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How to prove you are entitled to free NHS care

To help us to check if you are entitled to free healthcare, you will need to bring two separate documents to your appointment – one to prove your identity and one to prove your address. See section below for which documents you can bring.

Proof of identity

  • Current signed passport
  • Residence permit issued by the Home Office  
  • EU or Swiss national identity photo-card
  • Valid UK photo-card driving licence
  • Valid armed or police forces photographic identity card
  • Photographic disabled blue badge
  • Citizen card

It's best to bring proof of your right to reside in the UK. For example, this could be a:

  • UK or EEA passport
  • EEA national ID photo card
  • visa or residence permit issued by the Home Office biometric residence card or permit
  • asylum registration card
  • valid UK armed or police forces photo ID

This will help us to determine your eligibility quicker and avoid delays to your treatment.

Proof of address:

  • Recent original utility bill (gas, electric, water, telephone) (mobile not acceptable)
  • Council tax bill (valid for current year)
  • Bank, building society or credit union statement or passbook
  • Recent original mortgage statement from recognised lender
  • Current council/housing association rent book or tenancy agreement
  • Notification letter from Department for Work and Pensions or HM Revenue and Customs confirming your right to benefit or state pension

All patients admitted to our hospitals, whatever their nationality and residence status, are required to provide correct information when registering their details. If you are living lawfully with a settled purpose in the UK or are a visitor, you should be prepared to provide evidence.

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