Registering with a GP (General Practitioner) gives you free access to NHS doctors, prescriptions and referrals. It is free, open to everyone living in the UK regardless of immigration status, and you should do it in your first week, before you actually get ill.
What is a GP and why register early?
Your GP surgery is your first point of contact for almost all non-emergency health needs. You cannot usually see an NHS doctor, get repeat prescriptions or be referred to a hospital specialist until you are registered. Registration can take a few days to process, so doing it early means you are covered when you need it.
Step-by-step: registering with a GP
- Find a GP surgery near you. Use the official NHS "find a GP" service and choose a surgery whose catchment area covers your postcode.
- Contact the surgery. Most now let you register online; others ask you to call or visit reception.
- Complete the GMS1 registration form. This is the standard NHS form for joining a practice.
- Provide ID and proof of address if you can. A passport or BRP and a tenancy agreement or bill help, but see below if you don't have them yet.
- Wait for confirmation. You will get your NHS number by letter. You can still book appointments before it arrives.
No proof of address or ID? You can still register. NHS guidance is clear that a practice cannot refuse you just because you lack documents, a fixed address, or settled immigration status. If a receptionist turns you away, politely ask them to check their policy, or contact another surgery.
What you can do before you arrive
You don't have to wait until you land to get organised. Our free settlement tools build you a personalised timeline that puts GP registration in the right order alongside your other first-week tasks, and our multilingual assistant can answer your questions in English, فارسی, العربية or اردو.
Common questions
Is GP care really free?
Yes. GP appointments and most NHS treatment are free at the point of use. Some extras, such as most prescriptions in England and dental care, have set charges.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
Routine appointments can take a few days to a couple of weeks depending on the area. For urgent advice when your surgery is closed, call NHS 111. For life-threatening emergencies always call 999.
Can my whole family register at the same surgery?
Yes, you can register everyone in your household, including children, at the same practice.