Healthcare
United Kingdom — Healthcare: Average Costs
NHS care is free at the point of use for ordinarily resident people; overseas visitors are charged 150% of NHS cost for hospital treatment.
VerifiedGovernment / official sourceGOV.UK — NHS entitlements: migrant health guideLast reviewed: 2026-10-23
Why this matters
Understanding average costs can help individuals plan and budget for potential healthcare expenses when relocating to the UK.
Key facts
- GP and nurse consultations and other primary care are free, and anyone in England can register with a GP free of charge without proof of address or immigration status.
- Hospital treatment is free for people ordinarily resident in the UK; non-EEA nationals subject to immigration control must hold indefinite leave to remain to qualify.
- All overseas visitors are charged 150% of the cost of NHS treatment unless exempt; non-urgent treatment usually needs payment in advance, urgent treatment is billed afterwards.
- Accident and emergency care, certain communicable disease treatment, sexual health services and NHS 111 are free regardless of residence.
- Visa holders staying over six months pay the immigration health surcharge and still pay for some services such as prescriptions and dental treatment.