All people in the UK have a right to access NHS maternity care, regardless of citizenship or immigration status.
It is important to be aware, however, that not everyone is entitled to maternity care, free of cost. This will depend on whether one is ‘ordinarily resident’, which can include foreign nationals. Ordinarily resident means that a person is living in the UK lawfully, voluntarily and for settled purposes.
If you are charged for maternity costs and do not know why, or wish to challenge this, you can contact Maternity Action. They are an organisation that support and advocate for pregnant people and new parents within the UK, helping with issues such as employment and healthcare.
You can visit their website here, where you will find an advice helpline per region.
Also see this information from the NHS about what you can do when you find out you’re pregnant.
If you are experiencing difficulties accessing maternity care because you are travelling, please contact the Friends, Families and Travellers helpline on 01273 234 777. We are open Monday to Friday, 10am to 4.30pm excluding bank holidays.
This is for information only. FFT does not endorse any organisation shared on the FFT website.
Correct as of March 2024.
