If you are new to the UK, one of the most important steps in settling in is registering with a local doctor. In the UK, this doctor is called a GP (General Practitioner). A GP is your main point of contact for most non-emergency medical care, including check-ups, prescriptions, and referrals to specialists.
This guide explains how to register with a GP, what documents you need, what to expect at your first visit, and how to use the NHS as a newcomer.
What Is a GP?
GP stands for General Practitioner. This is a family doctor who works in a GP surgery (also called a practice or health centre). They:
- Treat common health issues (e.g. coughs, infections, minor injuries)
- Prescribe medicine
- Manage long-term conditions (e.g. diabetes, asthma)
- Refer you to hospital specialists if needed
What Is the NHS?
The National Health Service (NHS) provides public healthcare in the UK. GP visits are usually free for anyone who is:
- A UK resident
- On a visa that includes access to the NHS
- An international student or worker who paid the immigration health surcharge
You do not need to have British citizenship to use the NHS. But you do need to register with a GP to access services easily.
Step-by-Step: How to Register with a GP
1. Find a Local GP Surgery
Search online using your postcode:
👉 Find GP surgeries near you here
Choose a surgery that:
- Accepts new patients
- Is close to your home or workplace
- Has good reviews or facilities
You can register with any surgery that accepts you — you do not need to live in a specific zone.
2. Fill Out a Registration Form
You will need to complete a GMS1 form and sometimes a new patient questionnaire. These are available:
- Online via the surgery’s website
- At the surgery’s reception desk
Some surgeries now offer online registration using NHS tools.
👉 Start registration online here
3. Provide Identification (If Asked)
GP surgeries should not refuse you if you do not have ID. But they may ask for:
- Passport or national ID
- Proof of address (e.g. tenancy agreement, utility bill)
- NHS number (if you already had one before)
If you do not have documents, explain your situation. The NHS encourages practices to be flexible, especially for new arrivals, asylum seekers, and students.
4. Wait for Confirmation
Once registered, you will receive:
- A welcome letter or email
- A new NHS number (if you did not have one before)
You are now officially registered. You can make appointments, request prescriptions, and access online services.
What to Expect at Your First Appointment
You may be offered a new patient health check, especially if you are over 40. This includes:
- Checking your blood pressure, weight, and height
- Asking about your medical history
- Discussing any ongoing health conditions or medications
Bring any documents or prescriptions from your home country to help the GP understand your needs.
Using GP Services
Once registered, you can:
- Book appointments online, by phone, or in person
- Request repeat prescriptions
- Get referrals to hospitals or specialists
- Access mental health or women’s health services
Appointments are usually:
- Free
- Around 10 minutes long
- Available within a few days (may vary by area)
Language Support
If you are not confident speaking English, ask the GP surgery for:
- A translator or interpreter (usually by phone during the appointment)
- Translated documents or guides
You will not be charged for this support — it is part of NHS services.
What About Private Doctors?
If you prefer to pay for private care, you can also register with a private GP. These clinics often offer:
- Same-day appointments
- Longer consultations
- More flexible hours
👉 Compare private GPs near you
Private doctors may be useful for urgent needs or if NHS wait times are long. But they are not a substitute for being registered with an NHS GP.
Registering Children or Dependents
Children must also be registered. You will usually:
- Fill in a child-specific form
- Provide your own ID as the parent or guardian
Children in school may need proof of GP registration for records or vaccines.
When to Use a GP vs A&E
Use a GP for:
- Mild or ongoing symptoms
- Medication requests
- Health advice
Use A&E (Accident and Emergency) or call 999 for:
- Serious injuries
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
- Severe allergic reactions
- Sudden confusion or collapse
If you are unsure, call NHS 111 (free, 24 hours) to ask for advice.
👉 Contact NHS 111 for urgent but non-life-threatening issues
Final Thoughts
Registering with a GP is one of the most important things you can do when settling into life in the UK. It gives you access to free healthcare, expert advice, and a local medical support system.
The process is simple — and you do not need to be a citizen or have perfect documents. Just choose a nearby surgery, fill out the forms, and take that first step.