How to Call NHS-Related Services From Abroad (What Actually Works)
8/27/2026
Quick answer: NHS 111 doesn't work from outside the UK at all, it's a shortcode with no international version. But two specific NHS Business Services Authority teams do have real overseas numbers: Overseas Healthcare Services (S1 forms and GHIC) at +44 191 218 1999 or +44 191 283 3909, and Immigration Health Surcharge reimbursements at +44 191 283 8937.
Why "the NHS" isn't one thing to call
The NHS isn't a single organization with one phone number, it's a collection of services: emergency care, GP surgeries (each running its own line), NHS 111 triage, and separate national bodies like the NHS Business Services Authority that handle specific administrative functions. Most of that only makes sense to call while you're physically in the UK. The pieces that genuinely matter from abroad are narrower, and that's what this guide covers.
Verified numbers at a glance
| Service | Number (from abroad) | Notes | Full guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| NHS 111 | No number works from abroad | Shortcode only, use 111 online or the NHS App instead | Can you call NHS 111 from abroad? |
| Overseas Healthcare Services (S1) | +44 191 218 1999 | For UK pensioners living in the EU, EEA, or Switzerland | Call NHS Overseas Healthcare Services from abroad |
| Overseas Healthcare Services (GHIC) | +44 191 283 3909 | GHIC cards and other overseas healthcare queries | Call NHS Overseas Healthcare Services from abroad |
| Immigration Health Surcharge reimbursement | +44 191 283 8937 | For a partial refund if you left the UK before your visa expired | Call about an IHS refund from abroad |
Each guide above covers what to have ready and the best time to call for that specific service.
The cheaper way to actually make the call
Once you have a real number to dial, roaming or international calling-card rates still apply the whole time you're on hold. With DialVia, you call any of these real UK numbers over Wi-Fi from your browser instead:
- Open DialVia and sign up (about 30 seconds)
- Select United Kingdom as the destination
- Enter the number
- Hit call
Frequently asked questions
Can I call NHS 111 from abroad? No. It's a three-digit shortcode with no international equivalent. Use 111 online or the NHS App instead.
Who needs to call NHS Overseas Healthcare Services? Mainly UK state pensioners living in the EU, EEA, or Switzerland who need an S1 form, and anyone needing a GHIC card or reimbursement for planned treatment abroad.
Can I get a refund on the Immigration Health Surcharge I paid for my UK visa? Possibly, if you left the UK before your visa expired or fall into an exempt category. Call +44 191 283 8937 to check.
What should I do for an actual medical emergency while abroad? Call the emergency number of the country you're currently in. NHS 111 and 999 can't send help to your actual location.
Also need a UK bank or government office's number? See our guides for UK banks and UK government offices.
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