New to London? Your Complete Healthcare Guide for 2026
Moving to London is exciting, but navigating a new healthcare system can be confusing, especially when you need a doctor before your NHS registration is complete. This guide covers everything you need to know: how to register with an NHS GP, what to do if you need medical care immediately, how to sort out prescriptions for medication you already take, which vaccinations you may need, and how to set yourself up for long-term health in your new city. The Online GP by The Wellness provides immediate private GP access from our Marylebone clinic with no registration, no NHS number, and no waiting, bridging the gap until your NHS care is in place and serving as your ongoing private GP if you prefer.
New to London? We Can Help - WhatsApp | Email: team@thewellnesslondon.com | Call: 020 3951 3429
Step 1: Register With an NHS GP (But Do Not Wait for It)
Registering with an NHS GP is important for long-term, free primary care access. The process involves finding a GP surgery near your home that is accepting new patients (use the NHS website's "Find a GP" tool), completing a GMS1 registration form, and waiting for the registration to be processed (typically 1 to 2 weeks, sometimes longer). Some practices may ask for proof of address, though legally you cannot be refused registration for not having one. You do not need an NHS number, proof of immigration status, or ID to register, though providing these can speed up the process.
The challenge is that many London GP practices have closed their lists due to high patient demand. You may need to try several surgeries before finding one that is accepting patients. And even once registered, your first appointment may not be available for days or weeks.
This is where a private GP fills the gap. At The Online GP by The Wellness, you can be seen the same day you contact us, with no registration process at all. Use us for immediate needs (prescriptions, acute illness, vaccinations, health checks) while your NHS registration works its way through the system.
Step 2: Sort Out Your Medications
If you take regular medication for any condition, running out during a move is stressful and potentially dangerous. Do not wait until your NHS GP is set up. A private GP can issue prescriptions the same day.
Bring your current medication (in its original packaging if possible), a recent prescription or medication list from your previous doctor, details of the prescribing doctor or pharmacy if available, and information about your diagnosis and how long you have been on the medication. Our doctors will identify the UK equivalent, verify that the dose and formulation are appropriate, and issue a private prescription you can take to any UK pharmacy. For ongoing repeat prescriptions, once your NHS GP is registered, your NHS GP can take over prescribing on the NHS (free or at the standard NHS prescription charge of £9.90), saving you the cost of ongoing private prescriptions.
Prescription Renewal - WhatsApp
Step 3: Check Your Vaccinations
The UK vaccination schedule may differ from your home country's. Key vaccines to check include MenACWY (meningitis, free on the NHS up to age 25 for university students), MenB (meningitis B, available only privately for adults; strongly recommended in light of the 2026 Kent outbreak), MMR (measles, mumps, rubella, two doses needed; free on the NHS at any age as a catch-up), HPV (available free on the NHS if you missed it and are eligible), and TB testing (may be required for certain visa applications).
At The Online GP by The Wellness, our doctors can review your vaccination history (bring any records you have), identify gaps, and administer all necessary vaccines in a single appointment. We also offer the full range of travel vaccines if you plan to travel onward from London.
Step 4: Establish a Health Baseline
Moving to a new city is a natural moment to take stock of your health. A baseline health check gives you numbers to track against in the future and may identify issues you did not know about. Our options range from a targeted blood panel (from £195) to the Executive Body Scan (£695), which combines comprehensive blood work with multi-organ ultrasound and a detailed doctor consultation.
Common findings in new London arrivals include vitamin D deficiency (especially if you have moved from a sunnier climate and are now spending more time indoors), iron deficiency (particularly in women), and elevated stress markers. Catching these early means simple interventions that make a real difference to how you feel.
For Families Moving to London
If you are moving with children, healthcare setup includes registering the whole family with an NHS GP, ensuring children's vaccinations are aligned with the UK schedule (bring the red book or equivalent records from your home country), registering with an NHS dentist (often harder than registering with a GP), and identifying your nearest A&E, walk-in centre, and pharmacy.
At The Online GP by The Wellness, we see patients of all ages, from babies to grandparents. The whole family can be assessed in a single visit, with vaccinations reviewed and administered, prescriptions sorted, and any health concerns addressed.
For International Students
If you are starting university in London, your priorities are registering with your university health service or a local NHS GP, getting MenACWY vaccination (free on the NHS up to age 25), strongly considering MenB vaccination (private only), ensuring you have two doses of MMR, and having a plan for accessing healthcare outside university hours.
The Online GP by The Wellness is used by international students from universities across London. No registration needed. Same-day appointments. Multilingual doctors. Full range of services from vaccinations to mental health support.
Your Ongoing Private GP
Many patients who discover The Online GP by The Wellness during their transition to London choose to stay. The reasons are straightforward. Same-day access whenever you need it, without the NHS appointment lottery. Longer consultations with a doctor who takes time to listen. On-site diagnostics (blood tests, ultrasound) with fast results. Continuity of care with the same doctor who knows your history. And the peace of mind that comes from knowing you can always see a doctor when you need one.
You can use us alongside your NHS GP (many patients do) or as your primary GP. Either way, we are here whenever London life throws a health concern your way.
Start Your London Healthcare Journey - WhatsApp | Email: team@thewellnesslondon.com | Call: 020 3951 3429
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I access healthcare when I first arrive? Register with an NHS GP (takes 1-2 weeks) and use a private GP immediately for any needs in the meantime.
How long does NHS registration take? Typically 1 to 2 weeks. Some practices have closed lists. A private GP has no registration or waiting.
What if I have run out of medication? Same-day private prescription. Bring your medication or a recent prescription. From £49 by phone.
Do I need vaccinations? Possibly. MenACWY and MMR are recommended for students. MenB is strongly recommended privately. TB testing may be required for visas.
Can I use the NHS if I am from overseas? Depends on your visa and immigration status. Private GP is available to everyone with no restrictions.
Can you be my regular GP? Yes. Continuity of care, medical records, ongoing prescriptions, and the full range of services.
The Online GP by The Wellness provides private doctor-led healthcare from our Marylebone clinic. Contact us on WhatsApp at +44 7961 280835, email team@thewellnesslondon.com, or call 020 3951 3429.
References
NHS. Register with a GP surgery. NHS.uk. Updated 2025.
UKHSA. Vaccinations for new university students. Updated 2026.
NHS. How to access NHS services if you are visiting or moving to England. Updated 2025.
Gov.uk. Immigration Health Surcharge. Updated 2026.
