Independent COVID Review refunds
Recommendation 14 has been approved, and the Council of Ministers has agreed to refund individuals. This process will be carried out by the Department of Infrastructure. The refund is now available to those residents who returned to the island and stayed at the Comis Hotel between 15 April 2020 and 13 May 2020.
People eligible for refunds are those returning residents who stayed 14 nights in the Comis Hotel up to 13 May 2020, or for 7 nights from 6 to 13 May 2020, and who travelled by ferry on one of the following dates:
- 15 April 2020
- 22 April 2020
- 29 April 2020
- 6 May 2020
Contact refund.applications@gov.im to:
- request an application form by email or post
- submit the completed form and requested enclosures
For enquiries, contact +44 1624 686608.
Customer guidance about the refund process
How long will it take to process the refund?
Please allow up to 4 weeks between submitting your application and receiving the refund.
Are there are any circumstances in which returning residents who stayed at the Comis Hotel might not get a full refund?
Refunds are not available if you:
- stayed at the Comis Hotel on any dates other than the eligible dates listed between 15 April and 13 May 2020
- signed a loan agreement, but did not have to pay back the loan because you were on low-income benefits
- had a partial refund due to being able to leave the Comis Hotel once the regulations changed on 13 May 2020
- received any other type of refund, which would be deducted from any sum owed
- received an insurance payment covering the cost of accommodation at the Comis Hotel
I started my stay at the Comis on or after 13 May 2020. Am I eligible for a refund?
On 13 May the regulations changed and returning residents were able to stay elsewhere. The refund relates only to Recommendation 14 of the Covid Review, which sets out that those required to stay at the Comis Hotel should be eligible for a refund.
There were other expenses I had to cover before being able to get on a ferry for repatriation – are these covered as well?
No – the recommendation in the Covid Review that has been accepted by Government is to refund the charges imposed on returning residents who were required to stay at the Comis Hotel.
I paid for other food or facilities at the Comis – are these included (e.g extra food, Wifi, laundry)
The refund relates to the total charged upfront or via loan agreement. Other costs are not included. The refund only applies to charges for full board, i.e. accommodation and catering at the Comis Hotel. There is no agreed recommendation in the refund process for additional expenses, which may have been incurred by residents regardless of where they stayed.
I couldn't collect my pet from pet accommodation and was charged extra. Can the refund cover this?
Any additional expenses such as costs incurred for extending accommodation for your pet (e.g. kennels / cattery) is not included.
Why is there an application process? If you already have my information are you able to send me a refund?
The information that we hold is now over 4 years old and addresses from this time can't necessarily be relied upon to contact individuals. We do not hold any bank details and therefore request that those meeting the criteria provide these along with other identifying information. The application process means that we can ensure only those eligible are receiving the refund.
I paid for others to stay at the Comis Hotel e.g. partner, child or other family member. Will I receive the refund for everyone in my party?
Please ensure that you include the names of everyone whose stay you funded in your application form. They should not submit their own application.
There was no charge for any babies who stayed with their parent(s). Charges made for children were charged at half the full rate, so a refund will be due if a child stayed with you.
I don't have a passport or driving licence – what else can you accept?
Photo identification showing your date of birth is acceptable. If you don't have a passport or driving licence, a copy of your birth certificate, a recent utility bill, or student identity card will be accepted.
I've changed my name since April/May 2020 – what identification document can you accept?
If your name has changed since, you will need to send us a copy of the relevant document showing your name change. This could include a copy of your change of name certificate or marriage certificate. If you're unsure what will be accepted, please contact us to discuss your circumstances, as we know there are many reasons why someone might have changed their name in the last few years.
I am the executor of an eligible resident's estate as they have since died. How can I get a refund for the estate?
Please complete the form and include a copy of Probate or the Will showing your appointment as Executor. If you're the personal representative or administrator for someone who has died, please send in the evidence for this.
Any refund will be issued by cheque to 'the [executor/ personal representative / administrator] of the estate of [named person]'.
I've forgotten some of the details or don't have records. Can I still apply for a refund?
Please complete everything that you can and supply any documentation possible. Our team will assess your application based on what you have provided and contact you if there is anything further needed.
I can't print the form out. Please can you post one to me?
Please call the contact number +44 1624 686608 for enquiries or email
refund.applications@gov.im and let us know your address.
