How to Register with the NHS as a New Immigrant in the UK

The NHS (National Health Service) provides free healthcare to everyone in the UK — including immigrants on visas. If you are on a visa of 6 months or more, you have already paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your visa application and are entitled to the same NHS services as UK citizens. Here is everything you need to know about registering and using the NHS.

Are immigrants entitled to free NHS care?

Yes — if you are lawfully resident in the UK on a visa of more than 6 months (such as a Skilled Worker Visa, Student Visa, or Family Visa), you are entitled to free NHS treatment. You paid the Immigration Health Surcharge with your visa application specifically for this reason. Visitors on short-term visas (under 6 months) are generally charged for non-emergency NHS treatment.

• Skilled Worker Visa holders: full NHS access, same as UK citizens
• Student Visa holders: full NHS access (IHS included in visa cost)
• Family Visa holders: full NHS access
• Short-term visitors (under 6 months): charged for most NHS services
• Emergency treatment is always free, regardless of immigration status
• Asylum seekers: free NHS access while claim is pending

How to register with an NHS GP (doctor)

To access most NHS services, you first need a registered GP (General Practitioner). Your GP is your first point of contact for all non-emergency healthcare. Registration is free and you do not need to give a reason for choosing a particular practice.

• Find GP practices accepting new patients at nhs.uk/find-a-gp
• Check the practice is in your area — GPs can refuse registration if you live outside their catchment area
• Visit the practice or complete their online registration form
• You will need: proof of address (bank statement, utility bill), proof of identity (passport or BRP/eVisa), and NHS number if you have one
• You do not legally need to show ID — GPs cannot refuse to register you based on immigration status
• Registration usually takes a few days; you then receive a letter with your NHS number

What documents do you need to register?

By law, GP practices cannot demand proof of identity or immigration status before registering you. However, most practices will ask for documents to set up your records. In practice, having these ready makes registration smoother.

• Proof of address: bank statement, council tax bill, or tenancy agreement
• Proof of identity: passport, BRP, or driving licence
• Previous medical records if available (from your home country GP)
• NHS number (if you have been registered before)
• Your date of birth and full name

NHS 111 — the non-emergency helpline

NHS 111 is a free 24/7 phone and online service for when you need medical help fast but it is not a life-threatening emergency. Call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk. They will assess your symptoms and direct you to the right service — GP, walk-in centre, pharmacy, or A&E.

Understanding NHS services as a new arrival

• GP (General Practitioner): your first stop for most health issues. Book an appointment; some practices now offer same-day urgent slots
• A&E (Accident & Emergency): for life-threatening emergencies only. Dial 999 or go to the nearest A&E
• NHS 111: for urgent but non-life-threatening situations — available 24/7 by phone or online
• Walk-in centres and urgent care centres: no appointment needed for minor injuries and illnesses
• Pharmacy: pharmacists can advise on minor ailments and prescriptions. Many medicines available over the counter
• NHS Dentist: separate registration required. Find an NHS dentist at nhs.uk/find-a-dentist. NHS dental charges apply (£26.80–£256.50 per treatment band in 2025)
• Mental health services: GP can refer you. Some areas have direct-access services like IAPT for talking therapies