Why Registering with a GP Matters
Your GP (General Practitioner) is your first point of contact for most health concerns on the NHS. From routine check-ups and referrals to prescriptions and mental health support, having a registered GP ensures you can access the full range of NHS primary care services. Registering is free, and you do not need to be a permanent resident or citizen to sign up.
Who Can Register with an NHS GP?
Anyone living in England, Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland can register with an NHS GP. You do not need:
- Proof of address in all circumstances
- British citizenship or a settled status visa
- An NHS number (though having one speeds things up)
GP practices cannot refuse to register a patient based solely on their ethnicity, religion, gender, sexuality, disability, or immigration status.
How to Find a GP Practice Near You
The easiest way to find an NHS GP is to use the NHS Find a GP tool on NHS.uk. Enter your postcode and it will show you nearby practices, their current registration status (whether they are accepting new patients), and contact details.
It's worth checking a few practices in your area, as some may have a waiting list or temporarily closed lists.
What to Bring When Registering
While practices should not refuse registration solely because you lack documents, bringing the following will make the process quicker:
- Photo ID (passport, driving licence, or national ID card)
- Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, or tenancy agreement)
- Your NHS number, if you have it
- Previous medical records or a summary from your former GP, if available
The Registration Process: Step by Step
- Choose a practice – Use NHS.uk or ask neighbours/colleagues for recommendations. Proximity matters for home visits.
- Contact the surgery – Either visit in person, call, or increasingly, register online via the practice's website.
- Complete a registration form – You'll be asked for personal details, medical history, and your NHS number.
- New patient health check – Many practices offer (or require) a brief health check appointment to establish your baseline health.
- Receive confirmation – Once processed, you're free to book appointments as a registered patient.
What If a GP Practice Won't Accept You?
GP practices can close their lists to new patients if they are at capacity, but they cannot refuse based on personal characteristics. If you are refused:
- Try other nearby practices
- Contact your local Integrated Care Board (ICB) in England — they are legally required to find you a GP
- In urgent cases, walk-in centres and urgent treatment centres (UTCs) can help while you sort a permanent registration
Registering Children with a GP
Children can be registered at the same practice as their parents or at a different one. A parent or guardian must complete the registration on their behalf. It's a good idea to register a newborn as soon as possible, as GPs coordinate with health visitors for early developmental checks.
Accessing GP Services After Registration
Once registered, you can book appointments by phone, online (via NHS App or the practice's own system), or in person. Many practices also offer e-consult services where you can submit symptoms and queries digitally. If you need urgent medical help and cannot see your GP, dial 111 for non-emergency NHS advice available 24 hours a day.