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TB Test Guide for UK Visa Applications

Anne morris.

• 2 November 2021

IN THIS SECTION

If you are planning to come to the UK to stay for over six months and are a resident of one of a number of countries specified by the British Government, you will need to have a tuberculosis (TB) test before you are allowed to enter the country.

The purpose of screening for TB is to detect the presence of lung TB and prevent transmission to others when travelling, while also helping with early detection and treatment where the traveller is unaware of their condition.

After you have been screened for TB, if the tests are clear, you will be issued a TB clearance certificate. The certificate confirms you are free of lung TB and is a mandatory requirement before you can apply for a visa to enter the UK.

Countries where you need a TB test to enter the UK

Pre-entry screening is compulsory for those people who wish to come into the UK and stay for over six months if they are a national of one of the following countries, as listed on the .gov website (as at November 2021). Screening is not required if you are coming to the UK as a tourist .

Do all UK visa applicants need to be tested for TB?

If you are planning to come from a country where TB is common and are applying for a long-term visa, then you must be screened. There are specific screening rules that apply to children under the age of eleven and pregnant women.

Where the screening takes place

The test is taken at your own convenience in your country of residence. It is not done on arrival in the UK. You will need to make an appointment to be screened at a designated and UK government approved clinic in your home country. This is done on behalf of the UK Immigration Authority. You can find a list of approved clinics on the gov.uk website.

Things you will need to take to the appointment

You will need to take two official documents proving your identity, one of which must be your passport. Besides this requirement, you will also need two recent passport sized photographs, payment for your TB screening test, and your medical records. If you have previously had a TB test, you should provide details of the previous results, diagnosis, and any treatment you may have received.

How much does a TB test UK cost?

The clinic fee varies from country to country and covers the consultation, chest X-ray, and the TB clearance certificate. If further tests, such as sputum tests, are thought to be necessary by your doctor, additional costs may be incurred. The clinic fees for the TB test are in addition to the cost of your visa application to the UK Home Office.

What is the TB test procedure?

Although almost all cases of TB can be treated and cured, delays in diagnosis and other factors mean it remains a serious condition. TB can affect any part of someone’s body, but the risk of transmission only happens when the active disease is in the lungs. This means that pre-entry screening only covers active TB in the lungs. This is a type of TB affecting the lungs and can be difficult to diagnose. You may have a chest X-ray to look for changes in the appearance of your lungs that may suggest TB. Samples of phlegm are also often taken and checked for the presence of TB bacteria.

Before screening begins, you will be required to complete the Informed Consent Form at the clinic. The doctor will then ask you about any current health complaints, worries or symptoms you may have, previous illnesses (including TB) and treatment, and whether you have had a friend or relative with TB. If the doctor considers it appropriate they may carry out a physical examination.

Chest X-ray

You will be given a chest X-ray that can identify any changes in your lungs, which may indicate lung TB. Your results are generally ready to be collected within 24 hours. If your doctor does not think you have TB (following consultation and chest X-ray), they will issue you with a TB certificate.

Sputum Test

If your chest X-ray shows areas of concern, or if the test results are inconclusive, your doctor will ask you to provide three samples of sputum (phlegm coughed up from the lungs). This is done in the clinic on three consecutive mornings, so you should be prepared to attend the clinic. The samples you provide will then be analysed under a microscope. Sometimes the TB bacteria can be seen with a special stain process. However, more often the TB bacteria will grow in a culture of the sample you have provided, therefore all samples will be cultured. It is important to note that in these cases, the final diagnosis can take around two months to get.

Are there any exemptions to taking a TB test UK?

There are certain circumstances where you do not have to undergo TB screening. You will not need to take a TB test UK if you are a diplomat accredited to the UK, you are a UK resident returning to the UK providing you have not been away for over two years, or you lived in a country for at least six months where TB screening is not required by the UK and you have not been away from that country for over six months.

Can a whole family be screened together?

If you are intending to come to the UK with your family, the clinic should allow screening of all your family members on the same day.

Children and pregnant women

All children who are coming to the UK and applying for a visa from a listed country are required to show they are free of TB and will need to see a doctor to confirm this.

Children under the age of eleven will not usually be required to have a chest X-ray, however, the child must be taken to an approved clinic to complete a health questionnaire. If the doctor decides your child does not have TB, they will give you a certificate which you should include within your child’s UK visa application.

Pregnant women can request a chest X-ray with an extra shield to protect them and their unborn child in the second and third trimesters or take a sputum test instead. If they decide to take the sputum test, there may be an additional fee and they could have to wait up to eight weeks for the results. Alternatively, they can wait until after the child is born and take the chest X-ray then.

How long is a TB certificate valid for?

A TB clearance certificate is valid for six months from the date it is issued. After you have entered the UK, health authorities may contact you to offer a further screening test for inactive – or latent – TB. This is in addition to the pre-entry screening you had in your home country and is to prevent reactivation of this type of TB.

Testing for latent TB

Latent TB is where someone has been infected with TB, but they do not display any symptoms. For example, if you have been in close contact with someone who is known to have active TB, you may need to have a test or if you have recently spent time or live in a country where TB levels are high.

The Mantoux test is commonly used to test for latent TB. It involves injecting a tiny amount of PPD tuberculin into the skin of your forearm. This may also be called the tuberculin skin test (TST). If you have a latent TB infection, your skin will have a sensitivity to the PPD substance and a small red bump will develop at the injection site, typically around 48 to 72 hours after having the test.

If your skin has a particularly powerful reaction, you may need to go on to have a chest X-ray to confirm if you have active TB. If your skin does not react to the test, you do not have latent TB infection. Although if you have previously received a BCG vaccination, you could have a mild skin reaction to the test, but this does not necessarily mean you have latent TB.

