Who does not need to be tested?

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.  
• Children under the age of 11 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 clinic decides a child does not have TB, they will issue a certificate.
• Pregnant women can choose either an x-ray with an extra shield in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters, a sputum test, or 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. 

Where does the TB test take place?

If an applicant comes from a country (here) where TB is common, the test is taken in the applicant’s country of residence. Each country has a list of approved clinics and a valid medical certificate must be issued by a medical practitioner approved by UKVI. An applicant will need to make an appointment to be screened. They will need to take their passport and one other official confirming their identity. In addition, they should take two passport photographs, payment for a TB test, and their medical recording including, if applicable, any details of a previous diagnosis of TB and treatment. 

What is the TB test procedure?

At the clinic, an applicant will be requested to complete the Informed Consent Form prior to screening. The doctor will then inquire about any current health complaints, concerns, or symptoms, previous illnesses (including tuberculosis) and treatment, and whether they have had a close friend with tuberculosis. If the doctor deems it necessary, a physical examination may be conducted.

Chest X-ray

An applicant will receive a chest X-ray to detect any abnormalities in their lungs that may indicate pulmonary tuberculosis. If, after consultation and chest X-ray, this is not clear or there are concerns the applicant may be asked to provide a sputum sample. 

Sputum Test

If the chest X-ray reveals suspicious areas or if the test results are inconclusive, the practitioner will request three sputum samples (phlegm coughed up from the lungs). An applicant should be prepared to attend the clinic on three consecutive mornings for this procedure. The provided samples will next be examined under a microscope. Occasionally, TB bacteria can be detected using a specific staining technique. However, the TB bacteria will often grow in a culture of the supplied sample, hence all samples will be cultured. It is vital to note that in many instances, obtaining a definitive diagnosis can take up to 8 weeks.

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. 

How long is the validity of a TB certificate?

After a test demonstrates that the applicant does not have tuberculosis, the applicant will receive a certificate that must be submitted within the visa application.

It is essential to note that the certificate is valid for only 6 months from the date it was granted. A candidate must thus consider the time of their application and the logistics of scheduling and traveling to an appointment at an approved clinic.

What impact will a positive TB test result have?

If there is a test positive for TB the applicant will be referred for treatment; once the treatment is complete (generally 6 months), 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. 

Prior to submitting a visa application for the United Kingdom, the applicant must obtain a screening clearance certificate from an approved clinic, confirming that the applicant is currently free of lung TB. If they will be awarded a TB-free certificate, a past diagnosis of tuberculosis will have no negative impact on their visa application.

Do I need a TB test certificate to apply for leave to remain?

The applicant will only be required to submit a TB certificate when applying for entry clearance from outside the United Kingdom. There is no necessity to submit a certificate when making an application inside the UK.