TL;DR
As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr explains what you need to know about private medical insurance in the UK. This guide explores whether migrant workers need private health cover in addition to their rights to use the National Health Service (NHS). Do migrant workers need PMI in addition to NHS rights?
Key takeaways
- Relying solely on the NHS: This is the most cost-effective option, as access is typically covered by your visa's Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). You will receive comprehensive care, but you may face lengthy waits for diagnosis and treatment.
- Adding a PMI policy: This involves a monthly premium but gives you the ability to bypass NHS waiting lists for eligible conditions. It provides speed, choice, and comfort when you might need it most.
- You can register with an NHS GP surgery.
- You can access hospital treatment for free.
- You are covered for emergency and non-emergency care.
As an FCA-authorised broker that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr explains what you need to know about private medical insurance in the UK. This guide explores whether migrant workers need private health cover in addition to their rights to use the National Health Service (NHS).
Do migrant workers need PMI in addition to NHS rights?
If you are a migrant worker in the UK, you are generally entitled to use the National Health Service (NHS). However, the critical question is whether NHS access alone is sufficient for your needs. While the NHS provides excellent care, long waiting lists for non-urgent treatment can be a significant concern.
Private Medical Insurance (PMI) is an optional insurance policy that runs alongside your NHS rights. It doesn't replace the NHS – especially for emergencies – but it offers a valuable alternative for eligible, non-urgent conditions.
The decision to get PMI comes down to a trade-off:
- Relying solely on the NHS: This is the most cost-effective option, as access is typically covered by your visa's Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS). You will receive comprehensive care, but you may face lengthy waits for diagnosis and treatment.
- Adding a PMI policy: This involves a monthly premium but gives you the ability to bypass NHS waiting lists for eligible conditions. It provides speed, choice, and comfort when you might need it most.
For many migrant workers, whose ability to work and earn is paramount, the peace of mind and rapid access offered by PMI can be a crucial investment in their health and financial stability.
Understanding Your NHS Rights as a Migrant Worker in the UK
Before deciding on private cover, it’s vital to understand what you're already entitled to. Most migrant workers coming to the UK for more than six months are required to pay the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS) as part of their visa application.
What is the Immigration Health Surcharge (IHS)?
The IHS is a mandatory fee that allows you to use the NHS on the same basis as a permanent UK resident. Once paid, you do not need to pay for most NHS hospital treatments or appointments with a General Practitioner (GP).
As of early 2025, the standard IHS fee is £1,035 per person, per year of your visa. There are reduced rates for students and those on the Youth Mobility Scheme.
Paying the IHS means:
- You can register with an NHS GP surgery.
- You can access hospital treatment for free.
- You are covered for emergency and non-emergency care.
However, some services still have a charge for everyone in the UK, including prescriptions (in England), dental treatment, and optical services.
Who is Exempt from the IHS?
A key group of migrant workers is exempt from paying the IHS. If you have a Health and Care Worker visa, you and your dependants do not have to pay the surcharge. You get access to the NHS for free as a recognition of your contribution to the UK's health and social care system.
The table below summarises NHS access for migrant workers:
| Visa Type | Pays IHS? | NHS Access Level |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Worker Visa | Yes | Full access, same as a UK resident. |
| Health and Care Worker Visa | No | Full access, same as a UK resident. |
| Student Visa | Yes (at a reduced rate) | Full access, same as a UK resident. |
| Spouse / Family Visa | Yes | Full access, same as a UK resident. |
| Tourist / Visitor Visa | No (pay for treatment) | Access to emergency care; must pay for it. |
Essentially, if you are living and working in the UK on a long-term visa, the NHS is your primary healthcare provider. The debate is about whether it's your only provider.
The Reality of NHS Waiting Times: Why People Consider PMI
The single biggest reason people in the UK, including migrant workers, opt for private medical insurance is to avoid long waiting lists. While the NHS is world-class in emergencies, the waiting times for planned procedures, known as 'elective care', can be substantial.
According to the latest NHS England statistics from late 2024, the situation is challenging:
- Total Waiting List: The overall waiting list for consultant-led elective care stands at around 7.5 million treatment pathways.
