NHS Charging Regulations Exemption for Ukrainians

Monday 24th October 2022 Written Statements

[The Minister of State, Department of Health and Social Care (Robert Jenrick)]

The Government continue to take measures in response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine to support those who ordinarily live in Ukraine who have come here to seek safety and support.



In March 2022, my predecessor amended the NHS charging regulations to allow residents of Ukraine, and their immediate family members, who are lawfully in the UK, to access NHS care in England for free, including those who transfer here under official medevac routes. This covers all potential treatment needs, except for assisted conception services, to align with the existing exemption for those whose immigration health surcharge (IHS) fees have been waived.



We committed to review this concession by 17 September. Today I am pleased to announce that my Department has completed its review and has agreed to maintain these concessions for a further 12 months at which point they will be reviewed again.



Those who will continue to benefit from this exemption include:



Anyone who uses an alternative temporary—less than six months—visa route outside of the family or sponsorship routes.

Anyone who chooses to extend their visit or seasonal worker visa temporarily, without going through the IHS system.

Anyone who is in the process of switching visas.



This Government continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with our Ukrainian friends and we are proud to maintain our support for Ukrainian residents in our country.

[HCWS340]