There is a new blood test for TB that is becoming more widely available and is called the interferon gamma release assay (IGRA). The IGRA may be used to help diagnose latent TB if:

• You have had a positive Mantoux test
• You previously had a BCG vaccination – as discussed above, the Mantoux test may not be reliable in such cases
• You have recently moved to the UK from a country where TB is common
• As part of a health check when you register with a GP in the UK
• You are going to have treatment that will suppress your immune system (immunosuppressant treatment)
• If you have come to the UK to be a healthcare worker

How will testing positive for TB affect my visa application?

If you test positive for TB, you will be referred straightaway by your doctor for antibiotic treatment. Although you will not be issued with a clearance certificate, you can reapply following successful completion of your treatment. Your doctor will report your diagnosis of lung TB to your local, regional or national authorities following the requirements of your country. Your doctor will also report your diagnosis to the UK health authorities.

After completing your treatment (generally after six months), you are eligible for re-screening. This will incur an additional fee. Prior to applying for your UK visa, you will need a screening clearance certificate from an approved clinic, confirming you are now free of lung TB.

If you no longer have TB, the certificate will be issued and you can then include it within your visa application. A previous diagnosis of TB will not have any adverse effect on the visa process if you are subsequently certified free of TB.

Need assistance?

DavidsonMorris’ immigration lawyers advise on all aspects of UK visa applications, including entry requirements such as TB testing. For specialist advice, contact us.

TB test for the UK FAQs

How do you get a tb test uk.

You should contact your closest approved clinic directly and book an appointment for a TB screening test; making it clear that you require the test for a UK visa application. You can find your nearest clinic by checking on the gov.uk website.

Can I do TB test in UK?

No. You will need to take the test in your home country before applying for a UK visa to enter the UK. You cannot take the test in the UK.

How much does a TB test cost UK?

The costs of testing varies from country to country and includes the consultation, the screening test, and certificate of clearance. Other tests, such as sputum tests, may be required, which will incur additional costs.

Do I need a TB test every year?

Further testing is not required, providing you have lived at least six months in a country where TB screening is not required by the UK, and you have been away from that country for no more than six months.

Last updated: 2 November 2021

Founder and Managing Director Anne Morris is a fully qualified solicitor and trusted adviser to large corporates through to SMEs, providing strategic immigration and global mobility advice to support employers with UK operations to meet their workforce needs through corporate immigration.

She is a recognised by Legal 500 and Chambers as a legal expert and delivers Board-level advice on business migration and compliance risk management as well as overseeing the firm’s development of new client propositions and delivery of cost and time efficient processing of applications.

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TB Test Certificate Guide for UK Visa Applications

All applicants for long term UK visas from countries where TB is common must be screened for active TB in the lungs as part of their UK visa application.  In this guide to TB screening for the UK we answer a number of frequently asked questions about TB and TB screening requirements for UK visa applications.

Do I need to be tested for TB before coming to the UK?

A tuberculosis (TB) test is required by an Applicant if they are coming to the UK for more than 6 months and they are resident in any of the countries listed by the UK government.

Appendix T: tuberculosis screening of the Immigration Rules reads:

Any person applying to enter the UK as described in paragraph A39, Part 1 General Provisions of the Immigration Rules, must present at the time of application a valid medical certificate issued by a medical practitioner approved by the Secretary of State for these purposes, as listed on the Gov.uk website, confirming that they have undergone screening for active pulmonary tuberculosis and that such tuberculosis is not present in the applicant.

Paragraph A39 of the Immigration Rules reads:

A39. Any person making an application for entry clearance to come to the UK for more than six months or as a fiancé(e) or proposed civil partner applying for leave to enter under Section EC-P:Entry clearance as a partner under Appendix FM, having been present in a country listed in Appendix T for more than six months immediately prior to their application, must present, at the time of application, a valid medical certificate issued by a medical practitioner approved by the Secretary of State for these purposes, as listed on the Gov.uk website, confirming that they have undergone screening for active pulmonary tuberculosis and that this tuberculosis is not present in the applicant.

It is important to note that this requirement applies ‘at the time of application’ and depending on the country of residence, may apply to applications for leave to enter as a fiancé(e) or proposed civil partner, even though a successful application will result in a grant of leave to enter only for a six month period. 

When might a TB certificate not be required?

A TB test is not required in the following circumstances:

• The Applicant is a diplomat accredited to the UK
• The Applicant is a returning resident and they have  not been away for more than 2 years
• The Applicant has lived for at least 6 months in a country where TB screening is not required by the UK and they have been away from a country for no more than 6 months.  

In accordance with paragraph B39 an Applicant seeking leave to enter as a returning resident under paragraph 19, and who has therefore been absent for more than two years, is subject to the requirements in paragraph 39.  

Paragraph C39 reads:

Where a person has lawfully been present in a country not mentioned in Appendix T for more than six months and they are applying for entry clearance as in A39 in a country in Appendix T but have not been in that country or any other country mentioned in Appendix T for more than six months immediately before making their application, they will not be required to produce a medical certificate showing they are free from active pulmonary TB. This does not alter the discretionary powers as in paragraph 39 below.

It is important in considering the application of paragraph C39 to note the use of the word ‘lawfully’.

How long is a TB certificate valid for?

Following a test which shows the Applicant does not have TB, the Applicant will be provided with a certificate which should be submitted with the visa application documents. 

It is important to note the certificate is only valid for 6 months from the date it is issued.  An applicant will therefore need to consider the timing of any application and factor in the practicalities of arranging and travelling to an appointment  at an approved clinic. 

What happens at the TB test at an approved clinic?

An Applicant will need to take to their appointment their passport and one other official document confirming their identity.  In addition they should take two passport photographs and their medical records including, if applicable, any details of a previous diagnosis of TB and treatment. 

Ordinarily an Applicant will be given a chest x-ray to test for TB.  If this is not clear or there are concerns the Applicant may be asked to provide a sputum sample. 

There are special arrangements for children and pregnant women.  All children will need to see a physician who will decide if they need a chest x-ray.  Children under 11 will not usually have a chest x-ray.  A  health questionnaire will be completed and if a clinician makes a decision meaning the child does not have TB they will issue a certificate. 

