Coronavirus (COVID-19): Testing and treating overseas visitors, asylum seekers and refugees
People who have come to Scotland to work, study or claim asylum (including refugees) will not pay for any coronavirus tests or treatments they need.
Legislation
The Scottish Government have introduced emergency legislation (The National Health Service (Charges to Overseas Visitors) (Scotland) Amendment Regulations 2020) so all overseas visitors in Scotland will not be charged for the diagnosis and treatment of the coronavirus.
Overseas visitors include:
- migrants (regardless of your immigration status)
- overseas students
- overseas workers
- tourists and holidaymakers
- refugees and asylum seekers (regardless of your legal status)
Immigration
The Scottish Government decide how healthcare is provided in Scotland. This is not linked to immigration control, which is a matter for the Home Office.
NHS Scotland does not pass patient details to the Home Office for the purpose of immigration enforcement.
Testing and treatment
If you think you might have symptoms of coronavirus (a new continuous cough, fever or loss of, or change in, sense of smell or taste (anosmia)), stay at home and follow our guidance for households with possible infection.
You will not be charged for:
- testing if you think you have symptoms, even if the test shows you don’t have coronavirus
- treatment to ease your symptoms if you have the virus
You will always receive immediate or urgent healthcare in Scotland regardless of your immigration status or ability to pay at the time (if charges apply).
Latest guidance about coronavirus in Scotland
Further information
More about your rights when accessing care in Scotland:
Source: NHS Scotland
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