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. 

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