Do I need immigration status to register with a GP?

No — registering with a GP is free and available to everyone living in England; you do not need to prove immigration status to register in most cases.

What is an NHS number and how do I get one?

Your NHS number is a unique 10-digit identifier for healthcare records. If you are not registered, registering with a GP typically results in an NHS number being created for you.

Can I get help in Italian during NHS calls or appointments?

NHS 111 and many local services can arrange confidential interpreters; practices may also provide language support or signpost local interpreting services.

Navigating NHS Healthcare as an Italian in the UK (2025)

How to register with a GP, get an NHS number, use urgent care and access language support — practical steps for Italians and EU nationals living in the UK.

NHS healthcare center entrance with staff helping patients with translation services — NHS healthcare services welcome all residents — register with a GP and access free healthcare support.

The NHS provides a broad range of free and low-cost services to residents. This guide explains how to register with a GP, find urgent care, use interpreters, and practical tips for prescriptions, GHIC/EHIC when travelling, and where to get extra help.

Need hands-on support with registration or paperwork? View Resinaro Services →

Quick checklist

Passport or BRP (for ID)
Proof of address (if available) — helps but not always required
UK mobile number / email for GP login and appointment messages
Bring a short list of medicines you take (names & dosages)

Registering with a GP (step-by-step)

Find local surgeries by postcode using the NHS website or NHS App.
Complete the registration form — most practices offer online registration or a paper form at reception. You usually do not need to prove immigration status to register.
Provide ID & contact details — passport/BRP is typical; proof of address is helpful but not always mandatory.
Confirm registration — once registered, you can book appointments and your records will be created. If you didn't have an NHS number, registering with a GP usually results in one being created for you.

NHS number — what it is & how to find it

Your NHS number is a unique 10-digit identifier used in medical records. You don't need to know it to use services, but it helps when transferring records or booking. You can ask your GP to look it up or use NHS online services where available.

Urgent care, walk-ins & emergencies

NHS 111 — free 24/7 advice for urgent but non-life-threatening problems (call 111 or use 111 online).
A&E / 999 — for life-threatening emergencies call 999 or go to Accident & Emergency immediately.
Urgent Treatment Centres — local clinics for injuries and illnesses that need same-day attention but are not life-threatening.

Language support & interpreters

If English is not your first language, NHS 111 and many services can provide a confidential interpreter by phone or video — tell them which language you need when you call. Practices may also be able to book face-to-face interpreters or point you to local translation services.

Prescriptions & repeat medicines

GPs can issue prescriptions — in England prescriptions usually have a charge unless you’re exempt. Ask your GP about setting up repeat prescriptions and using online pharmacy services to collect medicines. Keep a list of brand/generic names when you move from Italy to avoid confusion.

Travelling to the EU — GHIC / EHIC

If you hold a valid GHIC / EHIC, it can help you access state healthcare when visiting EU countries on the same basis as locals — check NHS guidance and apply for a GHIC if needed before travel. GHIC does not replace travel insurance and rules vary by country.

If you need help registering or have complex needs

Local NHS patient advice, Doctors of the World, and other charities provide practical help registering with GPs, getting documents in order, and language support. Your local practice or NHS England can also point you to community services.

Doctors of the World — practical help for migrants
NHS England patient advice — contact via local NHS pages
Local practice reception — ask for help or an advocate

Useful links

Register with a GP — NHS: nhs.uk (how to register)
Apply for GHIC — NHS: nhs.uk (GHIC)
Find your NHS number — NHS: nhs.uk (find NHS number).
Doctors of the World — practical migrant support (local clinics & help).

FAQs

Can I register with a GP without proof of address?

Many practices will accept registration without UK address proof; bring any ID you have and explain your situation — the practice reception or patient advice service can help.

How do I get an interpreter for appointments?

Ask your GP practice or call NHS 111 and state the language required — an interpreter can be arranged for calls, video or face-to-face where available.

Are emergency services free?

Emergency 999 calls and A&E are available regardless of immigration status; follow local guidance and call 999 in life-threatening situations.

Need help registering, filling forms, or arranging interpreters? Resinaro can help with hands-on support and document checks.

View Resinaro Services →