To register permanently with a general medical practice (GP practice) you’ll need to complete a registration form.
You can download this registration form, complete it, and then email it to the GP practice
To save the completed form, choose File > Save As and rename the file.
You may need to download Adobe Acrobat Reader to edit and save your form. For more information on saving forms, visit the Adobe website.
When you want to register with a new GP practice, you’ll need to follow these steps to ensure that your new GP practice has all your medical history and your medical records.
If this is your first registration with a GP practice in the UK, medical records from outwith the United Kingdom won’t be traced.
You can only register with a GP practice if you’re staying in the area for more than 3 months. If you’re not, you may still be treated, but as a Temporary Resident.
You can use Scotland’s Service Directory to find your nearest GP practice.
These results are for guidance only. Even though a GP practice is highlighted from your postcode search, your address may not be served by that GP practice (and you may not be able to register with them).
Once you have chosen a GP practice you should:
The form does not require a signature.
When you register with a GP practice, it’s recommended that you provide information to confirm your:
This means you can be matched to your existing NHS records. You shouldn’t be delayed or refused registration at a GP practice if you can’t provide identification or proof of address.
Anybody in Scotland can access primary care services at a GP practice without charge.
When your registration has been received by the GP practice you’ll be notified, either by telephone or email to advise if your application to register has been successful.
Sometimes, you may not be able to register with a GP practice, for example, if:
You’ll need to register with another GP practice in your area instead.
If you’re having difficulty finding a GP practice in your area that is accepting new patients, you can get in touch with the registration teams within National Services Scotland.
They will be able to provide advice and assist you with the registration process.
You can only register with a GP practice if you’re staying in the area for more than 3 months. If you’re not, you may still be treated but as a Temporary Resident.
You can also use the Access to Healthcare. This is a GP registration card to help you register with a GP Practice. The card gives information on your rights to accessing healthcare. You can find the card on the Health Literacy Place website.
For more information on being treated as a Temporary Resident please contact your nearest GP practice.
You can apply to move to a different GP practice in the same area as your original one. GP practices can accept patients who are already registered with a GP practice in their area.
But, there may be times a GP practice will agree with their local health board to only register patients who are new to the area. The GP practice may do this when there is pressure on their ability to take on new patients. This is to make sure that all patients are registered with a GP practice.
Any restrictions should be temporary and your local health board should be able to tell you when they will be reviewed.
Last updated:
12 July 2024