant’s immigration record must be updated to show the new visa.
Confirm that the new visa has been granted.
2️⃣ Enough Time Has Passed
Refunds typically take 6–8 weeks but may take up to 28 working days after visa approval.
UKVI will not respond to refund queries made too early.
3️⃣ Refund Hasn’t Already Been Paid
Refunds go back to the original payment method used to pay the IHS.
If the employer paid, the refund will go to the employer.
If the individual paid, it will go directly to them.
📞 When & How to Contact UKVI
If all 3 checks above are complete and no refund has been received:
Go to the UKVI refund contact form 📝
Provide:
Full name & date of birth
Home Office reference numbers (for both applications, if available)
IHS payment reference
Date the visa was granted
Confirmation that 28 working days have passed
⚠️ Important: Only the person/organisation that paid the IHS can request a refund.
🚫 No Refund Will Be Issued If:
The original visa was fully used (no overlap).
The application was withdrawn or the person left the UK voluntarily.
The overlap is less than 6 months (in some cases).
The refund has already been issued to the original payment method.
💬 Need help or an update? - Open the Support tab at the bottom right of your screen to contact our team directly.