No fixed abode and registering with a GP
Temporary Resident
Overseas visitors can register with a UK GP, even if they don’t qualify for secondary care. If someone is staying for more than 24 hours but less than 3 months, they should be offered temporary residency. This also applies to those needing urgent care for stays shorter than 24 hours.
Immediately Necessary Treatment
General Practices must provide urgent care to everyone, regardless of nationality or immigration status. They also need to offer 14 days of follow-up care after immediate treatment.
Documentation: Practices require proof of identity and residence, especially to protect children. This policy helps ensure everyone’s safety.
NHS Treatment Eligibility: The NHS serves UK residents. Some treatments are free; others require payment. The rules are complex and may change.
UK residents can see a GP for free. A person is deemed a resident if they live in the UK for a specific purpose. This includes those moving to the UK. Visitors do not qualify.
Everyone is entitled to:
- Emergency care (no follow-up).
- Treatment for certain infectious diseases.
- Mandatory psychiatric care.
- Other treatments have specific eligibility requirements, outlined below.
EU Nationals
EU member states have reciprocal agreements for health care. So, foreign nations can access all NHS services.
Non EU Nationals
Foreigners from outside the EU generally don’t get NHS healthcare for free, except in certain cases. Students and visitors staying less than six months must pay for treatment. So, having private insurance is very important. If you’re not a student in the UK and plan to stay under six months, free NHS treatment is unlikely.
If you’re unsure about getting NHS treatment, just ask the reception staff when you register. They’ll guide you. Keep in mind, a six-month visa doesn’t automatically grant free NHS treatment.
Also, registering with a GP doesn’t mean you’ll get free hospital care. So, it’s crucial to have insurance before you arrive in the UK.
Students
If you are a student at a UK University and can prove it, you will qualify for NHS treatment if you stay in the UK for more than six months. You (and your dependents) are entitled to NHS treatment and may register with a GP.
Medical Emergencies
If you have an emergency, like an accident, call 999. It’s free. An operator will ask if you need fire, police, or ambulance services. Then, explain what happened and where you are. If someone is hurt, an ambulance will take them to the nearest hospital with emergency care. If you need urgent treatment but can get there yourself, please do so.
How To Register As A Temporary New Patient
You can register as a temporary resident with a GP in England if you are in the area for longer than 24 hours but less than three months.
Why should I register as a temporary patient?
- If you are ill or need medical advice while away from home, you can register temporarily with a nearby GP. This applies when you’re working, studying, or on holiday.
- You will still remain registered with your permanent GP, but you can see your temporary GP for up to three months. After three months, you must re-register as a temporary patient or permanently register with that practice.
- Your temporary GP will inform your permanent GP of any treatment. They will add the details to your medical records.
What information do I need?
Try to have the following information with you when you see your temporary GP for the first time:
- Details of any medical conditions you have
- Details of medical conditions you’ve had in the past
- The name of any medicines you’re currently taking
- Details of anything you’re allergic to
- Contact details for your permanent or previous GP