How to register with a new GP after you move
Find a surgery that covers your new address and register online, in the NHS App or with a form at the surgery. You don't need ID, proof of address or an NHS number.
- When
- In your first week at the new address
- How long
- About 20 minutes
- Cost
- Free
What you'll need
- Your new address
- Your NHS number if you know it (it helps, but you don't need it)
- The name of your old surgery
What to do
Find surgeries near your new home
Use the NHS "Find a GP" search and check which ones cover your address and are taking new patients.
Register
Most surgeries let you register online. If you already have the NHS App, you can use it to change surgery. You can also fill in a paper form at reception.
Leave the old surgery to the NHS
You don't need to tell your old surgery. They're told automatically once you're registered with the new one.
Order repeat prescriptions early
Get enough medicine from your current surgery to cover the first few weeks, in case registering takes longer than you expect.
If you skip this
Without a GP near you, it's hard to get non-emergency care, repeat prescriptions or a referral to a specialist.
Where to do it
Questions people ask
- The surgery asked for proof of address. Do I have to give it?
- The NHS says you do not need ID, proof of address or proof of immigration status to register.
- Can a surgery turn me down?
- Yes, if it isn't taking new patients or you live outside its area. If it refuses you, it must write to you within 14 days to explain why.
This is one job. There are about twenty more.
Tell us when and where you're moving and get the full list, in the order to do it.
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