Re-use IHS number

[Uniquip]

Hi All,

I am about to change sponsor and reapply for a new tier 2 visa. I have just got my tier 2 extension approved last week and will be reapplying in the next couple of weeks.

I have been told by someone who claims that she was able to re-use the IHS number from her old application (and therefore did not need to pay the IHS surcharge the second time).

Does anyone know if this is true?

Thanks,
Ben

[CR001]

Does anyone know if this is true?

No, you need to pay IHS with EACH application you make and use the new number for the new application.

[fielddrive]

I can confirm I know 1 person who has been able to use existing IHS after changing jobs. He was allowed by the case worker after checking with supervisor but note the duration of his new visa was not any longer than his existing visa.

He even offered to pay for IHS but was told it wasn't necessary.

[Uniquip]

Thanks for the reply.

How did that person get in contact with the case worker? Don't we get provided the option to pay the IHS surcharge before we decide how we want our application to be considered (standard, priority or premium).

Thanks,
Ben

[fielddrive]

Premium apt. You pay a bit more but come face 2 face with your case worker.

[Uniquip]

Thanks!

I was of the impression that you pay for IHS surcharge before the premium appointment? Maybe I'm wrong, I've not used the premium service before. So do you pay everything on the day itself?

I've not tried that route before so I'm not sure how it works.

[CR001]

Thanks!

I was of the impression that you pay for IHS surcharge before the premium appointment? Maybe I'm wrong, I've not used the premium service before. So do you pay everything on the day itself?

I've not tried that route before so I'm not sure how it works.

No, you must all fees online before ypur appoinyment or when you book your appointment. The premium centres no longer take payments on the day.

[Uniquip]

Yea so it seems its going to be impossible to get to speak to the case worker before the IHS payment.

I might try and give them a ring to ask.

[CR001]

IF there is any overpayment of IHS, you should get a refund.

An application cannot proceed online if you do not pay the IHS.

Bear in mind that the HO call centre is a third party agent and often give incorrect advice and take no responsibility for it either.

[Uniquip]

I was told by someone that they simply just imput the old IHS number into the system when they applied and that was accpeted. Not sure how risky it will be though!

[fielddrive]

Look in the end we share our experiences, however, you are still responsible for your application. If you feel comfortable paying, then I'd do that to be on the safe side. Like CR001 says, you will get a refund of any excess IHS paid.