NHS treatment is not classed as a public fund for immigration purposes. It can be accessed regardless of immigration status, including by a person who has the no recourse to public funds (NRPF) condition.
However, a person’s immigration status may affect whether they have to pay for some types of treatment. If a person has paid the Immigration Health Surcharge, they can usually access most healthcare services without additional charges.
In Wales, primary healthcare is free for people who are ordinarily resident.
A person is usually considered ordinarily resident if they:
Anyone who is not ordinarily resident is considered an overseas visitor.
Primary healthcare providers must assess whether a person is ordinarily resident to decide whether treatment is free or chargeable. However, GPs have discretion to accept overseas visitors as free patients.
Anyone who is registered with a GP can also access free prescriptions in Wales.
Some secondary healthcare services are free for everyone, regardless of immigration status. These include:
Most other secondary healthcare services are chargeable for people who are not ordinarily resident, under the National Health Service (Charges to Overseas Visitors) Regulations 1989.
Local Health Boards must assess whether a person is ordinarily resident when deciding if charges apply.
People who are not ordinarily resident are classed as overseas visitors and may have to pay for NHS treatment unless they are in an exempt group or have already paid for access through the Immigration Health Surcharge.
Some people who are not ordinarily resident are exempt from charges, including:
Hospital treatment is generally chargeable where:
Where treatment is immediately necessary, it must be provided without delay, even if the person cannot pay at the time. Charges may be applied afterwards.
Further information is available from the Welsh Government.
The NHS Low Income Scheme can help with the cost of healthcare, including:
A person may be able to get an HC2 certificate, which gives full or partial help with these costs.
To apply, a HC1W application form must be completed. A person can apply regardless of immigration status. If they have NRPF and receive support from a council, charity or voluntary organisation, they may need to provide evidence of this support.
Further information is available in Welsh Government guidance on the NHS Low Income Scheme.
Page updated: 17 June 2026
