Overseas visitors
NHS services are not free for everyone or every treatment. If you’re visiting us from another country and you use our services, you may have to pay for your care.
Remember:
- you may have to pay for your care even if you’ve previously been a UK resident
- we are legally required to collect payment before any planned care takes place
Accepted forms of identification
You need to bring evidence with you to show that:
- you’re an ordinarily resident of the UK
- you fall into one of several exemption categories
The following documents can be used as proof of identity:
- current signed passport
- residence permit issued by UK Border Agency
- if you’re claiming asylum, an asylum registration card (ARC)
- EU or Swiss national identity card
- valid armed forces or police identity card
Proof of address
We also require proof of address. These documents must include your current address and dated within the last six months.
You can use the following as proof of address:
- an original, recent utility bill (gas, electric, water, or telephone – but not a mobile phone bill)
- council tax bill (current year)
- bank, building society, or credit union statement or passbook
- an original, recent mortgage statement from a recognised lender
- current council, or housing association rent book or tenancy agreement
- notification letter from Department for Work and Pensions confirming your right to benefit or state pension
Please note - we may ask you to provide proof you’re exempt from fees at any time, including during your outpatient appointment.
Paying for your care
If you are not eligible for free treatment, you will be charged for any treatment we provide – whether that’s in hospital or in the community.
We are legally required to collect payment before any planned care takes place
If you have to pay for your treatment, our overseas visitor team will make contact with you.
More information
If you have any questions about our fees, or proof of identity requirements, you can email our overseas visitor team.