Visitor Visa for Medical Treatment in the UK

If you plan to come to the UK to receive private medical treatment or to donate an organ, whether you need a medical visa will depend on your nationality and intended duration of stay.

In this guide, we explain the rules for overseas nationals looking to come to the UK for medical reasons, including when you need a UK medical visa, the visa requirements and application process, and how to apply to extend your visa.

 

Section A: Who Needs a UK Medical Visa?

 

Overseas nationals from countries on the UK’s visa nationals list under “Appendix Visitor: Visa national list” of the Immigration Rules have to apply for a visa for entry clearance prior to visiting the UK for medical purposes.

There is no specific medical visa for the UK. Instead, you would apply for a UK Standard visitor visa, which allows visa nationals to come to the UK for medical treatment. This could include coming to the UK to either receive private medical treatment at a hospital or at another medical facility. It could also include coming to the UK to have treatment at an NHS hospital, provided the care is funded by your own government under a reciprocal healthcare arrangement. You can also come to the UK with this visa if you have agreed to act as an organ donor for a family member or close friend, or to be assessed for suitability as a potential donor.

So-called non-visa nationals – whose country of nationality does not feature on the visa nationals list – do not usually need a visa to visit the UK for medical reasons, provided their visit will last no longer than six months and that they do not intend to undertake any activity not permitted under the UK’s Immigration Rules, including work. Non-visa nationals should, however, check if they need to apply for an ETA to come to the UK.

Non-visa nationals coming to the UK for more than six months will need to get a medical visa UK in advance of travel.

 

Section B: Medical Visa Requirements

 

There are various eligibility requirements for all visitors seeking entry to the UK, together with certain additional criteria where you are applying to visit for medical reasons.

 

1. Standard visitor requirements

 

Under the standard criteria, all visitors are required to satisfy UKVI that they are a “genuine visitor”. This means that you must be able to prove to UKVI that:

 

a. you will be leaving the UK at the end of your stay

b. you will not be living in the UK for extended periods through frequent or successive visits

c. you will not make the UK your main home

d. you are genuinely seeking entry for medical reasons

e. you will not be undertaking any prohibited activities as set out under the Rules

f. you have enough money to cover all of your reasonable costs in the UK, without working or accessing public funds, including the cost of your return or onward journey.

 

If the cost of travel, maintenance and accommodation in the UK is to be covered by a third party, UKVI must be satisfied that a genuine personal or professional relationship exists between you and that person. They must also be satisfied that this person is not or will not be in breach of any UK immigration laws, and that they can and will provide you with full financial support for the entire duration of your stay in the UK.

 

2. Medical visitor requirements

 

Under the additional criteria for visitors coming to the UK to receive private medical treatment, you must satisfy the following eligibility requirements:

a. if you have been found to be suffering from a communicable disease, you must have satisfied the medical inspector that you are not a danger to public health

b. you must have arranged your private medical treatment in the UK before you travel

c. you must provide a letter from either your doctor or consultant in the UK detailing the medical condition requiring consultation or treatment, plus the estimated costs and likely duration, which must be finite, and where the consultation/treatment will be taking place

d. if you plan to receive NHS treatment under a reciprocal healthcare arrangement between the UK and another country, you must provide an authorisation form issued by the government of that country

e. if you are applying to come to the UK for up to 11 months, you must also provide either evidence from your doctor or consultant based in the UK that the proposed treatment is likely to exceed 6 months, but no more than 11 months, or if you intend to receive NHS treatment under a reciprocal healthcare arrangement, an authorisation form which states that the proposed treatment is again likely to exceed 6 months, but not 11 months
provide a valid medical certificate which confirms that you have undergone screening for TB, if applicable.

 

Under the additional criteria for visitors coming to the UK to donate an organ or be assessed as a potential donor match, you must satisfy the following eligibility requirements:

 

a. you must genuinely intend to donate one of your organs to, or be assessed as a potential donor for, an identified recipient in the UK with whom you have either a genetic or close personal relationship

b. you must provide written confirmation of tests to show that you are a donor match for the identified recipient, or that you are undergoing further tests to be assessed as their potential donor

c. you must provide a letter, dated no more than 3 months before your intended date of arrival in the UK from either the lead nurse or coordinator of the UK NHS Trust’s Living Donor Kidney Transplant team — or a UK registered medical practitioner

d. who holds an NHS consultant post or appears in the Specialist Register of the General Medical Council — which confirms that you meet the relevant requirements, as well as when and where the planned organ transplant or medical tests will take place in the UK

e. you must be able to show, if you are required to do so, that the identified recipient is currently lawfully present in the UK or will be at the time of the planned transplant.

