Newcomers to the island will be expected to pay a health surcharge before the end of this administration next summer.
Treasury Minister Dr Alex Allinson confirmed the move during a Tynwald debate, stating that work is underway to align the Isle of Man’s immigration policies with the UK, where the charge is £1,035 per person annually.
The proposal aims to generate extra funds for the island’s health services though Dr Allinson cautioned this could deter visa applicants.
“We need to be careful it doesn’t discourage people from filling key roles in health and social care,” he said, suggesting that, like in the UK, workers in some targeted sectors could be exempt from paying.
Stalled
Julie Edge, who raised the issue as far back as 2018, questioned why progress had stalled: “Immigrants already pay a health levy to the UK—why hasn’t that been addressed?”
Jason Moorhouse pressed for clarity on the charge’s basis, while Kate Lord-Brennan urged faster action: “We can’t have uncontrolled immigration.”
Dr Allinson acknowledged the disparity with UK fees is “glaringly obvious” but stressed the need to avoid harming sectors reliant on migrant labour.
Chris Thomas criticised delays, noting the policy could have raised £600,000 annually if implemented sooner.
In response Dr Allinson pledged to present options to the Council of Ministers by June, with legislation to follow.
The surcharge will be ring-fenced for health services, Dr Allinson also confirmed, countering concerns it might offset existing funding. “The intention is that it contributes directly to health,” he said.
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