A health levy on newcomers to the island will ensure those who can use NHS services have made a fair contribution, the Treasury Minister has said.
Politician approved plans to introduce an Immigration Health Charge during Tynwald’s July sitting, aligning with UK policy through an Order in Council.
Treasury Minister Dr Alex Allinson stated: “The immigration health surcharge will ensure those applying to live, study or work here make a fair contribution to the NHS services available to them.”
The charge will mirror UK rates while allowing local exemptions.
Fairness
Health Minister Claire Christian, who first proposed the measure in 2023, said: “This is about fairness and sustainability. Migrants using our health services should help fund them, just as residents do through taxation.”
On funding allocation, Dr Allinson gave specific assurances: “As the order is developed, and I will share that with honourable members, we will specify exactly where the money goes.
“The intention would be that, obviously there will be some administrative costs, but then the bulk of this money should go to the NHS, should go to the public health and social care to invest in those services.”
General Revenue?
Chris Thomas sought clarification on the funding mechanism, asking: “Can the minister confirm this is effectively general reserve, but somehow he’s earmarking it and reserving it for health, even though it’s going into the general revenue, and consequently the general reserve, if it’s saved?”
Dr Allinson responded by highlighting the legal framework: “One of the parts of the extension of the UK legislation, section 38 does specifically say sums paid by virtue of an order under the section must be paid into the consolidated fund or be applied in such other ways as the order may specify.”
Julie Edge also questioned enforcement: “How will entitlement to free healthcare be policed?”
Dr Allinson acknowledged practical challenges but highlighted Manx Care’s verification systems.
Lawrie Hooper raised concerns about deterring migrants, citing estimates of 60-70 fewer arrivals annually.
Dr Allinson told him that the government will “tailor exemptions to balance economic needs with Common Travel Area integrity”.
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