 

Section C: How to Apply for a Medical Visa for the UK

 

The first step in the visa application process is to fill out the online visa application form, which can be found on the UK Government’s official website. You will need to provide personal information, details about your medical condition, and the treatment you will be receiving in the UK. Make sure to double-check all information for accuracy before submitting the form.

After submitting your application, you will need to attend a visa application centre to provide your biometric information, which includes your fingerprints and a photograph. This step is mandatory and helps to verify your identity.

The application process includes a visa fee, which must be paid online during the application submission. The cost of a medical visit visa for the UK depends on the duration of your stay. For a stay of up to 6 months, the visa fee is £115. For a stay of more than 6 months but not exceeding 11 months, the visa fee is £200.

In some cases, you may be asked to attend an interview at the visa application centre. During the interview, you may be asked questions about your medical condition, the treatment you will receive, and your plans in the UK. Be prepared to discuss your application in detail and provide any additional information that may be requested.

After completing all the steps, you will need to wait for a decision on your visa application. Processing times can vary, but you can track the status of your application online. If your application is approved, you will receive a vignette (a sticker in your passport) that allows you to enter the UK.

 

Section D: Required Documents for UK Medical Visa Application

 

When applying for a medical visa UK, in addition to a passport or other valid travel document, you will need to provide various documents in support of your application.

Document	Description
Valid Passport	A current passport that is valid for the duration of your stay in the UK. It must have at least one blank page for the visa vignette.
Visa Application Form	A completed online application form available on the UK Government’s visa and immigration website.
Biometric Information	Fingerprints and a photograph taken at a visa application centre.
Confirmation of Acceptance for Treatment	A letter from a UK hospital or clinic confirming your medical treatment details, including the treatment plan, duration, and costs.
Medical Evidence	A letter from your doctor or consultant in your home country explaining your medical condition and why treatment in the UK is necessary.
Financial Proof	Evidence showing you can afford your medical treatment and stay in the UK. This may include bank statements, savings accounts, or a letter from a sponsor.
Accommodation Details	Information about where you will be staying during your treatment, such as a hotel booking or a letter from a friend or relative.
Travel Itinerary	Details of your travel plans, including flight bookings and any other travel arrangements.
Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) Receipt	Proof of payment of the IHS, if applicable. This surcharge allows access to the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) during your stay.
Tuberculosis (TB) Test Certificate	A medical certificate confirming you are free from TB, required if you are from a country where TB testing is mandatory. The test must be conducted at an approved clinic.
Invitation Letter from Sponsor	If someone is sponsoring your trip, a letter from them detailing their relationship to you and their commitment to support you financially.
Proof of Return Travel	Evidence of your intention to return to your home country after your treatment, such as a return flight ticket.

 

 

First, you will need to satisfy UKVI that you meet all of the standard eligibility criteria relevant to the visitor route. As such, you will need to prove that you are genuine visitor and intend to return home after you have received your medical treatment, or donated an organ or been assessed as a potential match. This could include, for example, proof that you have family commitments to return to or that you own or rent a property overseas.

You must also show that you are able to fund your travel costs and support yourself during your stay in the UK, where you will need to provide evidence of your financial resources, such as wage slips or bank statements, as well as details of where you plan to stay. If your UK trip is being funded by a third party, that party should provide a signed written undertaking to be responsible for any maintenance and accommodation costs.

You will also need to provide the relevant documentary evidence as required under the additional criteria for visitors seeking entry to the UK to receive private medical treatment, or to donate an organ or be assessed as a potential donor. This must include evidence from the relevant medical professionals involved in your treatment or procedure.

Importantly, the evidence required in support of the medical visa UK can be complex, where it is often wise to seek the advice and assistance of a specialist in immigration law. Given that time may be of the essence in the context of receiving medical treatment or agreeing to be an organ donor, it is absolutely essential that your application is approved first time round, where having a legal expert to help with the application process and gather the necessary documentation can help to maximise the prospects of a successful outcome.

