Exemption from N.H.S. Charges – Non EEA Seafarers

Our Ref: HSR/1/10
Head Office Circular: NP/211/18
16th October 2018
To: The Secretary
ALL BRANCHES
REGIONAL COUNCILS

Dear Colleague,

Exemption from N.H.S. Charges – Non EEA Seafarers

Concern has being raised across the maritime sector over an immigration health surcharge as a result of the UK Immigration Act 2014. Changes were made to the way NHS charges were made for overseas visitors.

The matter has been placed infront of your National Executive committee and they have agreed the following decision;

“That we note the documentation on file and the conformation that non EEA Seafarers employer is now liable for the full cost of any medical treatment under the NHS. In line with immigration health surcharge that was introduced in 2015 and came into effect in April 2018.

This means that Non EEA Seafarers working within the UK shall receive medical treatment, both urgent and non-urgent medical treatment shall be paid for by the employer

All Branches to be informed”.

I am in the process of carrying out that decision.

Yours sincerely

Mick Cash
General Secretary