Pregnant women can choose either an x-ray with extra shield in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters, a sputum test, or to wait until they have delivered.  If opting for the sputum test there may be an extra fee and it can take up to 8 weeks to receive a result. It may be possible to rely on an x-ray taken within the last 3 months at one of the approved clinics.  A clinician at an approved clinic may be able to review this. 

If there is a test positive for TB the Applicant will be referred for treatment; once the treatment is complete they can be re-screened for an additional fee.  A diagnosis will be reported in accordance with the requirements of any country and to the UK health authorities. 

Where will I need to go to be tested for TB?

The list of countries can be accessed: here .  Each country has a list of approved clinics. The valid medical certificate must be issued by a medical practitioner approved by the Secretary of State and appearing on the Gov.uk website.  Clinic fees will depend country to country and are payable  in addition to any UKVI application fees. 

Applicants may  need to take a test in a neighbouring country, for example Applicants from Cape Verde, Guinea Bissau and Mali will need to take a test in Gambia or Senegal and those from Mauritania will need to be screened in Morocco.  This is a practical consideration for many Applicants in planning their visa application. 

General Discretion – Immigration Rules 

Paragraph 39 of the Immigration Rules does give a general discretion for Entry Clearance Officer as there is for an Immigration Officer:

• The Entry Clearance Officer has the same discretion as an Immigration Officer to refer applicants for entry clearance for medical examination and the same principles will apply to the decision whether or not to issue an entry clearance.

What will happen if I apply for a visa and do not supply a TB test certificate?

If an Applicant submits an application and does not provide the TB certificate the entry clearance application is likely to be refused.

Do I require a TB test certificate for an application for leave to remain? 

An Applicant will only need to provide a TB certificate if making an application for entry clearance from outside the UK when required to do so.   There is no requirement to provide a certificate when making an application from within the UK.  

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For expert advice and assistance relating to a TB certificate or any related visa application, contact our immigration barristers on 0203 617 9173 or complete our enquiry form below.

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Overseas TB (Tuberculosis) Testing For UK Visa Applicants

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Table of Content

What is tb (tuberculosis) testing, who needs to have a tb (tuberculosis) test, who is exempt from needing a tb (tuberculosis) test, additional tb testing locations, final words.

If you are applying for a UK work, business, study, family, or any other type of visa, depending on the country in which you live, you may need to have a tuberculosis (TB) test. Approved TB clinics are available in many countries around the world, and some new testing locations have recently been added by the UK Home Office.  In this article, we will explain the UK Visa TB test requirements , who is required to take this TB test, who is exempt, and the location of the additional TB testing clinics.

Tuberculosis (TB) is a type of bacterial infection that is spread through inhaling droplets from the coughs or sneezes of a person with the infection. While TB can be a serious condition, it is normally easily cured with effective and early treatment. TB typically affects the lungs but can also affect the glands, bones and nervous system.

TB screening is carried out to detect the presence of TB in the lungs and prevent the spread of infection to others. For this reason, pre-entry TB screening is mandatory for those coming to the UK for 6 months or more from a country where TB is common. If you are coming to the UK as a tourist, you will not need to have a TB test.

You may need to have a TB test for UK visa if you are planning to stay there for more than 6 months:

• you have been living in one of the countries listed below, or
• have been living in one of the countries listed below in the past 6 months but no longer live there.

Not all countries have approved TB testing centres, hence you may need to get tested in another country.

Not everyone needs a TB test, even if they have been living in one of the above countries. Those who are exempt from this requirement include:

• Ukraine visa scheme applicants
• Diplomats who are accredited to the UK
• Returning UK residents (as long as you have not been away for more than 2 years), and
• Individuals who have lived for at 6 months or more in a country where TB screening is not required by the UK and who have been away from that country for no more than 6 months.

The rules also state that children under the age of 11 do not normally need to have a TB chest x-ray. Children may instead need to have a health questionnaire completed by an approved clinic.

If you are pregnant, while you are not exempt from having a TB test, you can request:

• extra shielding when you have your x-ray to protect you and your unborn child in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters
• a sputum test – this may incur an additional fee on TB test for UK visa fees , and it may take longer for the results to be available
• to wait until after the delivery of your baby.

The rules also state that pregnant women who do not want to be tested may be able to use an x-ray taken within the last 3 months at a UK-approved screening clinic.

In recent weeks, the Home Office has updated its guidance on TB testing and added new locations where you can get an approved TB test. The latest guidance published on 30 th November 2022 covers countries such as Iran , Japan , UAE , and the USA . While not on the list of TB testing countries, TB testing centres are available in these additional countries for anyone who needs a test. The full list of additional testing locations include:

Can I book an UK TB test online appointment?

Yes, in very limited circumstances, it is possible to book UK TB test online appointment if you are in the UK and you want to check that the results of a TB test you have already had are correct or if you are applying for the Hong Kong British National (Overseas) visa.

Before applying for a visa to come to the UK, it is always advisable to check if the TB testing requirement applies to you. Many people who assume that they do not require a test risk having their visa application delayed or refused if they have been in a country for which testing is required.

A Y & J Solicitors is a specialist immigration law firm with extensive experience with all types of visa applications. We have an in-depth understanding of immigration law and are professional and results-focused. For assistance with your visa application or any other UK immigration law concerns, please contact us on +44 20 7404 7933 or at contact us today. We’re here to help!

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This page explains the tuberculosis test for visa application to the United Kingdom. Visa applicants can check if they need a TB test and find one of the approved clinics in the listed countries.

TB TEST : Tuberculosis screening laws in the United Kingdom are strict. If you apply for a UK visa you will need to have a tuberculosis (TB) test:

• If you will stay in the UK for longer than 6 months.
• If you are a resident in any of the listed countries.

If these conditions apply to your application you will get a chest x-ray to test for tuberculosis.

You may need to give a sputum sample if the result of the x-ray is not clear. Samples of sputum get tested on the phlegm coughed up from inside the lungs.

