Helpdesk

To access healthcare services whilst studying in the UK it is essential to register with a General Practitioner (GP).

PLEASE NOTE 

• International students who submitted their visa applications after April 6, 2015, might need to make a payment for the immigration health charge to access NHS healthcare services.
• You can find details about international student entitlement to NHS treatment on the UKCISA website.

1. Check Your Eligibility

• Ensure that you are eligible for NHS (National Health Services) healthcare services.
• Most international students are eligible if they are studying in the UK for more than 6 months, but some conditions may apply depending on your specific circumstances.

2. Gather Necessary Documents

• Passport or national ID cardVisa or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
• Proof of address (such as a tenancy agreement) and/ or a letter from your university stating your student status

3. Find a Local GP Surgery

• Use the NHS website or ask your university for a list of local GP surgeries in your area. 

4. Contact the GP Surgery

• Call or visit the GP surgery to inquire about registration. 
• They will provide you with information on their registration process and may ask for some initial details. 
• You should ask to be added to the list of National Health Service (NHS) patients.  
• This means you will not have to pay a fee to visit the doctor.
  
  

5. Complete the Registration Form

• You will be asked to fill out a registration form, which includes personal details and medical history. 
• Some GP surgeries offer online registration forms as well.
  
  

6. Submit Your Documents

• Provide the required documents, including your passport, visa, proof of address and student status letter to the GP surgery. They may ask for photocopies or scans.
  
  

7. Attend a Registration Appointment

• Some GP surgeries may require you to schedule a registration appointment. 
• During this appointment, they may discuss your medical history and any specific healthcare needs.

8. Receive Your NHS Number

• After your registration is approved, you will receive an NHS number. 
• This is a unique number that you should keep safe, as it will be used for all your healthcare interactions in the UK.

9. Access Healthcare Services

• Once registered, you can book appointments with your GP for medical consultations, vaccinations, prescriptions, and other healthcare needs.
  
  

10. Understand NHS Services

• Familiarise yourself with the services covered by the NHS and any additional services that may require payment or insurance, such as dental care or eye care.

REMEMBER!

• That the registration process and eligibility criteria may vary slightly depending on your specific circumstances, such as your visa type and the policies of the GP surgery you choose. 
• It's essential to confirm the requirements with your chosen GP surgery or your university's international student services office.