A1.5 Tuberculosis Test

Tuberculosis (TB) Testing for UK Visa Applicants – September 2025 Update

 

When You Need a TB Test

You must take a TB test if all of the following apply:

1. You plan to stay in the UK for 6 months or longer

2. You have lived continuously for 6 months or more in      any of the listed countries (including China) within the last 6      months.

Ø  Official list: https://www.gov.uk/tb-test-visa/countries-where-you-need-a-tb-test-to-enter-the-uk

Additional Cases Requiring Testing

• Staying less than 6 months but applying as:

Ø  A returning resident visa

Ø  A family visa as a fiancé(e) or proposed civil partner

• Applying inside the UK for a British      National (Overseas) visa without previously providing a TB      certificate.

 

Testing Process

• Standard method: Chest X-ray

• Further testing: Sputum sample (if      X-ray results are unclear)

• Validity: Certificate valid      for 6 months from the X-ray date. Include it with your      visa application.

 

Exemptions

You are exempt if you are:

1. A diplomat posted to the UK

2. A returning UK resident absent for ≤2 years

3. Arriving under a Ukraine support scheme

 

Requirements for Children

• All children must attend a      clinic appointment.

• Under 11s: Usually exempt from      X-rays (clinician decides after assessment)

• Parents must:

Ø  Complete a health questionnaire at an approved clinic

Ø  Submit the TB certificate with the child’s visa application if cleared

 

Options for Pregnant Women

1. X-ray with extra shielding (safe      in second/third trimester)

2. Sputum test (may cost extra;      results take up to 8 weeks)

3. Postpone until after childbirth

 

Specific Rules for China/Chinese Nationals

You need a TB test if:

• You plan to stay in the UK ≥6 months

• You have lived in China (or other listed countries) for ≥6      months continuously

Additional cases requiring testing:

• Applying for a family visa as a      fiancé(e)/proposed civil partner

• A returning resident absent from the UK for      >2 years

Exemption: Not required if you are renewing a UK visa from China and returning to the UK within 6 months.

 

Preparing for Your Appointment

• Book in advance at an approved      clinic:
       Official list of clinics in China

• Documents to bring:

Ø  Valid passport/ID

Ø  One 2-inch photo

• Fees:

Ø  Aged 11+: ~550 RMB

Ø  Under 11: ~250 RMB

• Payment: Confirm payment methods      with the clinic in advance (some accept cash only)

• Clothing: Wear comfortable, easily      removable clothing without metal accessories (e.g., jewellery/hairpins)

 

Important Notes

• Keep your TB certificate safe – you cannot enter the UK without      it if required.

• Check the latest requirements before applying, as rules may      change.

• Always use approved clinics – certificates      from unauthorised providers will be rejected.

For the most current information, visit: GOV.UK TB testing guidance