The government has provided assurances that people UK who are not in the UK legally will not face consequences if they present for a COVID-19 vaccination. The vaccine is being given free to everyone in the UK regardless of immigration status, but officials warn that other barriers may prevent vaccine take-up. The government has urged people who are not registered with a GP to contact their local doctor before getting the coronavirus vaccine. Immigration charities have asked for further assurance there will be no legal consequence for people living in the UK without documentation.

Early show that the vaccine is effective, including against some newer strains of COVID-19. Leading scientists say that the vaccine is reducing the transmission rate (R Number) of the virus. The government’s vaccination plan must reach all areas of the population to try to eliminate the virus and return to normality. In its vaccine delivery plan, the government has identified groups that are unlikely to be registered with a GP: the homeless, members of the Traveller community and also undocumented immigrants.

Despite its new commitment, the UK government has not prioritised immigrants in the vaccine delivery plan. The UN has argued for comprehensive and inclusive vaccination programmes worldwide, regardless of immigration status.