No matter your or your baby’s immigration status, you can always use the free NHS services available to everyone:
- Accident and emergency treatment
- GP visits
- Health visitor services
- Walk-in centres
- All vaccinations
Receiving other NHS services is dependent on immigration status.
All new babies get 3 months of all NHS care free, but after that charges may apply.
After 3 months, whether your baby continues to get free care depends on the immigration status of both parents.
Being born in the UK doesn’t automatically make your child a British citizen.
If you’re in the UK on a visa or other permission (such as Student, Skilled Worker, Refugee, or Pre-EUSS) you may need to apply to the Home Office to make sure your baby can access free full NHS care after they are 3 months old. The Home Office is the UK government department responsible for immigration and passports.
Newcastle Hospitals Overseas Visitors’ team can help
The team can help you understand what to do when having a child in the UK.
Important Notice: The NHS cannot provide immigration advice but can guide you on whether you need to contact the Home Office and make an application for your child.
The Overseas Visitor’s team can help you work out what you need to do when your baby is born. Please contact them if you are not sure what your child is entitled to.
Overseas Visitors Team
Phone: 0191 282 0593 or 0191 282 0500 (Monday to Friday, 9am to 4.30pm)
Email: [email protected]
What action should people take (and when)?
Before your baby is born:
Contact the Overseas Visitors team to check if an application will be needed, once your baby is born.
If an application is required, immediately after your baby is born:
Follow instructions from the Home Office to apply for your child’s leave.
If unsure, contact the Overseas Visitors Team as soon as possible.
After 3 months:
Your baby is exempt from NHS charges for 3 months from birth, and during this time an application may need to be made to make sure they are entitled to NHS treatment in the future.
Once an application is made the baby is not entitled until the application is granted. If the child exceeds the 3-month exemption, the Overseas Visitor’s team can help parents understand what this means in terms of charging.
Useful links:
Check if your immigration status lets you get free healthcare – Citizens Advice
Moving to England from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) – NHS
