Medical Treatment Visitor Visa UK 2026
What you need to know
- •Private medical treatment is a permitted activity on a Standard Visitor Visa.
- •You must show the treatment is pre-arranged and you can pay for it.
- •Extensions are possible up to 11 months total for ongoing treatment.
- •NHS treatment is not available to visitors (except emergency A&E).
- •You need a letter from the treating doctor confirming the treatment plan.
You can visit the UK for private medical treatment on a Standard Visitor Visa. The treatment must be pre-arranged and privately funded. This is one of the few visitor categories that allows an extension from inside the UK. This guide covers the requirements, evidence, and extension process.
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Requirements
To visit the UK for medical treatment on a Standard Visitor Visa, you need:
- Pre-arranged treatment. A letter from the UK hospital or clinic confirming the treatment, expected duration, and cost.
- Financial evidence. Proof you can pay for the treatment, accommodation, and living costs. See our financial evidence guide.
- Medical history. A letter from your home country doctor explaining your condition and why you need treatment in the UK.
- Standard visitor requirements. Valid passport, intention to leave, ties to your home country.
Private vs NHS Treatment
Visitors can only receive private medical treatment. You are not entitled to NHS treatment except for emergency A&E care. If you receive NHS treatment, you will be charged at 150% of the NHS rate. For more on how the NHS works for different visa holders, see our visitor visa NHS guide.
Extending for Medical Treatment
Unlike most visitor categories, you can extend your stay from inside the UK if your treatment requires more time. The total stay (original visit plus extension) must not exceed 11 months. To extend:
- Get a letter from your treating doctor explaining why the extension is needed
- Apply online on GOV.UK
- Show you can pay for continued treatment and living costs
For more on extensions, see our visitor visa extension guide.
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Costs
- Visa fee: £115 (standard 6-month visitor visa)
- Extension fee: Additional fee if you need to extend
- Treatment costs: Vary by treatment and provider
- No IHS: Visitors do not pay the Immigration Health Surcharge
See our visitor visa cost guide and UK visa fees guide for more.
Organ Donation
You can also visit the UK as a living organ donor. This requires a letter from the NHS team managing the transplant, confirming you are a willing donor and the procedure is planned.
Next Steps
Related guides:
This guide is general information, not immigration advice. Immigration rules change frequently. For advice on your specific situation, consult an OISC-registered adviser or immigration solicitor. Always check GOV.UK for the latest rules.
Related guides
Preparing a UK visa application?
Get a personalised document checklist and eligibility check — free.