The clinic will give you a certificate if the tests show you do not have TB. The certificate is valid for 6 months from the date of the x-ray.

Note : You should include the TB certificate with your application for a UK visa.

TB Test Exemption for UK Visa

There are several situations whereby a TB test is not required. You do not need to get tested for tuberculosis if:

• You are a diplomat who’s accredited to the United Kingdom.
• You are a returning resident to the UK and have not been abroad for more than 2 years.
• You lived in a country where TB screening is not required by the UK (for at least 6 months). You must not have been away from that particular country for no more than 6 months.

Child TB Test for Visa

All children must get examined by a clinician. They will decide whether the child needs a chest x-ray. As a rule, children under 11 years old will not need to get their chest x-rayed.

The child must visit an approved clinic. They will also need to complete a health questionnaire.

You will get the certificate if the clinician determines the child does not have TB.

Tuberculosis Test for Pregnant Women

There are several options for pregnant women who need the test for tuberculosis. The choice is between:

• Using an x-ray that has an extra shield. The additional shield protects you and any unborn children in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters.
• Giving a sputum test (coughing phlegm from your lungs). This method may have an extra fee and the results may take up to 8 weeks.
• Waiting to have the test after the delivery of the baby.

They may also accept an x-ray if it got taken within the last 3 months. But, it must have been at one of the UK-approved screening clinics.

If you use this method the clinician at the approved clinic needs to review your chest x-ray. The clinician will then issue a certificate for you if the test is clear. Remember to send it with your UK visa application.

Listed Countries for a TB Test to Enter the United Kingdom

Note : The test must take place at a clinic approved by the UK Home Office. Check the GOV.UK website for a list of clinics and guidance in your country. But, not all countries have approved testing centers. That means you may need to get tested in a neighbouring country.

Tuberculosis (TB) screening test

Information on who needs to acquire a tuberculosis tests for a skilled worker visa application.

A visa applicant will need to include a Tuberculosis screening test results with their visa application if

• they are coming to the UK for more than 6 months and
• they have been resident in a listed country or countries for six months or more

Those who are resident in these countries must undergo screening of active pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) at a Home Office approved medical practitioner.  Please refer to the  Home Office TB overview page  for the list of countries affected, country-specific guidance in relation to the process and testing for dependants (including children), and the lists of approved testing clinics in each country.

If the visa applicant is free from active pulmonary tuberculosis, the medical certificate should be included in their visa application. The Home Office recommends that the certificate is carried in their hand luggage when travelling to the UK so this can be presented to the immigration officer on arrival.

Where TB is detected a medical certificate will not be issued until after treatment has been received (which can take up to 6 months), the applicant can show that they have had treatment, and that they then are free from TB. It is important that applicants from countries where TB pre-screening is required are tested as soon as possible in advance of their application as additional tests and/or treatment will significantly delay their application to come to the UK.

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Tuberculosis Tests for Visa Applicants

You will need to have a tuberculosis (TB) test if you’re coming to the UK for more than 6 months and are resident in any of these listed countries (external link).  

You will be given a chest x-ray to test for TB. If the result of the x-ray is not clear you may also be asked to give a sputum sample (phlegm coughed up from your lungs). 

If your test shows that you do not have TB, you’ll be given a certificate which is valid for 6 months from the date of your x-ray. Include this certificate with your UK visa application. 

Who does not need to be tested  

You will not need a TB test if any of the following apply: 

• you are a diplomat accredited to the UK 
• you are a returning UK resident and have not been away for more than 2 years 
• you lived for at least 6 months in a country where TB screening is not required by the UK, and you have been away from that country for no more than 6 months 

Children 

All children must see a clinician who will decide if they need a chest x-ray. Children under 11 will not normally have a chest x-ray. 

You must take your child to an approved clinic (external link) and complete a health questionnaire. If the clinician decides your child does not have TB they will give you a certificate. Include this certificate with your child’s UK visa application. 

Pregnant women 

You can choose: 

• an x-ray with an extra shield to protect you and your unborn child in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters 
• a sputum test (phlegm coughed up from your lungs) - there may be an extra fee and you could wait up to 8 weeks for results 
• to wait until after delivery 

If you do not want to be tested you can use an x-ray taken within the last 3 months at a UK-approved screening clinic. Ask a clinician at an approved clinic to review your x-ray. If it’s accepted the clinician will give you a certificate to provide with your UK visa application. 

See Also: 

• Countries where you need a TB test to enter the UK (external link)   

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Tuberculosis Testing Guide for UK Visa Applicants

As part of the application for a long-term UK visa, every candidate from a country where TB is widespread must have a screening for active TB in the lungs. You must take a tuberculosis (TB) test if you plan to stay in the UK for more than six months.

Call our London immigration lawyers on 020 4502 8582 for immediate help & assistance with your situation. We’re here to help you in person, via the phone or online .

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• Why TB Test Is Required for UK Visa

Applicants require tuberculosis (TB) testing if they are coming to the UK for more than 6 months. You need to be aware of the tuberculosis testing requirement if you are resident in any of the UK tuberculosis testing country list .

The purpose of the screening is to identify those who have latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI). LTBI is when a person has the TB bacteria in their body but has no symptoms and cannot spread the disease to others. If you have LTBI and become sick, you may develop active tuberculosis. Active TB disease can be severe and can spread from person to person. The tuberculosis screening test is one way to help protect public health by identifying those who have LTBI and need treatment.

To check for TB, a chest x-ray will be performed. You may be requested to provide a sputum sample if the x-ray results are unclear (phlegm coughed up from your lungs).

A TB certificate valid for six months from the date of your x-ray will be given to you if your test results indicate that you don’t have tuberculosis. This certificate should be submitted with your UK visa application.

Page Contents

Who does not need to be tested, how much does a tb test uk cost, what happens during the tb test at an approved clinic, latent tb testing, how long is the validity of a tb certificate, is tb test required for uk standard visitor visa.

