If you are visiting or planning to move to England, it’s important to know how to access healthcare.
Registering with a GP in England
If you are planning to live and work in England, you will need to register with a GP (General Practitioner). You can find your nearest NHS GP practice using the NHS GP search tool.
To register:
- Visit or contact the GP practice via their website.
- Check if you are eligible to register.
- Complete the required registration forms.
Temporary Registration for Short Visits
If you are in England for more than 24 hours but less than 3 months, you can request to register as a temporary patient at a local GP practice. This is usually free on the NHS. However, the GP practice will inform you if the treatment you need is not covered by the NHS.
If you have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC), please present it when you visit the GP practice.
What GP Registration Means
Registering with a GP practice ensures that any care provided by the GP is free of charge. However, this does not automatically mean you are entitled to free NHS hospital treatment.
You may also be invited for NHS screening services as part of your registration, but some services not provided by the GP may require payment.
Vaccinations for People New to the UK
If you’ve recently moved to the UK, it’s important to check your vaccination history. Different countries offer different vaccines, and the NHS provides free vaccinations to protect against illnesses such as measles, mumps, rubella (MMR), polio, and tuberculosis (TB).
Everyone in England can register with a GP practice to access vaccinations, regardless of immigration status or proof of identity. It’s never too late to catch up on missed vaccines.
Learn more at Moved to the UK: Migrant Immunisation – GOV.UK or check the Vaccinations for Migrants leaflet for detailed guidance.
Child Immunisation Programme
The NHS child immunisation programme in the UK may differ from those in other countries. We provide a guide to routine immunisations needed for children who have recently moved to the UK. These immunisations are free and can be booked with a Practice Nurse at your GP surgery.
Download the immunisation guide.
Health Services Guide for Hong Kong Residents
With support from the Sale HongKongers group and Sale Central Primary Care Network (PCN), we have developed a health services guide for residents from Hong Kong. This guide helps you to:
- Understand how the NHS works.
- Access the right advice at the right time for you and your family.
- Find local community organisations for physical or mental health support, without needing to see your GP.
Download the health guide.