How to register for NHS

How to Register for the NHS in the UK :

What is the NHS?

The NHS (National Health Service) provides free healthcare to UK residents. Once you register, you can see a GP (doctor), get prescriptions, and access hospital care if needed.

Who Can Register?

• Anyone living in the UK for 6+ months

• Must have a UK address

• Must have a visa (if not a UK/Irish citizen)

• Students, workers, refugees, and family members are usually eligible

Step-by-Step: How to Register for NHS Services:

Step 1: Find a Local GP (Doctor's Office)

You must register with a local GP surgery first.

How:

1. Go to: https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-gp

2. Enter your postcode (e.g. LS1 2AB for Leeds)

3. Browse through the list of nearby GP practices

4. Choose one that says “Accepting new patients”

Step 2: Start Registration

Once you pick a GP, go to their website or visit in person.

You’ll need to fill in:

• GMS1 registration form (most GPs offer this online)

• Your name, date of birth, UK address, nationality

• Your NHS number (if you have one — optional)

• Visa/residency info (for non-UK nationals)

You may be asked to:

• Upload proof of address (e.g., rental agreement or bill)

• Upload photo ID (passport or BRP)

You do NOT need to have proof of address or ID by law, but many GPs ask for it.

Step 3: Wait for Confirmation

Once your form is submitted:

• You will usually get a welcome letter or email

• Some GPs may invite you for a new patient health check

• You don’t need to do anything else until you need care

Step 4: Receive Your NHS Number

If you don’t already have one, it will be assigned to you.

You may get it by:

• Post (letter to your UK address)

• Online (some GPs email it)

• Or, you can look it up later here:
  https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/online-services/find-nhs-number/

Now You're Registered!

You can now:

• Book appointments with your GP

• Get prescriptions

• Access urgent care

• Be referred to hospitals or specialists if needed

Other Useful NHS Info

Prescriptions:

• Prescriptions cost £9.90 per item (as of 2025)

• You can apply for free or discounted prescriptions if you're on low income or benefits

• Apply here: https://services.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/check-for-help-paying-nhs-costs

Dentists and Eye Care:

• NHS dentists and eye care are not always free

• Search for NHS dentists here: https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/find-a-dentist

• Eye tests: Some people (children, students, benefits claimants) get them free

What to Do in an Emergency:

• Call 999 for life-threatening emergencies

• Call 111 for urgent medical advice if it's not life-threatening

• Go to your local A&E (Accident & Emergency) if needed

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