If any of the following are true, a TB test is not necessary:

•  You are a diplomat with the UK.
• You’ve lived in the UK for at least two years and are a returning resident.
• You spent at least six months in a country where the UK does not require TB screening and you haven’t spent more than six months abroad.

Where Will the TB Screening Takes Place

The test must be done at a designated and UK government-approved clinic in your home country, and you will need to make an appointment.

People living in countries with no UK government-approved clinics for TB screening can take the test in neighbouring countries with approved centres. You can find a list of approved clinics on the gov.uk website. The test is taken at your convenience and is not done on arrival in the UK.

In addition to the price of your visa application to the UK Home Office, there are clinic fees for the TB test.

The consultation, chest X-ray, and TB clearance certificate are all included in the clinic charge.

These fees vary depending on which country you have your TB test in.

Your doctor may recommend additional testing, such as sputum tests, which could result in additional fees.

An applicant must bring one other official document proving their identification along with their passport on the appointment day.

They should also provide two passport photos and their medical records, which should include, if appropriate, any information regarding a previous diagnosis and treatment of TB.

Although practically all cases of TB are treatable and curable, it is nonetheless a dangerous condition due to delayed diagnosis and other causes.

Although TB can affect any area of the body, transmission is only possible when the lungs are the site of the disease’s active infection. Pre-entry screening is therefore limited to active lung TB. This form of tuberculosis, which affects the lungs, can be challenging to detect.

A chest X-ray may be performed on you to check for lungs that have changed in appearance that could indicate tuberculosis. Phlegm samples are frequently collected and examined for the presence of TB germs.

You will need to fill out the informed consent form at the clinic before screening can start.

The doctor will then inquire about any current health issues, concerns, or symptoms, past illnesses (including TB) and treatments, and whether you or a close family member have ever had TB.

The doctor may perform a physical examination if they decide it’s necessary.

A chest X-ray will be performed on you to look for any lung abnormalities that could be lung TB. In most cases, your findings are prepared for collection in less than 24 hours.

After consultation and a chest X-ray, if your doctor determines that you do not have TB, they will give you a TB certificate.

Sputum test

A sputum sample may be requested from the applicant if there are any concerns from the result. Your doctor may request three samples of sputum if your chest X-ray reveals any concerning areas or if the test results are uncertain (phlegm coughed up from the lungs). This is done in the clinic on three consecutive mornings; therefore, you should be prepared to attend the clinic.

The samples you supply will next be examined under a microscope for analysis. All samples will be cultured since, more often than not, the TB bacteria will grow in the sample you provided for positive result. A specific staining procedure can occasionally make the TB germs visible.

It is crucial to remember that in these situations, getting the definitive diagnosis can take up to two months. Pregnant women and children are given special consideration, which is explained below.

Every child needs to see a physician to determine whether they require a chest x-ray.

You must bring your child to an approved clinic and fill out a health questionnaire. The clinician will issue you a certificate if they determine that your child does not have TB.

This certificate should be submitted with your child’s UK visa application. Chest X-rays are often not performed on children under the age of 11.

Pregnant women

You can choose either of the options listed below:

• a second and third-trimester x-ray with an extra shield to safeguard you and your unborn child.
• an examination of the phlegm you cough up (sputum) – there can be an additional charge, and findings might not be available for up to 8 weeks after delivery. You can utilize an x-ray obtained recently at a screening facility in the UK if you don’t want to be examined. Request that a doctor at a recognized clinic examines your x-ray. The doctor will issue you a certificate to include with your UK visa application if it is approved.

Do you need help applying for a UK Visa, our team can help. Contact us

When someone has latent TB, they are infected with the disease but do not show any symptoms. You might need a test, for instance, if you have recently been to or were resident in a country with a high TB prevalence rate or if you have lately been in close contact with someone who is known to have active TB.

Latent TB, additionally known as the tuberculin skin test (TST), is frequently tested using the Mantoux test. It entails injecting a very little quantity of PPD tuberculin under your forearm’s skin. If you have a latent TB infection, your skin will be sensitive to the PPD material, and a tiny red bump will appear where you were injected, usually near the injection site.

Your skin will be sensitive to the PPD material, and typically 48 to 72 hours after the test, a tiny red bump will appear at the injection site if you have a latent TB infection.

You might require a chest X-ray to confirm whether you have active TB if your skin reacts extremely. You do not have a latent TB infection if your skin does not react to the test. Although you might experience a slight skin reaction from the test if you’ve previously had a BCG vaccination, this does not necessarily indicate that you have latent TB.

After a test reveals the applicant is TB-free, they will receive a certificate that needs to be included with their visa application materials.

It’s vital to remember that the certificate is only good for six months after it’s granted. The timing of any applications must therefore be taken into account, as well as the logistics of scheduling and travelling to an appointment at an approved clinic.

Where Can I Get A TB Certificate for UK Visa?

You can access the list of countries here . There is a list of approved clinics in every nation. The doctor issuing the legitimate medical certificate must be listed on the Gov.uk website and be approved by the Secretary of State.

Clinic fees are due in addition to any UKVI application fees and vary by country. Candidates may need to take a test in a neighbouring nation. For instance, candidates from Mauritania and Cape Verde will need to be screened in Morocco, while those from Mali, Guinea Bissau, and Senegal will need to take a test in the Gambia or Senegal.

Many Applicants will take this into account practically when organizing their visa application.

Pre-entry TB testing is not necessary for anyone travelling to the UK for six months or less, such as those on business, family, or tourist visas.

What Will Happen If I Don’t Provide A TB Test Certificate When I Apply for A Visa?

The entry clearance application is likely to be rejected if the applicant applies without including the TB certificate.

As of this writing, Ukrainian nationals applying via the family route are exempt from the existing TB testing criteria.

The current advice is as follows:

Paragraph A39 of the immigration regulations’ requirement for a TB test certificate has been temporarily waived.

Kyiv’s TB testing facilities are closed, making it impossible to screen for the disease and receive the necessary certification.

Contact our London immigration lawyers on 0203 617 9173 for professional advice and support, or reach us in person or online.

