The Times is reporting that the UK government is considering plans to test all immigrants for HIV.
Although the policy is still said to be under review, it is said to have the backing of key ministers. There is currently no requirement for migrants to the UK to test for HIV, and in recent months tabloid papers have run several stories highlighting the “cost” which HIV-positive asylum seekers are placing on the NHS.
A medical screening procedure similar to those used by Australia and Canada, who require people applying for permanent residency to test for HIV, is reported to be the option favoured by the UK government.
Under the plan people with HIV would not be barred from entering the country (unlike some countries, most notably the USA), but would have their right to free treatment from the National Health Service (NHS) restricted.
Currently, immigration and customs officers can refer people applying for entry to the UK to the port medical officer if they appear unwell. Such a referral is also likely to occur if a person says they are entering the UK in order to access healthcare.
Further information on this website
NHS and non-UK nationals Factsheet