Frequently Asked Questions:

Who can register with a GP? 

Legally, any person living in the UK (i.e. any person who is not in the UK for a short visit/ holiday) may register with a GP. You do not need to be a British citizen, or to have lived in the country for a certain time. However, you can only register with a GP who is located near you, rather than any GP you like.

GPs however are able to exercise a certain degree of discretion over who they register and you may find some GPs are easier to register with than others.

What documents do you need to take with you to register with a GP?

Legally, you do not need any documents to register with a GP.

In practice, some GP practices may ask for:

• Your NHS card
• Proof of address (usually 1 or 2 bills with your name on it) in order to prove that you live in the area
• Your passport in order to prove your identity and to check what type of Visa you have.

But no GP practice should refuse to register you either because you are unable to provide this documentation or because you have a certain type of Visa. If they do, tell them that you will be raising this issue with NHS England (see below under - 'How to make a complaint').

How do you change GP practice?

All you need to do to change GP Practice is to register with a new GP Practice. You do not need to inform your current GP Practice that you’re leaving them.

Alternatively, if you choose to stay in your GP Practice, you can request when making an appointment to be booked with a particular doctor and you can turn down appointments with a doctor you find unsuitable.