Last modified on February 2nd, 2023 at 2:12 pm

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Who needs a TB test for their visa application?

To prevent the spread of Tuberculosis (TB), many countries, including the UK, have implemented TB screening and testing measures for visa applicants. In this blog, we will explore the TB test requirement for UK visa applications, helping you determine whether you need to undergo this medical examination as part of your visa process.

Who needs a tb test for their uk visa application.

Not all UK visa applicants are required to undergo a TB test. The necessity of this test depends on several factors, including your visa type and home country, or the countries you have recently visited. Here are the key criteria to determine whether you need a TB test for your UK visa application:

Visa Type: The type of UK visa you are applying for plays a significant role in whether or not you need a TB test. Typically, individuals applying for a UK visa that involves a stay of more than six months and who are coming from countries with a high incidence of TB are more likely to require a TB test. Such visas may include student visas, work visas, and family visas.

Home Country or Recent Travel History: The requirement for a TB test is often linked to your country of residence or recent travel history. If you are a citizen or resident of a country with a high TB incidence, you are more likely to be asked to undergo the test. You can find a list here.

Exemptions: Some categories of applicants are exempt from the TB test requirement. You will not need a TB test if any of the following apply:

• you’re a diplomat accredited to the UK
• you’re a returning UK resident and have not been away for more than 2 years
• you have lived in a country where TB screening is not required by the UK for at least 6 months, and you’ve been away from that country for no more than 6 months

Obtain a Certificate: If the test results are negative, you will receive a certificate indicating that you are free from active TB. This certificate is a crucial document for your visa application. You will need to include the TB test certificate with your visa application to demonstrate compliance with the UK’s health  screening requirements.

How Gherson can assist

Gherson’s Immigration Team are highly experienced in advising on UK visa matters. If you have any questions arising from this blog, please do not hesitate to  contact us  for advice, send us an  e-mail , or, alternatively, follow us on  Twitter ,  Facebook ,  In stagram , or  LinkedIn  to stay-up-to-date.

The information in this blog is for general information purposes only and does not purport to be comprehensive or to provide legal advice. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the information and law is current as of the date of publication it should be stressed that, due to the passage of time, this does not necessarily reflect the present legal position. Gherson accepts no responsibility for loss which may arise from accessing or reliance on information contained in this blog. For formal advice on the current law please do not hesitate to contact Gherson. Legal advice is only provided pursuant to a written agreement, identified as such, and signed by the client and by or on behalf of Gherson.

© Gherson  2023

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Entering the UK and the TB test requirement

Those who are resident in certain countries and applying to enter the UK must hold a valid, negative, Tuberculosis (TB) test certificate. We explore this requirement in more detail.

Those applying to enter the UK must meet a number of requirements, depending on the immigration route they are applying under. One of the most common requirements is a negative TB test .

Who must meet the TB test requirement

The TB test requirement only applies to those who are:

• coming to the UK for more than six months; and
• resident in a listed country .

Visit visa applicants would therefore not normally need to meet this requirement, even if resident in a listed country, as they would be coming to the UK for less than six months. There is a specific requirement for those applying under the fiancé(e) or proposed civil partner to meet this requirement, even though their period of permission is up to six months.

The TB test requirement does not apply to those who:

• have lived for at least six months in a country where TB screening is not required by the UK; and
• have been away from that country for no more than six months.

For instance, if you are applying from India (where TB testing is required) but have only resided there for two months, having lived in Saudi Arabia (where TB testing is not required) for the past two years, this requirement does not apply to you.

In addition, the TB test requirement does not apply to those who are:

• a diplomat accredited to the UK; or
• a returning UK resident who has not been away for more than two years; or
• applying under Appendix EU or Appendix EU (Family Permit).

How to meet the TB test requirement

If an applicant must meet the TB test requirement, it is important they attend an approved clinic. Each country’s approved clinics are listed here . A certificate from a clinic which is not on the approved list will not be accepted.

To book an appointment, a fee must be paid and an address of where the applicant intends to stay in the UK must normally be provided (this can be a proposed address if firm plans have not been made). Applicants should normally take with them to the appointment:

• a valid ID document;
• passport sized photos on a white background and standard size 2”x2” (normally two- three pictures are required); and
• medical notes and x-ray results if they have had TB in the past or any other lung disease.

Different centres may also request additional documents, such as evidence of a polio vaccination certificate.

Applicants undergo a chest x-ray. If the results of this are not clear, they may have to give a sputum sample. If the result is negative, a certificate is provided that is valid for six months.

Although all children must still attend an approved clinic, children under 11 will not normally have a chest x-ray and instead will need to complete a health questionnaire. A certificate, in a similar format to adult certificates, is provided.

Pregnant women must still meet this requirement, but can choose one of the following options:

• an x-ray with an extra shield; or
• a sputum test; or
• to wait until after delivery; or
• use an x-ray taken within the last three months at a UK-approved screening clinic, that has been reviewed.

The certificate

The TB test certificate should be provided with the other supporting documents as part of the immigration application. If the certificate is not provided this can lead to a refusal.

It is advisable for the applicant to keep the certificate with them in their hand luggage when they travel to the UK, although this should not be required in most cases.

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By Nick Gore | 11 October 2022 | Personal . Business .

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UK: TB Test Requirement For UK Visa Applicants Explained

In the Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules (HC1780) , published on 07 September 2023, the Home Office introduced Appendix Tuberculosis (TB) ; the change was implemented on 05 October 2023. Paragraph 7.24 of the Explanatory Memorandum to The Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules (HC1780) outlines the reasons for the change:

"7.24 We are replacing rules A39, B39 and C39, and Appendix T with a new Appendix Tuberculosis, which provides greater clarity and consistency on the TB requirement, and are making associated consequential changes to individual routes where the new Appendix Tuberculosis will apply in place of the current rules."

Paragraphs 36-39 of the Immigration Rules still contain references to medical examinations.

Do I Need To Be Tested for TB Before Coming to the UK?

