Understanding the UK Healthcare System (NHS): A Guide for Expats

Moving to the United Kingdom comes with many adjustments, and one of the most important is understanding how healthcare works. The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) is known worldwide for providing comprehensive medical care that is largely free at the point of use. For expats, knowing how the system operates, what services are available, and how to access them can make settling in much smoother. This guide breaks down everything you need to know.

What Is the NHS?

The National Health Service (NHS) is the publicly funded healthcare system in the UK. It provides a wide range of medical services, including:

General practitioner (GP) consultations
Hospital care
Emergency treatment
Maternity services
Mental health support
Prescription medications (with standard charges in England)

Funded primarily through taxes, the NHS aims to ensure healthcare is accessible to everyone living in the UK, including eligible expats.

Do Expats Have Access to the NHS?

Yes—most expats legally residing in the UK can use NHS services. However, eligibility depends on visa type and residency status.

1. Paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)

Most non-UK citizens applying for visas longer than six months must pay the Immigration Health Surcharge. Once paid, you gain access to the NHS on the same basis as UK residents.

2. EU/EEA and Swiss Nationals

Depending on current agreements, some may use the NHS with their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) when staying short-term.

3. Short-Term Visitors

Tourists or short-term visitors typically pay for most NHS services unless it’s an emergency.

How to Register with a GP (General Practitioner)

Registering with a GP is one of the first steps to accessing healthcare.

Find a local GP practice near your home using the NHS website.
Complete the registration form (usually the GMS1 form).
Provide proof of address and identity (requirements vary; some practices accept flexible forms of proof).
Attend a new patient health check if offered.

Once registered, your GP becomes your primary point of contact for non-emergency health concerns, referrals to specialists, and prescription medications.

How NHS Services Work

1. Primary Care

Most health issues begin with a GP appointment

. GPs can:

Diagnose and treat common illnesses
Refer you to specialists
Issue prescriptions
Provide routine screenings and vaccinations

2. Secondary Care

This involves specialist treatment, usually accessed through a GP referral unless it’s an emergency.

3. Emergency Care (A&E)

For life-threatening issues such as severe bleeding, chest pain, or serious injury, you can go directly to Accident & Emergency (A&E) or call 999.

4. Urgent but Not Emergency Care

For urgent problems that don’t require A&E, you can visit:

NHS 111 (phone or online)
Walk-in centres
Urgent treatment centres

Prescription Medications

In England, prescriptions have a standard fee, regardless of the medication.
However:

Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland offer prescriptions free of charge.
Some individuals (children, pregnant women, certain medical conditions) may qualify for free prescriptions.

Dental and Vision Care

Not all services are free within the NHS.

Dental Care

NHS dental treatment has set price bands, but many dentists only accept private patients due to demand.

Eye Care

Eye tests are free only for specific groups (e.g., children, seniors). Glasses and contact lenses are typically paid for privately.

Private Healthcare in the UK

Some expats choose private healthcare for:

Shorter waiting times
More flexible appointment schedules
Access to private hospitals and specialists

Private insurance is optional but can complement NHS services.

Tips for Expats Navigating the NHS

Register with a GP as soon as possible—before you get sick.
Use NHS 111 for medical advice when unsure where to go.
Understand waiting times, which can vary depending on the region and service demand.
Keep your visa and IHS payment confirmation for proof of NHS eligibility.
Know the differences between NHS and private care to make informed decisions.

Final Thoughts

The NHS is a key advantage of living in the UK, offering reliable and affordable healthcare to residents. As an expat, taking the time to understand how the system works will help you access the right care when you need it. With proper preparation—registering with a GP, knowing your rights, and staying informed—you’ll be well-equipped to navigate the UK healthcare system confidently.