The Little Firefly

Your essential guide to accessing healthcare as a newcomer in the UK

Relocating to the UK is an exciting step, but understanding how to access healthcare in a new country can be daunting — especially if you’re used to private systems. The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) is publicly funded and provides comprehensive healthcare services across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. As an expat, here’s everything you need to know to navigate the NHS confidently.

What Is the NHS?

The NHS is the UK’s publicly funded healthcare system. It provides a broad range of services — from GP appointments and emergency care to mental health support and specialist treatment — most of which are free at the point of use for eligible residents.

Can Expats Access NHS Services?

Yes — but eligibility depends on your visa and residency status.

✅ If you’re moving on a visa longer than 6 months:

You’ll pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your visa application. This gives you access to most NHS services on the same basis as UK citizens.

IHS cost (2025): £1,035 per adult per year; £776 per child
Covers: GP visits, hospital care, emergency treatment, mental health services, and maternity care

🚫 If you’re staying short-term (under 6 months):

You won’t qualify for free NHS services. You’ll need private medical insurance to cover your healthcare costs.

🧑‍⚕️ How to Register with the NHS

1. Register with a GP (General Practitioner)

Your GP is your first stop for non-emergency care. Once registered, you can:

Book appointments
Access prescriptions
Get referrals to specialists

👉 Register online using NHS Find a GP

Bring proof of identity (passport/visa) and proof of address (e.g., tenancy agreement, utility bill).

📝 Tip: Register as soon as possible — some GP practices have waiting lists.

What’s Free and What Isn’t?

✅ Free NHS services for expats (with IHS):

GP consultations
Hospital treatment (A&E, surgery, specialist referrals)
Maternity care
Mental health support
Emergency ambulance services

💷 You may pay for:

Prescriptions: £9.90 per item in England (free in Wales, Scotland, NI)
Dental care: Charges start at ~£26.80 for NHS dental treatment
Eye care: Adults usually pay for eye tests and glasses unless exempt

Emergency Care: What to Do

Call 999 for life-threatening emergencies — ambulance services are free
Call 111 for urgent but non-life-threatening medical help — free and available 24/7
Visit A&E for serious injuries or sudden illnesses

🆘 Avoid A&E for minor issues. Use 111, a GP, or visit a pharmacist instead.

Prescriptions and Pharmacies

Collect medication at a local pharmacy with your prescription
Standard charge: £9.90 per item (unless you qualify for exemptions)
Many pharmacies also offer basic health advice and over-the-counter remedies

💡 Children, pregnant women, people over 60, and those on low incomes may qualify for free prescriptions.

Dental and Eye Care

🦷 Dental care:

NHS dentists offer treatment in bands (from ~£26.80 to £306 depending on complexity)
You’ll need to find an NHS dental practice — not all dentists accept new NHS patients
Use the NHS Dentist Finder

👁 Eye care:

Free eye tests are available for children under 16 and certain adults (low income, medical conditions, etc.)
Most adults will pay for exams and glasses

Regional Differences Across the UK

The NHS is devolved — meaning Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland run their own systems:

Prescriptions are free in these regions
Some services and waiting times may vary
Policies for dental and eye care may also differ

Private Healthcare: Do You Need It?

You don’t need private insurance, but some expats prefer it for:

Faster access to specialists or elective surgeries
More comfort and privacy
Coverage for treatments not included in the NHS

Popular private providers include:

Bupa
AXA PPP Healthcare
Vitality

Private insurance is optional unless your visa type requires it.

Quick NHS Checklist for Expats

✅ Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) during visa application

✅ Register with a GP when you arrive

✅ Keep your NHS number handy (assigned after GP registration)

✅ Carry proof of ID and address to appointments

✅ Use 111 for advice, 999 in emergencies

✅ Know the costs for prescriptions, dental, and optical services