UK Residency: Your Quick Guide to Health, NHS & Private Insurance

If you’ve just moved to the UK or are planning to stay, the first thing on most people's mind is healthcare. You’re probably wondering: Do I get free NHS care? Should I buy private insurance? How does residency affect my medical options? This guide cuts through the jargon and gives you straight‑forward answers.

Getting Covered by the NHS

As soon as you become a resident, you can register with a local GP (general practitioner). Registration is free – you just need proof of address, like a utility bill, and your passport or visa. Once you’re on the GP’s list, you’ll receive an NHS number, which opens the door to free doctor visits, hospital treatments, and most prescription medications (though prescriptions still carry a small flat charge per item).

What about emergencies? The UK’s emergency services (999) work for anyone on UK soil, regardless of residency status. However, routine care such as elective surgeries or specialist appointments may have waiting lists, especially in the NHS. That’s why many residents supplement with private health plans.

When Private Health Insurance Makes Sense

Private health insurance isn’t mandatory, but it can shave weeks off waiting times and give you a choice of hospitals and consultants. In 2025, the average monthly cost for a basic private plan sits between £50‑£80, though premiums rise with age, coverage level, and whether you include dental or vision add‑ons.

Most people buy private cover when they need quick access to elective procedures, want a private hospital room, or have a condition the NHS classifies as low priority. If you’re an expat with a corporate job, your employer might already provide a group policy – check the details before you sign up for another plan.

Remember, private insurance does not replace the NHS. You’ll still use the NHS for most routine care, and private insurers often require you to pay the NHS prescription charge if you fill a script through a pharmacy.

For newcomers, the practical steps are simple:

• Register with a GP as soon as you have a UK address.
• Apply for an NHS number (your GP will handle this).
• Assess whether private insurance fits your budget and health needs.
• Keep your visa or residency documents handy – they’re needed for both NHS registration and insurance applications.

Even if you’re only in the UK temporarily, the NHS still offers free urgent care and A&E services. If you plan to stay longer, setting up a private plan early can prevent surprise costs later.

Bottom line: Residency unlocks free NHS access, but private insurance can smooth out the rough edges of waiting times and give you more control over where and how you get treated. Use the steps above to get the right mix for your situation, and you’ll feel confident navigating the UK health system.