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Tuberculosis (TB) test for visa applicants

If you are coming for more than 6 months from certain countries, you need a TB test at an approved clinic before applying.

Mandatory Applies to: Whole UK

Go to the official website: gov.uk

Official links

Who handles it

Step by step

  1. Check the list of countries: you need a test if you are coming for 6 months or more and have lived in a listed country recently.
  2. Book at a clinic approved by the Home Office. Some countries have none, so you may need to go to another country.
  3. Have the chest x-ray (and a sputum test if the x-ray is unclear). Children see a clinician who decides if they need an x-ray.
  4. Include the certificate with your visa application. It is valid for 6 months from the x-ray.

What you need

  • The TB certificate from the approved clinic, for each person who needs one.
  • For children: the health questionnaire completed at the clinic.

Common mistakes

  • Getting tested at a clinic that is not approved by the Home Office: the certificate will not be accepted.
  • Testing too early: the certificate expires 6 months after the x-ray.

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