A tuberculosis (TB) test is required if a UK visa applicant is coming to the UK for more than 6 months and they have been continuously present in a relevant country or countries for 6 months or more, which includes a period (of any length) within the 6 months before the date of application. The relevant countries are listed in TB6. of the Appendix.

Appendix Tuberculosis (TB) reads as follows:

• "TB1. A person must provide a valid TB certificate with their application if paragraph TB2 applies, and they are applying for entry clearance to come to the UK:
• (a) for more than 6 months, except for applications made under Appendix Ukraine Scheme; or
• (b) as a fiancé(e) or proposed civil partner under Appendix FM: family members; or
• (c) as a returning resident in accordance with Appendix Returning Residents."

When Might a TB Test Certificate Not Be Required?

A TB test certificate is not required if an applicant is a diplomat accredited to the UK or the Applicant is a returning resident, they have not been away for more than 2 years and their leave has not therefore lapsed.

How Long Is a TB Test Certificate Valid For?

A UK visa applicant will need to show they have undergone screening for active pulmonary tuberculosis and that this tuberculosis is not present in them. The applicant will be provided with a certificate which should be submitted with the visa application documents.

An applicant applying for a UK visa must show the certificate was issued within the 6-month period immediately before the date of application and has not expired. The date of application is the date the UK visa application form is submitted online and any relevant fees are paid. It is important to note that a TB test certificate is only valid for 6 months from the date it is issued. An applicant will therefore need to consider the timing of their clinic appointment and factor in the practicalities of arranging it and travelling to the approved clinic.

What Happens During a TB Test at an Approved Clinic?

A UK visa applicant will usually undergo a chest x-ray to test for TB. If this is not clear or there are concerns, the applicant may be asked to provide a sputum sample.

There are special arrangements for children and pregnant women. All children will need to see a physician who will decide if they need a chest x-ray. Children under 11 will not usually have a chest x-ray. A health questionnaire will be completed and if a clinician makes a decision meaning the child does not have TB, they will issue a certificate.

Pregnant women can choose either an x-ray with extra shield in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters, a sputum test, or to wait until they have delivered to be tested. If opting for the sputum test there may be an extra fee and it can take up to 8 weeks to receive a result.

If there is a positive test for TB the Applicant will be referred for treatment; once the treatment is complete they can be re-screened for an additional fee.

Where Will I Need to Go to Be Tested for TB?

The list of relevant countries an applicant for a UK visa will need to consider can be found in TB6. of the Appendix. Each country has a list of approved clinics that can be accessed here. The Appendix requires that the valid medical certificate must be issued by a medical practitioner approved by the Secretary of State and appearing on the Gov.uk website . Clinic fees and appointment arrangements will depend country to country and clinic fees are payable in addition to any UKVI application fees. Where no clinic is available in the country they reside in – applicants may need to take a test in a neighbouring country. This is a practical consideration for many in planning their visa application. Other countries do have approved TB test clinics.

Discretion To Waive the UK Visa TB Test Requirement

The Appendix allows for the TB test requirement to be waived:

"TB5. The decision maker may waive the requirement to provide a valid TB certificate if they are satisfied that the applicant is unable to obtain a certificate and it is reasonable to waive the requirement on the specific facts of the case."

You may wish to seek legal advice regarding any application involving arguments to waive the TB test requirements. The merits will depend on the individual facts and circumstances.

What Happens if I Apply for a Visa and Do Not Supply a TB Test Certificate?

Not providing a TB certificate with an application may lead to refusal. It is possible an applicant may be required to provide a new valid TB certificate before the application for entry clearance is granted, if the TB certificate provided with their application expired more than 6 months before the date on which the application is considered and all other requirements are met.

Do I Require a TB Certificate for an Application for Leave To Remain?

An applicant will only usually need to provide a TB certificate if making an application for entry clearance from outside the UK. Those applying for or extending a Hong Kong BN(O) visa from within the UK may need to consider obtaining a TB certificate. Approved UK clinics can be accessed here .

The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.

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Politics latest: Nadhim Zahawi to stand down at general election - and nods to Shakespeare in flamboyant announcement

Nadhim Zahawi, the MP for Stratford-on-Avon, has confirmed he will not be standing at the next general election. This takes the number of current Conservatives who have announced they are stepping aside to 64.

Thursday 9 May 2024 10:35, UK

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• Houchen condemns 'chaos' in Tory party after re-election as Tees Valley mayor
• 'Parting is such sweet sorrow': Zahawi to stand down at election
• Read his statement in full
• Starmer facing backlash from MPs after Elphicke defects to Labour
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• Live reporting by Faith Ridler

Rishi Sunak has met with university bosses in Downing Street to call on them to take a "zero tolerance" approach to antisemitism.

The prime minister invited vice-chancellors of leading universities for a meeting to address the rise in antisemitic abuse on campus and disruption to students' learning.

Jewish students have said they face a "toxic" environment as a growing number of Pro-Palestine encampments are set up at universities in response to the Israel-Hamas conflict.

While there has not been violent scenes like those seen in the US, the Union of Jewish Students (UJS) has warned the rhetoric emanating from these encampments "is increasing in hostility" - and called on university leaders to do more to keep Jewish students safe.

Representatives from the UJS were also in attendance.

The size of the waiting list for routine hospital treatment in England was unchanged in March, following five consecutive monthly falls.

An estimated 7.54 million treatments were waiting to be carried out at the end of March, relating to 6.29 million patients, the same numbers as in February, NHS England said.

The list hit a record high in September 2023 with 7.77 million treatments and 6.50 million patients.

Meanwhile, the number of people waiting more than 12 hours in A&E departments in England from a decision to admit to actually being admitted was 42,078 in April, down slightly from 42,968 in March, NHS figures show.

The record high for a calendar month is 54,573, which occurred in December 2022.

The number waiting at least four hours from the decision to admit to admission fell from 140,181 in March to 134,344 in April.

Some 74.4% of patients in England were seen within four hours in A&Es last month, up from 74.2% in March and the highest figure since April 2023.

