Getting started and registration

12 questions in this topic

• How do I register with a GP?

  To register with a GP practice, you can complete the online registration form on our website. Using the Bookable service, you can select an appointment and register at the same time. We will text you the registration form to secure your appointment. You will need to complete the registration form with key personal and medical details to identify yourself to your new GP surgery.
• Can I register with a GP in England if I’m new to the UK?

  Yes. Anyone can register with a GP in England and get GP services free of charge, no matter your immigration status. You do not need proof of address, ID, or an NHS number to register (though having them can help the surgery find your records). Different rules may apply in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Check local NHS websites.
• How do I get proof that I'm registered with a GP?

  Contact your GP practice directly to request a registration confirmation letter. This usually includes your registration date and NHS number.
• Do I need ID, proof of address or immigration status to register with a GP?

  No. You do not need ID, proof of address, or proof of immigration status to register with a GP surgery.
• Do I need an NHS number to register?

  No. You do not need an NHS number, though having one can make it easier to find your medical records.
• Can I register if I don’t have a permanent address?

  Yes. You can use a temporary address, such as a friend’s address, or even the GP surgery’s address.
• Can a GP surgery refuse my registration?

  Yes, but only if they are not accepting new patients, you live outside the surgery’s catchment area, or you have been removed from their patient list before.
• Can I register with a GP near my work instead of my home?

  Yes, if the surgery accepts out-of-area patients. Check their website, NHS Find a GP service (look for “Accepts out of area registrations”), or contact the surgery directly for confirmation.
• Why might a GP surgery ask me for extra documents?

  Sometimes a GP surgery may ask for documents to help transfer your records, confirm your identity, or prove you are the parent or guardian of a child you are registering.
• How do I register a baby or child?

  Children under 16 usually need to be registered by a parent or guardian. You will need to complete a registration form for the child. You may be asked for the child’s ID (such as their birth certificate), your ID to prove you are the parent or guardian, and their red book (child health record) if you have it. Parents and guardians are requested to be registered at the same GP surgery to improve care of the child, you will be prompted to register yourself at the same time as the child.
• Can I register someone I care for?

  Yes. Carers (paid, unpaid, foster or young carers) can register someone. You will be asked for both your details and theirs.
• What if the person I care for cannot make decisions about their care?

  If someone over 16 cannot register themselves, registration can be done by a relative, main carer, a person with lasting power of attorney, or someone appointed by the court under the Mental Capacity Act.