Healthcare
NHS & Healthcare in the UK
Register with a GP, understand what's free, and find mental health support.
Find your NHS GP
Search by postcode — registration is free →
How to register with a GP
Find a GP practice near you
Go to nhs.uk/find-a-gp, enter your postcode, and filter for practices accepting new patients. Try a few — lists change weekly.
Complete the GMS1 registration form
Either fill in the practice's online form or pick up a paper GMS1 form at the reception desk. Takes 5 minutes.
Bring photo ID if asked
Not legally required, but some practices ask for a passport or BRP. Proof of address (utility bill, tenancy agreement) may also be requested.
Receive your NHS number
You'll get an NHS number by letter (usually 1–2 weeks). Keep it safe — you'll need it for hospital appointments, prescriptions, and specialist referrals.
ℹ️ GPs cannot legally refuse to register you based on nationality or immigration status.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)
If your visa is 6+ months, you've already paid for NHS care
The IHS (approx. £1,035/year in 2026) was charged when you applied for your visa. This entitles you to free:
- ✓ GP consultations
- ✓ Hospital treatment & A&E
- ✓ Maternity care
- ✓ Mental health services (IAPT / Talking Therapies)
Not covered by IHS:
Prescriptions (£9.90/item unless exempt) · NHS dental (Band charges apply) · Eye tests (£25–£30 unless exempt)
Emergency care (A&E, 999) is always free for everyone regardless of visa or IHS status.
Prescription costs & exemptions
Standard cost: £9.90 per item (2026)
One prescription charge = one item, even if the pharmacist dispenses multiple boxes
Free if you are:
- • Under 16 years old
- • Age 60 or over
- • Pregnant or had a baby in the last 12 months
- • Certain medical conditions (diabetes, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, and more)
- • On qualifying income-based benefits (Universal Credit, Income Support, etc.)
- • War pension exemption certificate holder
💡 Prepayment Certificate (PPC)
£111.60/year covers unlimited prescriptions. Worth it if you need 12+ items per year. Apply at nhsbsa.nhs.uk/ppc.
NHS dental treatment costs
Examination, diagnosis, X-rays, scale & polish, preventive care
All Band 1 plus fillings, root canal treatment, tooth extractions
All Band 1 & 2 plus crowns, dentures, bridges
🦷 NHS dentist waiting lists can be long — register as soon as you arrive. Search at nhs.uk/find-a-dentist.
Mental health support
Start with your GP
Your GP can refer you to free NHS Talking Therapies (IAPT). You can also self-refer directly at nhs.uk.
In-depth NHS Guide
Registering with the NHS
4 topics covered
Useful NHS & Health Links
🏥NHS
Find a GP, dentist, pharmacy, and more
Mind
Mental health support and advice for everyone
NHS Dentist Finder
Find an NHS dental practice near you
NHSBSA — Help with Costs
Check if you qualify for free prescriptions, dental & eye tests
NHS 111 Online
Non-emergency medical advice — free, 24/7
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Medical emergency? Call 999
Non-urgent advice? Call 111 (free, 24/7)