 

Read our comprehensive guide to UK visa application supporting documents here >> 

 

Section E: Medical Visa Fee & Processing Times

 

For a stay of up to 6 months, the medical visitor visa fee is £115. For a stay of more than 6 months but not exceeding 11 months, the visa fee is £200.

The earliest you can apply for a medical visa UK is 3 months before you travel. Having submitted your online application for a visa, you should get a decision from UKVI within 3 weeks of attending your appointment at an overseas visa application centre.

Depending on what country you are applying from, you may be able to pay to get a quicker decision on your visa application by using a priority or super priority service. You will need to check with the visa application centre in the country in which you are currently based.

 

Section F: Extending a Medical Visa

 

If you know in advance that your medical treatment will last longer than 6 months, and the documentation provided in support of your application clearly demonstrates this, UKVI should grant you an initial stay of up to 11 months. Alternatively, you can initially apply for a visa for up to 6 months and subsequently apply to stay for a further 6 months when you are in the UK at an additional cost of £1,000.

There is no maximum limit on the number of times that you can extend your stay in the UK, provided you meet the following requirements:

a. you have paid for any medical treatment that you have already received in the UK

b. you can and will pay the additional costs of your medical treatment

c. you continue to meet the eligibility requirements for a medical visa UK.

 

However, it will cost you £1000 each time you apply to extend your stay for medical reasons, regardless of your nationality. You will also need to apply for an extension while you are still in the UK and prior to expiry of your existing visa. In support of an extension application for a medical visa UK, you will need to provide the following:

a. written evidence from a medical practitioner or NHS consultant who is registered in the UK to provide details of your medical condition that needs further treatment
b. if you are having ongoing treatment at an NHS hospital under a reciprocal healthcare arrangement, you will need to provide an additional authorisation form from your country’s government stating that they will pay for your further treatment.

 

When you apply for a visa extension, you will be asked to schedule an appointment at a UK Visa and Citizenship Application Services (UKVCAS) service point to enrol your biometric information and provide your supporting documentation. You must not leave the UK before getting a decision, otherwise you risk having your visa application withdrawn.

 

Section G: Need Assistance?

 

DavidsonMorris are UK immigration specialists. Our dedicated team of legal advisers provide eligibility and application guidance on all aspects of the UK visitor visa, including when travelling to receive private medical treatment

For expert advice on making a Home Office application, contact us.

 

Section H: Medical Visa FAQs

 

What is a Medical Visit Visa?

A Medical Visit Visa allows individuals to enter the UK for the purpose of receiving private medical treatment. This visa is intended for those who require medical care that is not available in their home country or need to undergo specialised treatment in the UK.

 

Who is eligible for a Medical Visit Visa?

Eligibility for a Medical Visit Visa requires that the applicant is seeking private medical treatment in the UK, has made arrangements for their treatment, can afford the treatment and associated costs, and intends to leave the UK once the treatment is completed. Additionally, the applicant must demonstrate that they will not pose a financial burden on the UK healthcare system.

 

How do I apply for a Medical Visit Visa?

To apply for a Medical Visit Visa, you must complete an online application form on the UK Government’s visa and immigration website. After submitting the form, you need to provide supporting documents, attend a biometric appointment, and pay the visa fee. In some cases, you may also be required to attend an interview.

 

What documents are required for a Medical Visit Visa application?

The required documents include a valid passport, a letter from a doctor or consultant in your home country explaining your medical condition, a confirmation letter from a UK hospital or clinic detailing the treatment plan and costs, proof of financial means to cover the treatment and stay, and details of your accommodation in the UK.

 

How long does it take to process a Medical Visit Visa?

Processing times for a Medical Visit Visa can vary depending on the volume of applications and other factors. It is advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel date. Typically, it can take a few weeks to receive a decision.

 

What is the visa fee for a Medical Visit Visa?

The visa fee for a Medical Visit Visa is subject to change, so it is important to check the current fee on the UK Government’s official website before you apply. The fee is paid online during the application process.

 

Do I need to provide biometric information for a Medical Visit Visa?

Yes, you are required to provide biometric information, which includes your fingerprints and a photograph. This is done at a visa application centre and is a mandatory part of the application process.

 

Can I bring a companion with me on a Medical Visit Visa?

If you require assistance during your medical treatment, you may apply for a visa for a companion. The companion must also meet the visa requirements and apply separately. They should provide evidence of their relationship to you and their role in assisting you during your treatment.