- Median Wait: The median time people are waiting to start treatment is approximately 15 weeks after a GP referral.
- Long Waits: Hundreds of thousands of patients are waiting over 52 weeks (a full year) for their treatment to begin.
For a migrant worker, a long wait isn't just an inconvenience; it can have serious consequences:
- Impact on Income: If a health issue prevents you from working, a year-long wait for surgery could mean a year of reduced or no income.
- Job Security: Prolonged sickness absence can put your employment at risk.
- Quality of Life: Living with pain or a debilitating condition for months on end affects your mental health and overall well-being.
- Family Commitments: If you are supporting family back home, any disruption to your earnings can have a significant knock-on effect.
Real-Life Example: Imagine Ana, a 35-year-old software engineer from Brazil, living in Manchester. She develops severe knee pain from a running injury. Her NHS GP refers her to an orthopaedic specialist. The waiting time for an initial consultation is 20 weeks, and the subsequent wait for an MRI scan and potential keyhole surgery could be another 9-12 months. During this time, her pain makes commuting difficult and affects her concentration at work.
With a PMI policy, Ana could see a private specialist within a week, have an MRI scan the following week, and be scheduled for surgery within a month, allowing her to get back to full health and productivity quickly.
What is Private Medical Insurance (PMI) and What Does it Actually Cover?
Private Medical Insurance is designed to cover the costs of private treatment for acute conditions that develop after you take out a policy. An acute condition is a disease, illness, or injury that is likely to respond quickly to treatment and lead to a full recovery.
The Golden Rule: Acute vs. Chronic and Pre-existing Conditions
This is the most important concept to understand about standard UK private health cover.
- PMI Covers: Acute Conditions. Examples include a hernia requiring surgery, cataracts, joint replacement, or treating a newly diagnosed cancer.
- PMI Does NOT Cover: Chronic Conditions. A chronic condition is one that is long-lasting and needs ongoing management rather than a one-off cure. Examples include diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure, and arthritis. The NHS remains your provider for managing these conditions.
- PMI Does NOT Cover: Pre-existing Conditions. This refers to any illness or injury you had symptoms, advice, or treatment for before your policy started. Most policies exclude these, at least initially.
What's Typically Covered vs. Not Covered by PMI?
Policies vary, but most are built around a core set of benefits. You can then add optional extras to create a more comprehensive plan.
| Usually Covered by PMI | Usually NOT Covered by PMI |
|---|---|
| In-patient and Day-patient Treatment: Surgery and procedures where you need a hospital bed. | Chronic Conditions: Ongoing management of conditions like diabetes, asthma, or hypertension. |
| Consultant and Specialist Fees: The cost of the experts treating you. | Pre-existing Conditions: Any medical issue you had before the policy began. |
| Diagnostic Tests: MRI scans, CT scans, X-rays, and blood tests to find out what's wrong. | Emergency Treatment (A&E): You should always call 999 or go to an NHS A&E in an emergency. |
| Cancer Care: Often a core benefit, covering chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and surgery. | Routine GP Services: You continue to use your NHS GP. (Though some plans offer virtual GP access). |
| Out-patient Cover (often optional): Consultations and tests that don't require a hospital bed. | Normal Pregnancy and Childbirth: Complications may be covered, but routine maternity care is not. |
| Mental Health Support (variable): Cover for therapy or psychiatric treatment. | Cosmetic Surgery: Procedures for purely aesthetic reasons are excluded. |
By covering the cost of prompt diagnosis and treatment for new, curable conditions, PMI provides a solution for the very issues caused by long NHS waiting lists.
The Key Benefits of PMI for Migrant Workers
For someone who has moved to the UK for work, the advantages of having private medical insurance UK are particularly powerful.
1. Speedy Access to Diagnosis and Treatment
This is the primary benefit. Instead of waiting months, you can often see a specialist and begin treatment within weeks. This minimises the time you spend in pain or discomfort and, crucially, reduces the time you might be unable to work.
2. Choice and Control Over Your Healthcare
With PMI, you have more say in your treatment journey. You can:
- Choose your specialist: You can research and select a leading consultant in their field.
