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.
GUIDE ON HOW TO REGISTER WITH THE GP IN THE UK
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
You will typically need the following 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.
- UK Council for International Student Affairs Health and Healthcare
- How to Register with a GP surgery
- Student Health
- How to Access NHS Services in England if You Are Visiting from Abroad
If you are having any difficulties in registering with a GP , you might want to contact the Student Engagement Team.