Health insurance for international students

If you wish to live in the UK without worrying about medical bills, having health insurance for international students is crucial. Over the years, the number of international students in the UK has grown rather quickly, and it is still rising now. Apart from having one of the top education systems in the world, this nation is one of the most sought-after study destinations for international students and is also the location of the renowned national health system known as the National Health Service (NHS).

In the UK, the total number of Tier 4 (supported study) visas issued as of September 2019 was 276,889, the most since 2011. The UK is home to some of the best universities in the world, known for their top-notch instruction and world-class curriculum. Additionally, overseas students in the UK benefit from a multicultural and friendly environment where they are free to mingle, pursue their academic interests, and generally take in the sights. Let's learn more about international students' health insurance in the UK so we can completely enjoy our time there.

Health Law in the UK

Cost of health insurance in the UK

For the duration that the visa is issued, non-EEA international students must pay an annual extra. For periods longer than six months, the total annual cost is £300. The surcharge will also apply to dependents. If you pay this premium together with your visa application, you will receive a refund if your request is denied (not the application fee). Health insurance for foreign students in the UK costs £470 a year. When you apply for a student visa, you must pay both the visa fee and what is known as an Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). If you have dependents, you must also pay a separate IHS for each one of them.

Benefits of health insurance in the UK

One of the most well-known health insurance programs in the world is the National Health Service, as was already noted. Access to the NHS is also available to international students, but only if their study program is six months or longer. If not, they will need to look into other private insurance options. Numerous benefits are covered by the National Health Service; more specifically, you will receive the same treatments as citizens of the UK. The NHS provides free emergency care, psychiatric care, GP (General Practitioner) visits, and more. Look below:

Services are provided without charge if you qualify for the NHS
Visiting your doctor

Emergency or accident services at hospitals
Your GP has suggested hospitalization
pregnancy services
Services for contraception

However, you will have to pay for any prescribed medications as well as other GP services like travel shots, dental work, and eye tests.

How to apply for health insurance for international students in the UK?

We advise that you register with a GP (general practitioner) as soon as you arrive in the UK. A GP deals with the majority of basic health issues, making it simpler for you to get medical help if you ever need it. If it makes you feel more comfortable, most GP offices will accept requests from patients to see a specific gender of a medical professional.

Requirements for applying for health insurance in the UK

The National Healthcare System, or NHS for short, is one of the most well-known healthcare systems in the world and depending on how long you plan to remain there, you might be eligible to use it. Even if you have access to the NHS, having international private medical insurance is advised to make sure you get the care you need when you need it.

The requirements for a student studying in the UK are:

Tier 4 General Student Visa (more than 6 months) - you can access the NHS
Tier 4 General Student Visa (under 6 months) - you will need private medical insurance
Student Visitor - you need to take out private health insurance>

Why is it important to get health insurance?

First of all, having health insurance gives you access to first-rate care in clinics, private offices, ERs, and other places. You will have a more relaxing vacation in the UK because you won't have to worry about paying for medical expenses should something happen.

In addition, having health insurance is a prerequisite for obtaining a visa everywhere, not only in the UK. Therefore, obtaining health insurance is crucial, whether it comes from the NHS or another private source.

Residents can also access health insurance, so it's not just for international students who require it. The fact that health insurance guarantees students won't have to worry about medical bills when they are away from their home country and family, however, is one of the reasons it is particularly crucial for foreign students.

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