NHS Access for Asylum Seekers in the UK 2026
What you need to know
- •Asylum seekers get free NHS healthcare without paying the IHS.
- •GP practices must register you even without proof of address or ID.
- •Free prescriptions, dental care, and eye tests with asylum support.
- •Mental health services are available through the NHS and specialist charities.
Asylum seekers have full access to free NHS healthcare in the UK, including GP services, hospital treatment, and mental health support. You do not need to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge. This guide explains your rights and how to access services.
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Your Right to NHS Healthcare
Asylum seekers are entitled to free NHS healthcare in the UK. This is set out in the NHS (Charges to Overseas Visitors) Regulations. Unlike most other visa holders, asylum seekers do not pay the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Your entitlement to free NHS care continues while your asylum claim is being considered. If your claim is refused, you may still be entitled to certain free services.
Registering with a GP
Your first step should be to register with a GP (General Practitioner — a family doctor). According to GOV.UK guidance and NHS England policy:
- GP practices must register you as a patient
- You do not need proof of address, a fixed address, photo ID, or immigration documents
- You do not need an NHS number (one will be assigned when you register)
- If a practice refuses to register you, contact NHS England or the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)
See our GP registration guide for step-by-step instructions.
What Services Are Free
As an asylum seeker, the following NHS services are free:
- GP consultations. All GP appointments and treatment.
- Hospital treatment. All treatment provided by NHS hospitals, including emergency care, planned treatment, and surgery.
- Maternity care. All antenatal, delivery, and postnatal care. See our pregnancy and NHS guide.
- Mental health services. Counselling, therapy, and psychiatric care through the NHS. See our mental health guide.
- Family planning. Contraception and sexual health services.
- Treatment for communicable diseases. Including TB and HIV treatment.
- Emergency care. A&E (Accident and Emergency) is always free for everyone in the UK.
Free Prescriptions and Dental Care
If you receive asylum support (Section 95 or Section 4), you are entitled to:
- Free prescriptions. Ask your pharmacist for an HC2 certificate or show evidence of your asylum support.
- Free NHS dental treatment. Register with an NHS dentist and show your HC2 certificate or asylum support evidence.
- Free eye tests. Visit an optician and show your HC2 certificate.
- Help with travel costs. If you need to travel to hospital appointments, you can claim back the cost.
To get these benefits, apply for an HC2 certificate using form HC1, available from your GP practice or Jobcentre Plus.
Healthcare for Children
Children of asylum seekers receive the same healthcare as any other child in the UK:
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Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.
- All NHS treatment is free
- Vaccinations and immunisations are provided through the GP and school health programmes
- Free prescriptions for all children under 16
- School health services and health visitors
See our education guide for asylum seeker children for information on school-based health services.
Mental Health Support
Many asylum seekers have experienced trauma, violence, or persecution. Mental health support is available through:
- Your GP. Can refer you to NHS mental health services (IAPT/Talking Therapies) or specialist services.
- Community mental health teams. For more serious mental health conditions.
- Specialist organisations. Freedom from Torture, the Helen Bamber Foundation, and local refugee mental health services provide specialist support for asylum seekers and torture survivors.
If you need an interpreter for mental health appointments, the NHS should provide one. Ask when you book your appointment.
If Your Claim Is Refused
If your asylum claim is refused, you are still entitled to:
- GP registration and primary care
- Emergency hospital treatment (A&E)
- Treatment for communicable diseases
- Family planning services
- Maternity care
However, you may be charged for non-emergency hospital treatment if you are a "failed asylum seeker" and are not receiving Section 4 support. The rules are complex — see our refused asylum options guide and seek advice.
Common Problems
- GP refusing to register you. This is against NHS England policy. If it happens, contact NHS England on 0300 311 2233.
- Language barriers. The NHS should provide interpreters. Request one when booking appointments. Do not use family members, especially children, as interpreters for medical appointments.
- Hospital bills. If you receive a bill from a hospital, seek advice immediately. Asylum seekers should not be charged. Contact your solicitor or legal aid provider.
Next Steps
Register with a GP as soon as possible after arriving in the UK. If you need help, contact a refugee support organisation or your asylum support provider.
For official NHS guidance, visit GOV.UK migrant health guide.
Related guides:
This guide is general immigration information, not immigration advice under s.82 Immigration and Asylum Act 1999. Immigration rules change frequently. For advice on your specific situation, consult an IAA-authorised adviser or an SRA-regulated immigration solicitor. Always check GOV.UK for the authoritative current rules.
Related guides
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get the exact document list and step-by-step timeline — £149, paid once.