How to Use the NHS: Guide for International Students
Moving to the UK as an international student is exciting, but understanding the healthcare process can feel overwhelming. What happens if you get sick? Do you have to pay for doctor visits? How do you even register for NHS services?
The National Health Service (NHS) is the UK’s public healthcare system, offering affordable and sometimes free medical care to residents, including international students. But understanding how it works, what’s covered, and how to access it is important
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know: who can use the NHS, how much it costs, how to get an NHS number, and what to do in an emergency.
Key Takeaways
The NHS (National Health Service) provides healthcare services in the UK, including for international students.
International students on a UK student visa can access the NHS by paying the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their visa application.
The IHS fee is £470 per year for students, which grants them access to NHS services such as GP visits, hospital treatments, and prescriptions.
Students must register with a GP (General Practitioner) to use NHS services and get an NHS number upon registration. Some services, like dental care and prescriptions, may have additional charges.
What is the NHS?
The National Health Service (NHS) is the UK’s publicly funded healthcare system, providing medical care to residents, including international students. It was established in 1948 and is one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive healthcare systems, offering a wide range of services, from GP (General Practitioner) visits to emergency hospital care.
How Does it Work?
The NHS is primarily funded through taxes and the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS), which international students pay as part of their visa application. This fee allows students to access most NHS services at no extra cost, similar to UK residents.
What Services Does the NHS Cover?
International students who have paid the IHS can access:
GP consultations (doctor’s appointments)
Emergency hospital care (A&E visits)
Mental health support
Maternity services (if needed)
However, some services like prescription medication, dental treatments and eye tests or glasses are not free and may require additional payment. Understanding how the NHS works can help you avoid unexpected medical costs and ensure you get the care you need while studying in the UK.
Can International Students Use the NHS in the UK?
Yes! International students in the UK can access NHS healthcare, but there are some important conditions to understand.
Who is Eligible for NHS Treatment?
International students can use the NHS if they:
Have a UK student visa (Tier 4 or Student Route) valid for more than six months.
Have paid the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their visa application.
If you meet these criteria, you can use most NHS services, just like UK residents, without paying additional fees for doctor visits or hospital treatments.
What If My Course Is Less Than Six Months?
Students on short-term study visas (less than six months) are not eligible for free NHS treatment and must pay for medical services out of pocket and get private health insurance before arriving in the UK.
Do EU/EEA Students Need to Pay for NHS Access?
If you're from the EU, EEA, or Switzerland, you may be able to use the NHS for free if you have a valid European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). However, if you’re studying for more than six months, paying the IHS is still required.
Do I Still Need Private Health Insurance?
Private health insurance is still a necessity for most students in the UK. Even if you’re eligible for NHS care, private health insurance is useful for:
Faster access to specialists and private hospitals.
Coverage for non-NHS services, like dental care and optical treatment.
Peace of mind in case of unexpected medical issues.
How Much Is the NHS Fee for a UK Student Visa?
The current IHS fee for international students is £470 per year of your visa duration and £235 for part of a year (less than six months).
For example:
If your course lasts one year, you pay £470.
If your course lasts two years, you pay £940.
If your visa is issued for two years and four months, you pay £1,175 (£940 for two years + £235 for the extra four months).
When and How Do I Pay the NHS Fee?
You pay the IHS online as part of your student visa application. After payment, you’ll receive an IHS reference number, which is required for your visa application.
What Happens If I Don’t Pay the IHS?
Your student visa application will be refused, and you won’t be eligible for NHS healthcare. This means you’d have to pay for medical services privately.
How to Use the NHS: Step-by-Step Guide for International Students
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use the NHS as an international student in the UK.
Register with a GP (General Practitioner): Find a local GP surgery using the NHS website. Provide your passport, BRP, proof of address, and IHS number. After you register, you will be assigned your NHS number after registration.
Book a doctor’s appointment: Call or book online through your GP. GPs provide free consultations and refer you to specialists if needed.
Collect prescriptions from a pharmacy: The prescription charge is around £9.65 per item. Popular pharmacies are Boots, Lloyds Pharmacy, and Superdrug.
Know when to call NHS 111 or 999: Call NHS 111 (free, 24/7) for non-urgent medical advice and 999 or A&E for life-threatening emergencies.
Wrapping Up
Understanding how to use the NHS ensures you get the healthcare you need while studying in the UK. From registering with a GP to knowing when to call NHS 111 or visit A&E, being prepared will make your experience smoother.
Make sure to pay the NHS fee, get your NHS number, and register with a GP as soon as you arrive. With these steps, you can focus on your studies, knowing you have access to reliable medical care whenever needed.
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