- Choose your hospital: You can opt for a hospital from your insurer's approved list, often based on location, reputation, or facilities.
- Choose your timing: You can schedule appointments and procedures at times that are convenient for you, helping you manage work and family commitments.
3. Enhanced Comfort and Privacy
Private hospitals typically offer a more comfortable environment than a busy NHS ward. Benefits often include:
- A private, en-suite room.
- More flexible visiting hours for family and friends.
- A quieter, more restful environment to recover in.
4. Access to Advanced Treatments and Drugs
Some comprehensive PMI policies provide access to specialist drugs, treatments, or procedures that may not yet be approved for use on the NHS due to cost or other factors. This can be particularly important in fields like cancer care.
5. Peace of Mind
Moving to a new country comes with its own set of stresses. Knowing that you and your family can access fast, high-quality medical care if you become unwell provides invaluable peace of mind. It removes the worry of "what if?" and allows you to focus on your work and building your new life in the UK.
How Does PMI Work for a Migrant Worker? A Step-by-Step Guide
Using your PMI policy is a straightforward process that works in partnership with the NHS.
- See Your NHS GP: Your healthcare journey almost always starts with your NHS GP. If you have a medical concern, you book an appointment with them as usual. The GP assesses you and, if they feel you need specialist care, they will write you a referral letter.
- Contact Your PMI Provider: With your referral letter, you call your insurance provider's helpline. You'll need to provide your policy number and details of your symptoms and the GP's recommendation.
- Get Your Claim Authorised: The insurer will check your policy to ensure the condition and recommended treatment are covered. They will then authorise your claim and give you an authorisation number. They can also provide a list of approved specialists and hospitals.
- Book Your Private Treatment: You can now contact the private hospital or specialist's secretary to book your consultation or treatment, quoting your PMI authorisation number.
- Focus on Recovery: The private hospital will send the bills directly to your insurance company. You only need to pay the 'excess' on your policy (if you have one). The rest is handled for you, leaving you to focus on getting better.
Understanding PMI Costs and How to Manage Them
The cost of private health cover varies widely based on several factors. Working with an expert PMI broker like WeCovr can help you find a policy that fits your budget and needs.
Key Factors Influencing Your Premium
- Age: Premiums increase as you get older, as the statistical risk of needing treatment rises.
- Location: Treatment costs are higher in certain areas, particularly London and the South East, so premiums are often higher for residents there.
- Level of Cover: A basic policy covering only in-patient treatment will be cheaper than a comprehensive one with full out-patient, mental health, and dental cover.
- Excess (illustrative): This is the amount you agree to pay towards the cost of any claim. A higher excess (e.g., £500) will significantly lower your monthly premium compared to a £0 excess.
- Hospital List: Insurers have different tiers of hospital lists. A policy that gives you access to every private hospital in the UK will cost more than one with a more limited local network.
Example Monthly PMI Premiums
The table below gives an indication of potential costs. These are illustrative estimates and your actual quote will depend on your specific circumstances.
| Age Bracket | Location | Basic Cover (In-patient, £500 excess) | Comprehensive Cover (Full out-patient, £250 excess) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-year-old | North of England | £35 - £50 per month | £60 - £85 per month |
| 30-year-old | London | £45 - £65 per month | £75 - £100 per month |
| 45-year-old | North of England | £60 - £80 per month | £90 - £120 per month |
| 45-year-old | London | £75 - £100 per month | £110 - £150 per month |
Understanding Underwriting
When you apply for PMI, you'll choose a type of 'underwriting', which is how the insurer assesses your medical history.
- Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common type. You don't have to declare your full medical history upfront. Instead, the policy automatically excludes treatment for any condition you've had symptoms, medication, or advice for in the 5 years before the policy starts. However, if you then go for 2 continuous years on the policy without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition, it may become eligible for cover.
- Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): With FMU, you complete a detailed health questionnaire. The insurer assesses your medical history and tells you upfront exactly what is excluded from your policy. This provides more certainty but can take longer to set up.
