Complete Guide for International Students to Register with the NHS before Moving to the UK

25 October 2025

Are you considering attending school in the UK? It is once you have packed your bags, but first, there are few things you will need to know about registering with the National Health Service (NHS). Having your NHS registration in place means you’ll have access to reliable health care services as soon as you land in the UK. For many international students, it can be a bit confusing when you first look into the NHS registration process but, once you know how to register, it is quite simple.

At BCES Admissions Abroad, we prepare students for all areas of studying in the UK, from university applications to health registration, so you can begin your academic journey with ease.

Understanding the NHS and why it matters

The NHS – National Health Service – is the UK’s public healthcare. It provides patients with the medical and health services that they need, including doctor consultations, inpatient care, emergency treatment, and vaccination programmes. If you come to the UK to study for a period of more than six months, you are entitled to the services carried out by the NHS once registered with one.

Registering early will not only help avoid delays when you need medical care, but also assist you in obtaining access to care when you arrive in the UK.

Step 1: Gather Important Documents

Before you get to the UK, you need to make sure you already have the needed documents. You will need:

• A valid passport and UK student visa
• Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) or letter of enrollment from your university
• Proof of your address in the UK, or your letter stating your temporary accommodation
• A letter from your university confirming your student status.

If you do not yet have a permanent address you can contact the international office at your university, they will often help students with temporary registration.

Step 2: Pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) 

When you apply for your UK student visa you will pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) to get access to NHS services while in the UK. When you apply for the visa you will be provided with an individual IHS reference number. Take care of this reference number because it is proof of your access to NHS healthcare.

Step 3: Register with a Local GP (General Practitioner)

Once you have arrived in the UK, registering with a local GP is the next step. This is important for obtaining regular medical services and prescriptions.

You can find a nearby GP through the official NHS website by putting in your postcode. Most GP practices now have online registration, but some may require you to visit in person. You will be required to fill out a GMS1 form, attach your identification documents, and provide your IHS number.

Once registered, you are given your NHS number, which you will use for future medical appointments.

Step 4: Setting Up the NHS App

Once you have registered with a GP, download the NHS App or go to the NHS website. You can:

• Book or manage GP appointments
• Order prescriptions online
• View your vaccination records
• Access personal medical history and health advice

This makes access to healthcare quick, organized, and paperless.

Step 5: Know what’s included in NHS Services

With this registration, you will be entitled to all the services provided by the NHS, from general practitioners’ consultations and hospital treatments to mental health and emergency services. If a certain service is not fully covered-for example, dental or eye care-you can always turn to private providers.

Having your NHS registration ready before you start your studies ensures that you are protected, especially during your initial months in the UK.

Why It Pays to Register Early

By registering with the NHS early, you will not be met with delays in booking appointments or seeking medical consultations. It is also a prudent way of settling in seamlessly because your health is covered, thereby allowing you to concentrate on studies and university life.

At BCES Admissions Abroad, our expert counselors help students handle every step—from preparing NHS documents to understanding the UK healthcare system.