How to register with a GP

Anyone living in the UK can register with a GP surgery for free. This guide explains who can register, what you need, and the fastest way to do it.

Written by the Bookable team · Reviewed July 2026 · Information based on NHS guidance

In short:

Anyone living in the UK can register with a GP for free.
You do not need documents, an NHS number or a specific visa.
With Bookable you register and book your first appointment in one step.

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How to register with a GP through Bookable

The quickest way is Bookable, where you register with an NHS GP surgery and book your first appointment at the same time:

Enter your home postcode to see NHS surgeries near you.
Compare surgeries by distance, availability and patient ratings.
Pick your first appointment time.
Complete your registration online in about 10 minutes. No documents needed.
Get a confirmation text and email. Your NHS number and any previous records will move to your new GP surgery automatically.

28,335 GP appointments are available to book online now.

Most people register and book a first appointment in one sitting

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Who can register

Anyone living in the UK can register with a GP, whatever their immigration status. It's free.

You do not need ID, proof of address or an NHS number. A surgery cannot refuse you because you do not have documents or an address.

How to choose a GP surgery

Most GP surgeries have a catchment area, so pick one near your home. When comparing GP surgeries, you might want to look at appointment availability, opening hours and patient ratings to help you choose. You can change your GP surgery at any time, so your first choice does not have to be permanent.

Other ways to register

The traditional route has several steps:

Find a surgery near you that is accepting new patients.
Fill out a registration form (you might see this called a GMS1).
Provide any requested documents.
Wait for confirmation, which can take days or weeks.
Contact the surgery again once registered to book your first appointment.

What happens after you register

Once you're registered:

you'll get an NHS number if you do not already have one
your medical records transfer automatically if you have had a previous English or Welsh GP surgery
you can book appointments, order repeat prescriptions and use online services
you may be invited for a new patient health check

Tip: register with a GP surgery before you get ill. It's much easier to see a GP quickly when you're already registered.

Common questions

Can I register with a GP without proof of address?

Yes. A GP surgery cannot refuse to register you because you have no proof of address or ID. This includes people who are homeless or staying temporarily with friends.

How long does GP registration take?

Traditional registration can take weeks to confirm, plus more time to book a first appointment. With Bookable's fast registration you register and book your first appointment together. You are registered with a GP surgery typically in under an hour.

Can I choose any GP surgery?

You can apply to any surgery, but most have a catchment area and may not accept you if you live outside it. Choose a surgery near your home for better convenience and access.

Is GP registration free?

Yes. Registering with a GP and seeing a GP are always free on the NHS.

Can I register if I'm in the UK temporarily?

Yes, if you're living in the UK for months at a time, for example as a student or on a work visa. If you're staying locally for less than 3 months, then you can register as a temporary patient at a GP surgery and receive free care.