Registering with the NHS and Becoming Eligible to Work in the UK

Returning to the UK this summer can be an exciting yet daunting experience, especially when it comes to sorting out healthcare and work eligibility. This guide will walk you through the process of registering with the National Health Service (NHS) and becoming eligible to work in the UK.

Understanding NHS Registration

Most Brits are registered with the NHS at birth or from a very early age, so the process may not be familiar to newcomers. Upon settling in your neighbourhood, it is best to choose the most convenient General Practitioner (GP) surgery to register with. Mention that you have recently moved to the UK and are not yet registered, and the receptionist should guide you through the process. You will eventually receive an NHS number, which is required for many transactions but often the system can identify you without it.

Necessary Steps for Visa Holders

While applying for your visa, you will be required to pay the NHS surcharge. Upon arrival in the UK, you should register with a local GP surgery at a nearby medical centre. If your stay is longer than the duration of a single visa, the surcharge must be paid with each new visa until you obtain “definite leave to remain.” At that point, you will likely be a taxpayer and will be treated the same as a UK resident.

Registering with a GP: A Step-by-Step Guide

Registering with a GP can be done at a nearby clinic or surgery. During the COVID-19 pandemic, you may find that the practice prefers online registration. Follow these steps:

Your Address: Provide your UK address, which can be a friend's house or a boarding house. Contact Information: Include a mobile phone number for easier communication via text message. Personal Details: Birth Date and Place Name and Any Previous Names Date of First Arrival in the UK Gender Ethnicity NHS Treatment Entitlement: State that you are unsure as to whether you qualify for free NHS hospital treatment. Supporting Documents: Passport or Birth Certificate (optional) European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) (optional)

It is crucial to provide accurate information but note that your responses will not affect your registration or treatment eligibility. Practices cannot refuse registration based on nationality, ethnicity, sexuality, gender, or medical history. If all nearby practices are full, you can contact the NHS England Customer Contact Centre on 0300 311 22 33 for assistance.

Consequences of Not Registering

As a non-registered individual, you may face medical costs if you require treatment. You will be charged for any hospital care if you are not a student or permanent worker. However, you will not be charged for attending a GP surgery or for immediate, necessary treatment. Prescription charges will apply, similar to UK residents, but hospital treatment will require payment based on your visa status.

Conclusion

Registering with the NHS and becoming eligible to work in the UK involves several steps, but the process is manageable once you know what to expect. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a smooth transition into your new life in the UK.