Visa and Immigration Health Surcharge Reimbursement Scheme

This scheme is available for international staff across all job families and is effective for claims from 1 January 2026. There are separate schemes for support with removal and relocation expenses.

Loughborough University offers financial support for the immigration-related costs of international staff incurred during their employment at the University. Reimbursement of specific costs, including visas and the immigration health surcharge cost is available according to the terms of the Scheme.

An interest free loan is available for other immigration-related expenses, including those associated with dependents, in addition to the standard Relocation Reimbursement Scheme.

 

The University will reimburse the visa application and immigration health surcharge costs up to £4,000 for the employee for the following visas:

  • Skilled worker
  • Global Talent, including the endorsement fee

The reimbursement applies to prospective employees who are offered, accept and commence appointments of at least one year and who are relocating from outside the UK to join the university.

The following items are not covered by this scheme:

  • Regular, priority or premium postage service fees
  • English language test fees
  • UK ENIC Certificate fees
  • Life in the UK test fees
  • Visa costs other than for Skilled Worker or Global Talent
  • Indefinite Leave to Remain, British Citizenship or Naturalisation fees
  • Visa costs for non-employees or dependents
  • Unsuccessful visa application costs
  • Retrospective visa application costs
  • Visa or health surcharge costs for positions under one year
  • Visa extension costs

 

All claims needs to be made using the Form and will be subject to the HR department approvals process.

Employees are expected to meet costs in the first instance and provide a paid invoice or receipts. 

Reimbursement will only be made upon provision of relevant receipted invoices and in line with the university's financial procedures.

Claims should be received by HR Services by the 5th day of the month, for payment at the end of that month, subject to the approval process.

No claim will be considered until after the start date of employment

Any deviation from the claims process will be at the discretion of the Director of Human Resources.

Once your application has been approved, the reimbursement will be processed via payroll and will be visible on your next payslip. It is important to note the UK tax authority (HMRC) classifies the reimbursements of visa/surcharge fees as earnings, so you will need to be on the University's payroll to be reimbursed.

Relocation Expenses Form