First of all. MyHSN welcomes you to the UK. We and the NHS wants to look after you
The NHS is a universal healthcare system, which means it is designed for everyone living in the UK. However, navigating a new system can be daunting.
As of 2026, NHS guidelines remain clear: your immigration status is not a barrier to essential primary care.
Whether you are a student, a worker, or seeking sanctuary, here are the five most important steps to getting the best care possible.
The General Practitioner (GP) is your family doctor and the “front door” to the NHS. You do not need to wait until you are sick to register; in fact, you should do it as soon as you arrive.
No Proof Required: Under 2026 NHS England guidelines, a GP practice cannot refuse to register you because you lack a fixed address, ID, or proof of immigration status.
The NHS Number: When you register, the surgery will generate an NHS Number for you. This is your “ID card” for the health service—it ensures your blood tests and hospital letters all find the right file.
Digital Registration: Most surgeries now allow you to register online via the NHS website or the NHS App.
The NHS can be confusing because some parts are free for everyone, while others may carry charges depending on your residency status.
Always Free: GP appointments, A&E (Emergency Room) visits, and treatment for infectious diseases are free for everyone, regardless of status.
Hospital (Secondary) Care: If you have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of your visa, you are entitled to hospital care on the same basis as a UK resident.
Urgent Care Centres (UTCs): If your GP is closed and it isn’t a life-threatening emergency, search for a “Walk-in Centre” or “Urgent Treatment Centre.” They are open 365 days a year (8 am–8 pm) and are excellent for migrants who haven’t finished their GP registration yet.
You have a legal right to understand your healthcare. You should never feel pressured to bring a family member to translate sensitive medical information.
LanguageLine: Every GP surgery and hospital has access to LanguageLine, a professional phone interpretation service. It can be set up in seconds during your appointment. Just say “Interpreter please” and state your language.
NHS 111: If you call 111 for medical advice, they can also provide an interpreter. This service is free and available 24/7.
Booking in Advance: If you prefer an in-person interpreter, tell the GP receptionist when you book the appointment so they can arrange it for your time slot.
Many migrants face significant stress or trauma. The NHS provides specialized “Talking Therapies” (formerly IAPT) for anxiety, depression, and PTSD.
Self-Referral: In 2026, the NHS has made it easier to get help. You can self-refer for mental health support online at nhs.uk/talk without seeing a GP first.
Specialist Support: If you have experienced torture, domestic violence, or FGM, Sexual Health Clinics and specialized migrant charities offer confidential treatment that goes beyond basic contraception.
Migrant Charities: Organizations like Doctors of the World run “Safe Surgeries” and can help you if a GP practice wrongly refuses to register you.
The UK healthcare system is now highly digital. Using these tools gives you more “power” over your own health data.
The NHS App: Once you have your NHS number, download the app. You can book appointments, order repeat prescriptions, and see your GP medical record.
Patients Know Best (PKB): Many hospital trusts use this platform. It allows you to see your blood test results and hospital specialist letters on your phone, often before they even arrive in the mail.
The Low Income Scheme (HC2): If you are on a low income, you can apply for an HC2 Certificate. This provides 100% help with “user charges” like dental check-ups, prescriptions, and eye tests.
| If you have… | Go to… | Cost |
| A routine health concern | GP Surgery | Free |
| A minor injury (e.g., a cut or sprain) | Urgent Treatment Centre | Free |
| A mental health concern | NHS Talking Therapies | Free |
| A life-threatening emergency | A&E (Hospital) | Free |
| A toothache | NHS Dentist | Charges apply (unless exempt) |
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