WeCovr: Your Expert Partner in Finding the Right PMI
Navigating the UK's private medical insurance market can be complex, especially if you are new to the country. This is where an independent, expert broker like WeCovr can be invaluable.
As an FCA-authorised broker with high customer satisfaction ratings, WeCovr works for you, not the insurance companies. Our service is provided at no extra cost to you.
Here’s how we help:
- Understand Your Needs: We take the time to understand your circumstances as a migrant worker, your health priorities, and your budget.
- Compare the Market: We use our expertise to compare policies from all the UK's leading PMI providers, including Bupa, AXA Health, Aviva, and Vitality, to find the best fit.
- Explain the Jargon: We cut through the confusing terminology to explain policies in plain English, ensuring you understand exactly what is and isn't covered.
- Find the Best Price: Our relationships with insurers mean we can find competitive pricing and the right combination of benefits for your money.
Furthermore, WeCovr customers get exclusive perks, including complimentary access to our AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app, CalorieHero, to support your health goals. We also offer discounts on other types of insurance, such as life or income protection cover, when you take out a PMI policy.
Beyond Treatment: Wellness and Added Benefits
Modern PMI policies offer much more than just hospital treatment. Many now include a suite of value-added benefits designed to keep you healthy and provide convenient access to everyday healthcare. These can be especially useful for migrant workers.
- Digital/Virtual GP Services: Get a GP appointment via phone or video call, often 24/7. This is perfect for getting quick advice, prescriptions, or referrals without waiting for an NHS GP appointment.
- Mental Health Support: Many policies now include access to telephone counselling lines or a set number of therapy sessions, providing crucial support for the stresses of work and relocation.
- Wellness Programmes: Some insurers, like Vitality, reward you for staying active. You can earn points for going to the gym, tracking your steps, or completing health checks, which can be redeemed for cinema tickets, coffee, or even discounts on your premium.
- Health and Fitness Discounts: Get reduced membership fees at popular UK gym chains.
These benefits help you manage your health proactively and provide a convenient first port of call for minor issues, which can be a huge comfort when you are far from your home country's support system.
Migrant Workers and Health: Practical Tips for Staying Well in the UK
While insurance provides a safety net, the best approach is to stay as healthy as possible. Adjusting to a new country, culture, and climate can take its toll. Here are some practical tips.
- Build a Balanced Diet: The UK has a huge variety of fresh food available in supermarkets. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables, and lean protein. If you miss food from home, explore international supermarkets found in most cities, which can be a great way to cook familiar, healthy meals.
- Stay Active: Make use of the UK's beautiful parks for walking, jogging, or cycling. Even 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day can boost your physical and mental health. Consider joining a local sports club to stay fit and meet new people.
- Prioritise Sleep: Good sleep is essential for a strong immune system and mental clarity. Try to maintain a regular sleep schedule, even on weekends. If you do shift work, invest in blackout curtains and earplugs to create a restful environment.
- Look After Your Mental Wellbeing: Moving abroad is a huge life change. It's normal to feel homesick or overwhelmed. Stay connected with family and friends back home through video calls. Explore your new area, find hobbies, and don't hesitate to use the mental health resources available through your employer or your PMI policy if you have one.
- Register with a GP: As soon as you have a permanent address, register with a local NHS GP. This is your gateway to all NHS services, so it's a crucial first step.
By combining a proactive approach to your health with the security of a well-chosen private medical insurance policy, you can ensure you are fully prepared for your new life in the UK.
Can I get PMI if I have a pre-existing medical condition?
Do I need private medical insurance to get my UK work visa?
Does PMI for migrant workers also cover my family?
Ready to explore your options? Get a free, no-obligation quote from WeCovr today. Our expert team will compare the market to find the right private medical insurance for your needs and budget, giving you peace of mind and fast access to healthcare in the UK.
Sources
- Office for National Statistics (ONS): Mortality, earnings, and household statistics.
- Financial Conduct Authority (FCA): Insurance and consumer protection guidance.
- Association of British Insurers (ABI): Life insurance and protection market publications.
- HMRC: Tax treatment guidance for relevant protection and benefits products.
