Moving to another country can be an overwhelming experience. Travel arrangements, accommodation and visa or work permits are obvious things to consider when preparing to move, but what about planning for your healthcare?
If you are moving abroad on a permanent basis, you will no longer automatically be entitled to medical treatment under normal NHS rules. This is because the NHS is a residence-based healthcare system. You'll have to notify your GP so that you and your family can be removed from the NHS register.
Most people will no longer be entitled to use their UK-issued European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to access healthcare in Europe, however there are a few exceptions. Read our EHIC guide for more detailed information.
Make sure you budget for any additional healthcare costs you may face, including health insurance.
Before leaving for your new destination, it is important to check what health services are available to you in that country. Healthcare systems vary from country to country and might not include services you would expect to get free of charge under the NHS.
In most cases you will have to register with the relevant authorities abroad. Once you are registered to work and make national insurance contributions, you'll be entitled to state-run healthcare on the same basis as a resident of that country. However, many countries still expect you to make patient contributions or to join the national health insurance scheme.
Look up the country-by-country guide on this site and find out what rules apply in your chosen country. The Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) also provides useful information for British nationals living abroad on GOV.UK, including information on entry and residence requirements, health, benefits and finance.
Living and working abroad
There are circumstances in which you might be entitled to healthcare paid for by the UK. This will depend on whether you want to live abroad permanently, or only work outside the UK for a set period. The assistance available only applies within Europe and can also depend on whether or not you receive a UK State Pension or other UK benefits. For more detailed information see the relevant sections below.
You will not be covered for healthcare paid for by the UK if you are going to live permanently outside the European Economic Area (EEA). If at any time in the future you want to come back to England for planned treatment, further information about accessing healthcare services can be found on the Visiting or Moving to England pages.
