GP: how to register
GP (jee-pee) is your main doctor (like a general practitioner, family doctor). Everything in the NHS starts with them: treatment, prescriptions, referrals to specialists. You can register for free and without documents — you only need your name, date of birth and any address.
How to register with a GP — step by step
It is free, quick and without documents. You do NOT need a passport, visa, proof of address, status or money.
- 1. Find a GP surgery near youVia our database: find a GP by postcode, or on nhs.uk «Find a GP».
- 2. Say at reception: «I'd like to register, please»They will give you form GMS1. Can't read English? «I need help filling in this form» — they must help.
- 3. No address? Not a problemSay «no fixed address» and give a contact address — a hostel, a friend's address, a charity or the surgery itself.
- 4. Ask for an interpreter — free and it is your right«I need an interpreter in Russian, please». It is available when booking and at the appointment. Ask them to note the language in your record.
Registration usually takes up to 5 days. Your NHS number will arrive by post within 1–2 weeks. If you live in Home Office accommodation, they must register you as a permanent patient.
If the GP refuses to register you
importantThis sometimes happens — usually the receptionist does not know the rules themselves. The law is on your side. Do not walk away after the first «no».
They can (legally): if the list of new patients is closed, or you live too far from the surgery. In that case just go to another one.
- Step 1. Quote the rule«NHS guidance says I don't need ID, proof of address or immigration status to register.»
- Step 2. Ask for the practice manager«May I speak to the practice manager, please?»
- Step 3. Ask for a written refusal«Could I have the reason for refusal in writing, please?» They must provide it within 14 days — this is your evidence.
- Step 4. Call NHS England0300 311 2233 (Mon–Fri, 9:00–17:00). You can ask for an interpreter.
- Step 5. Get helpMigrant Help (24/7): 0808 8010 503. Doctors of the World — «Safe Surgeries» and GP Access Card (available in Russian).
How to get an appointment
You can book by phone, through the NHS App or on the surgery's website.
- RoutineAn ordinary problem. Wait a few days or weeks.
- Urgent same-dayIn many surgeries you need to call exactly at 8:00 am when they open the day's bookings. The line is busy — keep calling.
- By phone / videoThe doctor will call you back or meet online — ask when booking.
At reception they may ask «what is the problem» — this is to direct you to the right person. You are not obliged to give details. If the surgery is closed and you need urgent (not life-threatening) help — call 111.
Talking therapy — you can refer yourself
freeIf you’re struggling — anxiety, sleepless nights, the after-effects of what you’ve been through — you don’t need a doctor’s referral for free NHS therapy (NHS Talking Therapies, formerly IAPT). You refer yourself, directly.
- Self-referral, no referral letterNo GP referral needed. No immigration documents, visa or status either. It’s free for everyone.
- What it helps withAnxiety, depression, panic attacks, insomnia, intrusive thoughts, the after-effects of trauma and stress. A short course with a therapist — in person, by phone or online.
- In your languageYou can ask for an interpreter — free. You don’t have to speak English.
- How to referSearch “NHS Talking Therapies self-referral” + your area, or start here: find an NHS Talking Therapies service.
This is not for a crisis. If things feel unbearable or you’re having thoughts of suicide, don’t wait for therapy: call 111, option 2 or 999. More — mental health and crisis support.
Where to go next
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Do I need documents to register with a GP?
No. You do not need a passport, ID, visa, proof of address or immigration status. You only need your name, date of birth and any address. The NHS website clearly states: «You do not need ID, proof of address or proof of immigration status».
I have no address.
This can be resolved. Say «no fixed address» and give a contact address: a hostel, a friend's address, a charity or the surgery itself. This is the official procedure for people without housing. They cannot refuse you even without an address.
The GP refused to register me — what should I do?
If the refusal was because of documents, address or status — it is illegal. Say «NHS guidance says I don't need ID, proof of address or immigration status», ask for the practice manager and a written refusal. Call NHS England on 0300 311 2233. For help — Migrant Help 0808 8010 503 or Doctors of the World (Safe Surgeries).
I need an interpreter.
It is your right and it is free. Say «I need an interpreter in Russian, please» — when booking and at the appointment. Your child or friend must not interpret — only a professional. Ask to have the language noted in your record so you don't have to repeat it every time.
How quickly can I get an appointment?
A routine appointment takes a few days or weeks. An urgent same-day appointment — in many surgeries you need to call exactly at 8:00 am when they open the day's bookings. If the surgery is closed and you need urgent but not life-threatening help — call 111.
How long does registration take?
Usually up to 5 days. Your personal NHS number will arrive by post within 1–2 weeks — you do not need to carry it with you.