How to register with a GP surgery for the first time in the UK?

New to the UK or registering with a GP for the first time? Registering with a General Practitioner (GP) surgery is one of the most important steps when settling in the UK. This guide explains what the NHS is, why GP registration matters, and how to complete the process in minutes.

What is the NHS and why does it matter?

The National Health Service (NHS) is the UK's publicly funded healthcare system. It provides free healthcare to all UK residents, including free GP appointments, hospital treatments, emergency care, and most prescriptions. The NHS is funded through general taxation, so healthcare is free at the point of use. You don't pay when you see a doctor.

Unlike many countries where you need private health insurance or pay directly for medical care, the NHS provides full healthcare access to everyone living in the UK, regardless of income or employment status.

What is a GP surgery?

A GP surgery (also called a general practice or doctor's surgery) is your first point of contact for most healthcare needs. A GP is a qualified doctor who provides general medical care and can:

• Diagnose and treat common illnesses and injuries
• Prescribe medications
• Provide vaccinations and health screenings
• Manage ongoing health conditions like diabetes or asthma
• Refer you to specialists or hospitals if needed
• Provide medical certificates and letters

Why is registering with a GP surgery important?

GP registration is essential when you move to the UK. Here's why registering with a GP surgery matters:

• Access to healthcare: You need to be registered to book GP appointments, get prescriptions, and receive ongoing care
• Medical records: Your GP surgery maintains your medical history and coordinates your healthcare
• Specialist referrals: You typically need a GP referral to see specialists or access hospital services
• Emergency situations: Having a registered GP means your medical history is available when you need urgent care
• Preventive care: Access to health screenings, vaccinations, and regular check-ups to stay healthy

Who can register with a GP surgery?

Anyone living in the UK can register with a GP surgery, regardless of immigration status. You don't need to:

• Be a British citizen
• Have proof of address (though it helps)
• Have an NHS number (you'll be given one when you register)
• Have ID or a passport
• Pay any registration fees

GP registration is completely free. However, having proof of identity and address can make the process faster.

What documents do you need?

While you don't strictly need any documents to register, GP surgeries may request:

• Proof of identity: Passport, driving license, or national ID card
• Proof of address: Utility bill, bank statement, or rental agreement (dated within the last 3 months)
• Immigration documents: If you're from outside the UK (visa, leave to remain, etc.)

If you don't have these documents, the GP surgery cannot refuse to register you. They should still allow you to register, though the process might take slightly longer.

How to register with a GP surgery?

The traditional way to register involves several steps:

1. Find a GP surgery near your home or workplace
2. Contact the surgery to check they're accepting new patients
3. Fill out a registration form (GMS1 form)
4. Provide any requested documents
5. Wait for confirmation (can take several days to weeks)

The easier way: Register with a GP surgery and book your first appointment online

Traditional GP registration means waiting days or weeks for confirmation, then calling to book your first appointment—often waiting weeks more.

With Bookable, you register with a GP surgery and book your first appointment at the same time. The entire process takes about 10 minutes:

• Find GP surgeries accepting new patients in your area
• Choose an available appointment time
• Complete your GP registration online
• Get confirmed and booked instantly

What happens after you register?

Once you're registered with a GP surgery:

• You'll receive an NHS number (if you don't already have one) - this is your unique healthcare identifier
• You may be invited for a new patient health check
• You can start booking appointments with GPs and nurses
• Your medical records will be transferred if you were previously registered with another GP in the UK
• You'll have access to online services to book appointments and order prescriptions

Frequently asked questions

Can I register if I don't have proof of address?

Yes. GP surgeries cannot refuse to register you because you don't have proof of address. If you're homeless or staying temporarily with friends, you can still register.

How long does registration take?

Traditional GP registration can take 1-3 weeks for confirmation. Once confirmed, booking your first GP appointment can take several more weeks depending on availability. With Bookable, you complete your GP registration and book your first appointment in one step—typically under 10 minutes.

Can I choose any GP surgery?

You can register with any GP surgery, but most GP surgeries have a catchment area (geographic boundary). They may not accept you if you live outside their area. It's best to register with a GP surgery near your home or workplace for easier access to appointments.

Is GP registration really free?

Yes, GP registration is completely free. There are no fees to register with a GP surgery. GP appointments are also free on the NHS. Some services (like dental care and prescriptions in England) may have charges, but registering with a GP and seeing a GP are always free.

What if I'm only in the UK temporarily?

You can still register with a GP surgery if you're living in the UK temporarily—such as students, workers on temporary visas, or people staying for several months. However, if you're just visiting the UK on holiday as a tourist, you should not register with a GP surgery. Tourists should use emergency services (A&E) if needed and rely on travel insurance for healthcare.