I Can’t Afford the Medical Bill I Received in the UK

Question:

Dear Steve,

I had a baby in the UK 5yrs ago via cesarean section. I was given a bill of 4500 pounds in which i was only able to pay 500. as i was a student and not working also a single mother. I have been back to my country since then in order to get a job and not to overstay my visa.

Will this debt affect me from getting a visa. i have been offered a job in the UK and planning to settle my debt over a period of 4months.

Banky

Answer:

Banky,

I have heard of the NHS billing non-residents of the UK or visitors for medical care, but this is the first time someone has said they actually received a bill.

I am also surprised as students receive health care here in the UK, in most instances for free.

I would guess and imagine the bill may have either been written off by the NHS now, or if it was passed onto a collection agency, also probably written off.

Have you had any contact from anyone regarding the balance of the bill?

To my knowledge the debt should not affect your getting a Visa here, however, you may wish to confirm this with who is sponsoring you for the Visa, depending on which form of Visa you are qualifying for.

As to settling the debt, you may find this difficult as if it has been written off, it may be difficult for the NHS, or whomever holds the debt to locate it to collect the settlement.

You can begin by getting a copy of your credit history here once you have completed your move back to the UK.

Please post your responses in the comments below.

Regards,

Jon