GP Practice Registration: Required Documents
To register as a new patient at our practice, you must provide supporting documentation to confirm your eligibility for Health and Social Care (HSC) services in Northern Ireland.
Please ensure you provide one document from each of the three lists below, along with the appropriate registration form.
List 1: Proof of Lawful Presence
This confirms you have the legal right to be in the UK.
- Valid Passport or EEA National Identity Card
- Birth Certificate (and Marriage/Civil Partnership Certificate if your name has changed)
- Certificate of Naturalisation
- Proof of EU Settlement Status (Share Code)
- Valid Visa or Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) issued by the UK Home Office
- Current UK, Irish, or EEA Driving Licence
List 2: Proof of Residing in Northern Ireland
This confirms you are currently living at a Northern Ireland address.
- Current NI Rates Bill (dated within the last 12 months)
- Utility Bill (Gas, Electricity, or Landline — Mobile phone bills are not accepted)
- Signed Tenancy Agreement (must be a formal, typed agreement) or Mortgage Statement
- Current Bank Statement for an active account showing your current address
- Home Insurance Policy showing your current address
- Letter confirming receipt of UK/NI State Pension or Benefits paid into an NI bank account
List 3: Proof of Settled Purpose
This confirms your reason for living in Northern Ireland (e.g., work or study).
- Recent Payslip showing your employer’s address and your National Insurance Number
- Letter from HMRC with your Unique Tax Reference (UTR) or Self-Assessment return
- Letter from a University or College confirming your enrollment
- HMRC Tax Credit Award
- Letter from the Department for Communities (DfC) regarding Social Security benefits
- S1 Form (for those receiving a State Pension from an ROI or EEA country)
Which Form Do I Need?
- Moving from within the UK? Please complete Form HS200. This is for patients already registered with a GP in Northern Ireland, England, Scotland, or Wales.
- Moving from outside the UK? Please complete Form HSC/R1. This applies if you were born outside the UK or have been living outside the UK for more than 12 months.
Note: If you are registering a child, please bring their Birth Certificate and Red Book (Personal Child Health Record) if available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take to process my registration?
Once we receive your completed forms and supporting documents, it typically takes 5–10 working days for your details to be verified and added to our system. You will be notified once the process is complete.
Can I register without a fixed address?
Yes. If you are currently homeless or in temporary accommodation, you can still register. Please speak to our reception team directly, and we will guide you through the process using a “No Fixed Abode” registration.
What if I don’t have all the documents listed?
The Business Services Organisation (BSO) requires these documents to confirm eligibility for free Health and Social Care. If you are struggling to provide a specific item (for example, if you just moved and don’t have a utility bill yet), please contact us. We may be able to accept alternative proof of residency.
Do I need to provide my National Insurance (NI) Number?
Yes, providing your NI number helps ensure your records are accurately linked to your previous medical history within the UK.
Can I register if I am just visiting Northern Ireland?
If you are a visitor and require urgent medical treatment, we can see you as a “Temporary Resident” for up to three months. However, full registration is only available to those who are “ordinarily resident” in Northern Ireland.
What about my children?
Children under 16 must be registered by a parent or guardian. You will need to provide the child’s Birth Certificate and, if possible, their Red Book (Vaccination Record) so we can update their immunization history.
When can I book my first appointment?
You can book an appointment once your registration has been fully processed. We recommend all new patients over the age of 5 book a New Patient Health Check with our practice nurse to review your medical history and current medications.