NHS GP for New Arrivals and Immigrants in London
If you have recently moved to London from another country, navigating the UK healthcare system can seem daunting. The most important first step is to register with a General Practitioner (GP). A GP is your primary doctor and your gateway to almost all other NHS services.
The Short Answer
Anyone in England can register with an NHS GP and receive primary care for free, regardless of their nationality or immigration status. You do not need proof of address, photographic ID, or proof of immigration status to register. You can register online quickly and easily.
Your Right to Register
The NHS operates on the principle of universal access to primary care. This means that GP surgeries cannot refuse to register you on the grounds that you do not have a visa, are an asylum seeker, or cannot prove your identity.
When you register, you will not be asked about your immigration status. The practice’s only concern is providing you with medical care. If a receptionist insists on seeing a passport or visa, you can politely remind them of NHS England’s inclusion guidelines.
What Services Are Free?
As a registered patient, the following services are free of charge, regardless of your immigration status:
- Consultations with a GP or nurse (including online GP consultations)
- Treatment provided within the GP practice
- Treatment in an Accident & Emergency (A&E) department
- Family planning services
- Diagnosis and treatment of certain communicable diseases
Note: While seeing the GP is free, you may have to pay standard NHS charges for prescriptions at the pharmacy. Additionally, if the GP refers you to a hospital for specialist treatment, you may be charged for that hospital care depending on your visa status (unless you have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge).
Frequently Asked Questions
I don’t speak English well. Can I get an interpreter?
Yes. If you need an interpreter for your appointment, inform the GP practice when you book. The NHS provides free interpreting services (including British Sign Language) for medical appointments. You should not rely on family members to translate complex medical information.
I don’t have an NHS number yet. Can I still register?
Yes. If this is your first time using the NHS, you will not have an NHS number. When you register with a GP, the practice will arrange for an NHS number to be created and sent to you.
Can I register if I am not on the electoral roll?
Yes. Being able to vote has nothing to do with healthcare. Read more: Can I Register with a GP If I’m Not on the Electoral Roll?
How GP Pathfinder Clinics Can Help
London is one of the most diverse cities in the world, and at GP Pathfinder Clinics, we are proud to serve patients from all backgrounds. We make registration incredibly easy through our online portal, removing the stress of paperwork. Once registered, you can access our multilingual automated switchboard and book appointments with our diverse clinical team.
Welcome to London. Register with an NHS GP online today.
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