Accessing The NHS In England As An Overseas Visitor

In this post we will explore the extent to which an overseas visitor can access the National Health Service (NHS) in England. We will assess the relevant limits and risks to accessing the NHS in England as a visitor. Please note this post is restricted to the provisions for the NHS in England as each country in the UK has slightly different health systems.

What Is the Definition of a 'Visitor' and Who Is Considered to Be a Visitor?

A visitor is a person who is coming to the UK, usually for up to six months, for a temporary purpose, for example as a tourist on holiday, to visit family or friends, or to carry out a business activity.

A visitor must be a genuine visitor, meaning they must intend to leave the United Kingdom at the end of their visit, and will not make the United Kingdom their home through successive and frequent visits. Further, visitors must not undertake any prohibited activities, such as work (unless for business purposes permitted).