NHS Registration in the UK: How Immigrants Sign Up for Healthcare

Who can use the NHS?

Anyone ordinarily resident in the UK is entitled to free NHS treatment. If you have a valid visa and are living in the UK, you have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge as part of your visa — this gives you full NHS access.

How to register with a GP

1. Find a GP (General Practice doctor) near you at nhs.uk/find-a-gp 2. Contact the GP practice directly (online or by phone) 3. Fill in the registration form (GMS1 form) 4. Show ID and proof of address 5. Registration usually takes 1-3 working days

Important

• You don't need a National Insurance Number to register
• You cannot self-refer to a specialist — you need a GP referral
• Prescriptions: £9.90 per item in England (free in Scotland, Wales, NI)
• Dental: separate from NHS GP — register with an NHS dentist separately