Just moved to Walthamstow? Here is how to get a GP

What you need to register: nothing

Moving house comes with a long list of things to sort out. Registering with a GP is one of the quicker ones, and it is worth doing before you need us rather than when you are already unwell. Anyone in England can register with a GP free of charge, whatever their nationality or immigration status.

You do not need:

• proof of address
• photo ID or a passport
• an NHS number
• proof of immigration status
• a tenancy agreement or mortgage paperwork

How long it takes

1. 1

   Complete the NHS registration form online

   About five minutes, from your phone. One form per person.

2. 2

   We process your registration

   Most registrations are processed on the same working day, and your records transfer from your old practice automatically.

3. 3

   Start using the practice

   Contact us online during opening hours whenever you need medical help, and nominate a local pharmacy for your repeat prescriptions.

Registering your family or your child

You can register everyone in your household with us, including babies and children. Complete a separate registration for each person; a parent or guardian can register a child under 16. Once you are all registered, your family's care, vaccinations and records sit with the same team.

If you have moved into the area with a newborn, register the baby as soon as you can so their childhood vaccinations and checks are not delayed.

Your records and your medication

You do not need to contact your old surgery. Registering with us removes you from their list and starts the electronic transfer of your medical records. If you take regular medication, bring a copy of your repeat prescription list or your medicine boxes to your first contact with us so nothing is interrupted, and nominate a pharmacy near your new home in the NHS App.

Useful once you have registered

Questions people ask after moving

I have just moved to Walthamstow. How do I register with a GP?

Complete the NHS registration form online for our practice. It takes about five minutes and most registrations are processed on the same working day. You do not need to contact your old surgery: once you are registered with us, your medical records are transferred electronically.

What do I need to register with a GP after moving?

Nothing. You do not need proof of address, photo ID, an NHS number, a tenancy agreement or proof of immigration status. Anyone in England can register with a GP free of charge.

How long does it take to register with a GP after moving house?

The online form takes about five minutes. Most registrations are processed on the same working day, and we can generally offer clinical access on the day you register. Your records usually arrive from your previous practice within a few weeks.

Can I register my whole family or my child?

Yes. Complete a separate registration for each person, including babies and children. A parent or guardian can register a child under 16.

Do I need to tell my old GP surgery that I have moved?

No. Registering with us automatically removes you from your previous practice's list and starts the transfer of your records.

What happens to my repeat prescriptions when I change GP?

Bring a copy of your current repeat prescription list or the medicine boxes to your first contact with us so we can continue your medication without a gap. Nominate a local pharmacy in the NHS App so your prescriptions go to the right place.

I am staying in Walthamstow only for a short time. Can I still see a GP?

Yes. If you are in the area for less than three months you can register as a temporary patient and stay registered with your usual practice.