Accessing healthcare abroad

Moving abroad is a significant decision. You should research a wide range of information and advice in advance to help you plan and ensure the move goes smoothly. If you move abroad permanently, you will no longer automatically be entitled to medical treatment under standard NHS rules. This is because the NHS is a residence-based healthcare system.

Planning your healthcare

You must find out about the healthcare system where you plan to move, including any costs and how to get a complete health plan. Many countries do not provide government-funded healthcare, and your eligibility for treatment under the NHS will change.

Healthcare systems vary and might not include services you expect to get free of charge on the NHS. You may have to pay a patient contribution towards any treatment, or it may be necessary to take out health insurance. Before leaving, you must check what health services are available in your destination country.

In most countries, you will have to register with the relevant authorities. Once you are registered as a resident to work and make social security (national insurance) contributions, you will usually be entitled to state-run healthcare on the same basis as a local resident.

Medication and emergency care

Pack enough supplies of your medication in your hand luggage to last until you can access healthcare in your new country. Keep medication in its original packaging and take your prescription documents with you.

Some medicines that are legal in the UK may be restricted or illegal elsewhere. Check with the embassy of the country you are moving to to ensure your medication is legal and to see if you need a specific doctor’s letter. When you arrive, locate your nearest haemophilia centre immediately so you know where to go in an emergency.

Moving to Europe

You might be entitled to healthcare paid for by the UK in specific circumstances. This depends on whether you move permanently or work abroad for a set period. Assistance within the European Union (EU) and Switzerland often depends on whether you receive a UK State Pension or other UK benefits.

  • S1 Form: If you receive a UK State Pension or certain exportable benefits, you may be eligible for an S1 form. This allows you to access state healthcare in your country of residence, paid for by the UK. Since 2024, if you have a registered S1, you can also access the NHS for free when visiting England.
  • GHIC and EHIC: The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) has now largely replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for UK residents. These cards allow you to access “medically necessary” state healthcare during temporary stays (usually up to 90 days) in the EU and some other countries, like Australia and Montenegro. These cards are not a substitute for travel insurance and do not cover private care or repatriation.

Reciprocal Health Agreements

The UK has agreements with several non-EU countries. In these places, you are often treated as a local resident would be.

  • Isle of Man: Residents visiting the UK receive free healthcare, and vice versa. You will still pay statutory charges like prescriptions.
  • Jersey: A reciprocal agreement covers emergency treatment for visits under three months. As of March 2026, Jersey has updated its policies to ensure resources are focused on residents and those with reciprocal cover. Visitors from countries without an agreement will be charged for emergency room care.
  • Guernsey: Guernsey now has a reciprocal health agreement with the UK. This allows residents from one jurisdiction to access necessary healthcare when visiting the other. However, it does not cover all costs, and you should still have travel insurance.

International Health Insurance

International health insurance works like private health insurance in the UK. It typically covers emergency treatment, diagnosis, and post-treatment care. When choosing a plan, ensure it specifically covers:

  • Pre-existing conditions (such as bleeding disorders).
  • Chronic conditions and hospital stays.
  • A choice of medical providers.

Contact Overseas Healthcare Services

For questions about healthcare cover or the Immigration Health Surcharge, you can contact the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA):

  • Telephone (UK): 0300 330 1350
  • Telephone (Outside UK): +44 191 283 3909
  • S1, S2, and PRC enquiries: 0191 218 1999
  • Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm; Saturday, 9am to 3pm.

Useful resources:

Disclaimer: The information on this page is provided by GOV.UK, the NHS and other official sources to help access healthcare aboard. It is subject to change without notice. It is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice or specific requirements. Always check the latest official advice and speak with your haemophilia centre team.