 

What should I do if my Medical Visit Visa application is refused?

If your application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the refusal. You may have the option to request an administrative review or appeal the decision, depending on the circumstances. It is important to address the reasons for refusal if you choose to reapply.

 

How long can I stay in the UK on a Medical Visit Visa?

A Medical Visit Visa typically allows you to stay in the UK for up to six months, and in some cases 11 months. If your treatment requires a longer stay, you may need to apply for an extension, provided you meet the necessary criteria and can justify the need for an extended period.

 

How do I get a medical visa for the UK?

To obtain a medical visa UK, you will need to submit an online application from outside the UK and pay the fee. You may also need to attend an appointment at an overseas visa application centre with your supporting documentation.

 

What documents do I need for medical visa?

To be approved for a medical visa UK, you will need detailed and documentary evidence from the relevant medical professionals involved in your treatment or the procedure for donating an organ, where seeking advice from an immigration specialist is advisable.

 

How much is a medical UK visa?

The cost of applying for a medical visa UK to visit for up to 6 months is £100. The application fee for a private medical treatment visa lasting more than 6 months but not more than 11 months is £200.

 

How long does it take to get medical visa in UK?

To apply for a medical visa UK from overseas, the processing time for UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) to make a decision is usually no more than 3 weeks. You may also be able to pay for a faster decision.

 

Section I: Glossary

 

Term	Definition
Biometric Information	Physical data, such as fingerprints and a photograph, collected to verify an individual’s identity. Required as part of the UK Medical Visitor Visa application.
Confirmation of Acceptance for Treatment	A letter from a UK hospital or clinic confirming your medical treatment details, including the treatment plan, duration, and costs. This document is crucial for your visa application.
Financial Proof	Documentation showing that you can afford your medical treatment and stay in the UK. This may include bank statements, savings accounts, or a letter from a sponsor.
Medical Evidence	A letter from your doctor or consultant in your home country explaining your medical condition and why treatment in the UK is necessary.
Visa Application Centre (VAC)	A centre where applicants submit their biometric information and any required documentation for their visa application.
Visa Fee	The cost associated with applying for a visa, which must be paid online during the application process. The fee amount can vary, so it is important to check the current fee on the official UK Government website.
Vignette	A sticker placed in your passport indicating that a visa has been granted. For a Medical Visitor Visa, it shows the valid entry dates for the UK.
Entry Clearance	The permission granted by a visa, allowing entry into the UK. This is documented by the vignette in your passport.
Principal Statement	A detailed statement provided by your employer outlining your job title, salary, and other key employment terms, required for certain visa types.
Fast-Track Visa Service	An expedited service that processes visa applications more quickly for an additional fee. This service is useful for urgent medical treatment cases.
Sponsor	A person or organisation that supports your visa application, often providing financial or logistical assistance. In the context of a medical visa, this could be the UK hospital or clinic where you will receive treatment.
Immigration Rules	The legal framework governing who can enter and stay in the UK, including the requirements for various types of visas.
Tuberculosis (TB) Test	A medical test required for visa applicants from certain countries to prove they are free from TB before entering the UK. The test must be conducted at an approved clinic.
Appeal	The process of challenging a visa decision if your application is refused. You may request an administrative review or lodge an appeal based on the grounds provided in the refusal letter.

 

 

Section J: Additional Resources

 

UK Government Official Visa and Immigration Website
https://www.gov.uk/standard-visitor-visa/visit-for-medical-treatment
The UK Government’s official website provides comprehensive information on visa types, application processes, eligibility criteria, and required documentation.

 

NHS Guidelines for Overseas Visitors
https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad/moving-to-england/healthcare-if-you-move-to-england/
The NHS website offers guidance on the healthcare services available to overseas visitors, including information about private medical treatment in the UK. This resource is useful for understanding the healthcare landscape and the type of medical care you can expect.

 

UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA)
https://www.ukcisa.org.uk/Information–Advice/Visas-and-Immigration/Other-types-of-visa
Although primarily aimed at international students, UKCISA provides valuable information regarding visas, healthcare, and staying in the UK for extended periods, which can be relevant to those applying for medical visas.

 

British Embassy or Consulate Websites
https://www.gov.uk/world/embassies
The official websites of British embassies and consulates in your home country provide local information about applying for a UK visa, including medical visitor visas. They often offer specific advice and updates relevant to applicants from their regions.