Health Insurance for Visitors to the UK: What to Check

Visitors should arrange appropriate medical cover before travelling. A standard UK private medical insurance policy may require UK residence or other eligibility conditions, so do not assume you can buy it as a short-term visitor.

Travel insurance or private medical cover?

Travel insurance is usually designed for a trip and may include emergency medical costs, repatriation and travel disruption, subject to its terms. Private medical insurance is generally an ongoing policy for eligible treatment. Check destination, trip length, pre-existing medical conditions, activities and exclusions in writing.

Understand NHS access and charges

NHS rules differ across the UK. In England, some overseas visitors who are not ordinarily resident may be charged for relevant hospital services unless an exemption applies. Certain services are free to everyone, and urgent or immediately necessary treatment is not withheld while payment is considered. These rules are not a substitute for insurance.

If you are visiting England for less than six months, NHS guidance advises arranging healthcare cover for your stay. Check current guidance for the country you will visit and your own status.

Compare UK private health cover options with our health insurance comparison tool; visitors should also check suitable travel insurance.

Sources checked 19 October 2026: NHS: accessing services in England when visiting from abroad · GOV.UK: overseas visitor charging guidance