The NHS recovery plan set a target of March this year for 76% of patients attending A&E to be admitted, transferred or discharged within four hours.

By Alix Culbertson , political reporter

MPs have warned about an increasing shortage of vets due to post-Brexit visa and food security requirements.

A scarcity of vets poses a danger to protecting animal and human health, the UK's £4.2m meat, dairy and egg export trade, and guaranteeing animal welfare and food security, according to a letter from Tory MP Sir Robert Goodwill, chair of the environment, food and rural affairs committee.

The letter to Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Secretary Steve Barclay calls for more funding for veterinary degrees, higher salaries for public health vet roles and a reduction in the minimum salary required to obtain a skilled visa for overseas vets.

MPs on the committee spoke to veterinary sector leaders in March and said the shortage of vets has worsened since a reduction of 11.5% in 2018, however, due to a lack of data "we have no clear picture of the scale or nature of the shortages".

They said a shortage is of particular concern as due to Brexit there are more biosecurity measures for animals coming into the UK, food and animal certification has changed and it is harder to recruit vets from overseas.

You can read more from Sky News below:

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen has hit out at the "chaos" in the Tory party and said responsibility "ultimately lies with Rishi (Sunak)".

His victory was one of the few bright spots for the Conservatives in an otherwise dismal set of local elections last week.

But he told BBC Radio Tees: "Things don't look great for the Conservative party at the moment."

He said: "There is still a way through but that way through is getting narrower by the day."

Asked if Mr Sunak was to blame, Lord Houchen said: "There's lots of people fighting with each other in the Conservative Party, there are defections going on and ultimately the public do not vote for parties who are not united and are not presenting a united front and also aren't talking to the public.

"If they're fighting with each other like rats in a sack instead of saying to the public 'this is what we're going to do for you', that doesn't win elections.

"Obviously, it ultimately lies with Rishi but there are lots of people that need to get their act together, stop messing about and start talking to the public about what they can offer them, rather than just fighting with each other."

John Swinney is Scotland's new first minister.

Humza Yousaf announced he was stepping down last week after little more than a year in the hot seat.

Former deputy first minister John Swinney won the SNP leadership contest and went on to receive the backing of Holyrood to take over as the seventh Scottish first minister.

Former finance secretary Kate Forbes had been tipped to join him, but later announced she would not stand and instead threw her support behind Mr Swinney.

You can read more from our Scotland reporter Jenness Mitchell here:

By Tomos Evans , Wales reporter

The Welsh parliament has voted to approve an increase of more than 50% in its number of members.

The Senedd, located in Cardiff Bay, currently has 60 members - but the now-approved government plans will see that figure rise to 96.

This week marks 25 years since the Welsh Assembly, as it was then known, conducted its first election.

The Senedd Reform Bill needed a supermajority of the Senedd - two thirds of members - to give it the green light.

Fourty-three members voted in favour of the bill on Wednesday evening, with 16 against.

The Sky News live poll tracker - collated and updated by our Data and Forensics team - aggregates various surveys to indicate how voters feel about the different political parties.

With the local elections complete, Labour is still sitting comfortably ahead, with the Tories trailing behind.

See the latest update below - and you can read more about the methodology behind the tracker  here .

We just discussed the UK media regulator's new rules for social media companies designed to keep children safe online with the technology minister, Michelle Donelan.

The new Ofcom rules include age verification and reformulating algorithms to keep children away from "toxic" content. But parents whose children have died as a result of exposure to harmful content have called the rules an "insult".

You can explore this more on the Sky News Daily, on which  Niall Paterson is joined by technology correspondent at the Financial Times Cristina Criddle to discuss what the measures are and how they can be delivered.

Niall is also joined by John Carr, who is on the government's principal advisory body for online safety and security for children, to discuss the challenges of enforcing the rules and if they go far enough to protect children.

Anneliese Dodds, the Labour party chair, has said it would be "totally inappropriate" if Natalie Elphicke was offered a peerage after joining Labour.

The Conservative MP crossed the floor shortly before Prime Minister's Questions yesterday, the second former Tory member to do so in two weeks.

Another - Christian Wakeford - made the same move in 2022.

Ms Dodds said: "Of course Natalie Elphicke is the third Conservative MP now to have taken that decision to have been clear that the Conservative Party can't deliver the change that our country needs, that it's only Labour that's got a plan to turn our country around, give Britain its future back. 

"And so, you know, very obviously she did make that decision in dramatic fashion yesterday. But following after two other Conservative MP have done the same."

The frontbencher is asked how Ms Elphicke's defection has gone down in the party, and whether her move suggests Labour is lacking principles.

"I don't think anyone who reads Natalie Elphicke's statements could come to that conclusion," Ms Dodds says.

"She's very clear in that statement that she believes it's only Labour that can deliver the hope and optimism that our country needs and it's only Labour that can deliver on issues that matter to her constituents.

"And she's specifies the conservative failures on migration. 

"The fact only Labour has a plan to deliver on migration, the kind of security that we need in the future, but also that it's only labour that has a plan to deliver the homes that are desperately needed."

Ms Elphicke is not standing for her seat in Dover at the next general election.

 After a disastrous set of local election results, Rishi Sunak remains in Downing Street, but his party is moving on.

Over the weekend, former homer secretary Suella Braverman made her pitch to the party in a rather personal attack on the prime minister.

On Wednesday, Robert Jenrick made his .

His intervention couldn't have come at a more pertinent moment.

Less than a three hours later, Natalie Elphicke, who represents the constituency of Dover, where illegal boat crossings are a major issue, crossed the floor to join the Labour Party .

Many Tories were left bemused that Ms Elphicke, who has always been on the right of the party and just months ago was being hugely critical of Sir Keir Starmer's immigration policy, had jumped ship.

But it speaks to the splintering of a party that really has lost its way, that in same day on the same subject, one Conservative talks of the threat of Reform when it comes to migration policy while another defects to Labour.

Read Beth's full analysis here:

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