Registering with your GP: understanding your rights
We want to help you understand your rights when registering with your GP using NHS guidelines, as accessing a GP is an ongoing issue you tell us about.
Do I need proof of address to register with my GP?
NHS guidelines state that you don't need proof of address, immigration status, ID or an NHS number to register with a GP. However, some GP surgeries ask for supporting documentation as it can:
- help the surgery find your medical records or transfer them from your current GP
- Confirm that you live in the surgery's area (or "practice boundary") if they do not accept patients from outside this area
- If you do not have a permanent address, you can still register using a temporary address or the address of the GP surgery.
Do I need identification to register with my GP?
You do not have to provide an ID when registering with a GP, but it does help. Below is a list of documents that you can use as ID:
- Passport
- Birth certificate
- Biometric residence permit
- Travel document
- HC2 certificate
- ARC card
- Utility bill
What could stop me from being able to register at my GP?
A GP must explain why they refuse your request to register in writing. The GP has the right to refuse if the following criteria are met:
- The practice isn't currently accepting new patients.
- The practice only accepts patients living within its practice boundary.
- Registering with a practice that is a long way from where you live may not be appropriate.
What to do if you are refused the right to register
Ask the GP receptionist why they cannot register you. They should give you an apparent reason. If the GP already has too many patients, they can refuse to register you, but they must explain this in writing.
If you have problems registering with a GP surgery:
- Call the NHS England Customer Contact Centre on 0300 311 22 33
- Contact Healthwatch Islington
I want to change my GP practice; do I have to give a reason?
No, you don't have to tell your practice why you want to change or your new one why you made that decision.
You'll need to fill in a registration form. A request will then be made to your current GP for your medical records to be transferred to the new GP surgery.
Read more information on how to register in practices further away from your residence.
Registering as a temporary patient
You can register with a GP practice as a temporary patient. You can register as a temporary resident with a GP surgery for up to three months. To register, you must fill out a temporary services form (GMS3) from GP surgeries.
After three months, you must reapply to register as a temporary resident or become a permanent patient.
Find out how to register as a temporary patient with a GP
Accessing GP care as a student
If you become unwell or need other medical treatment when you're at home or not staying near your university GP, you can contact your nearest practice to ask for treatment.
You can receive emergency treatment for 14 days. After that, you will have to register as a temporary resident or permanent patient.
Find out how to see a GP if you're away from home
You can also visit an NHS urgent treatment centre. You don't need an appointment, and you don't need to be registered.
They can treat minor injuries or illnesses such as cuts, bruises and rashes. They aren't designed for treating long-term conditions or life-threatening problems.
More information
Are you an asylum seeker, refugee, a homeless patient or an overseas visitor, whether lawfully in the UK or not?
