A HIV Test Certificate is often required by organisations to confirm your HIV status, usually for official purposes like long-term travel visas, work visas (especially for jobs with blood exposure), or resident permits. The certificate will include your name, passport number, date of birth, passport issue date, unique ID number, and sample collection details. The HIV certificate is included in the cost of the test.
Countries With HIV Restrictions
For Long Term Stays & Work Permits, please check with the respective embassy when your HIV test must be taken, in which country and what details they require.
Journey Overview
#1 Pre-Appointment Questionnaire
To be as prepared for your appointment as possible, complete the questionnaire.
#2 Confirm Your ID
Your ID will be confirmed using your Passport/Driving Licence.
#3 Collect Samples & Process Tests
Necessary samples will be collected and tests processed.
#4 Receive HIV Certificate By Email (Same Day)
Once your results are ready, a certificate of testing will be emailed to you.
Common HIV Tests
| HIV 4th Generation (Rapid Test) | HIV-1 RNA PCR | HIV-1 Viral Load | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biological Marker | HIV 1&2 antibody + p24 antigen | HIV-1 RNA & Pro Viral DNA | HIV-1 RNA |
| Window Period | From 45 days | From 10 days | Used for monitoring established infection |
| Detection Method | Immunochromatography (Instant Test), Qualitative | PCR, Qualitative | PCR, Quantitative |
| Sample Type | Blood | Blood | Blood |
| Result Time | 30 minutes | 4 hours | 4 working days |
| Result Output | Not Detected / Equivocal | Not Detected / Detected | Copies/mL or Undetectable |
| Price (with Consultation) | £130 | £200 | £200 |
| Price (Drop & Go) | £70 | £140 | N/A |
FAQs
A HIV Test Certificate is sometimes requested by organisations seeking confirmation of your (often negative) HIV status.
Along with your result, the certificate will confirm the following:
- Your name
- Your passport number, date of birth and the date your passport was issued
- Your Unique ID Number
- Details of when your sample was collected
This document can be used for official purposes, including:
- Long term travel visas
- Work visas (esp. when your job may expose you to blood)
- Resident permits
No, usually a HIV certificate for work or visa applications requires the test to be performed by a certified medical professional at a clinic. Home tests do not typically meet these requirements as they lack the necessary chain of custody and professional verification.
Many countries have restrictions regarding HIV status for long-term stays, work permits, and residency. These countries often include (but are not limited to) those in the Middle East, parts of Asia, and some in Eastern Europe. It is crucial to check with the specific embassy or consulate of the country you intend to visit or work in, as requirements can vary significantly and change over time. They will also specify when the test must be taken and what details are required on the certificate.
In many countries with HIV restrictions for visas and work permits, a positive HIV test result may lead to the rejection of your application. However, policies vary between countries, and some may have exceptions or specific programs. It is advisable to consult with the respective embassy or immigration authority to understand their exact policies regarding HIV-positive applicants.
The time to receive your HIV certificate depends on the type of HIV test you undergo:
- For an Instant HIV Test, results and the certificate can be available within 30 minutes.
- For a Full Bloods Screen (which includes HIV), results and the certificate can be available within 30 minutes.
The process generally involves a pre-booking questionnaire, ID confirmation, sample collection, and then emailing the certificate once results are ready.
Jobs that often require an HIV test certificate, especially in countries with HIV restrictions, typically include:
- Healthcare workers (doctors, nurses, dentists)
- Teachers and educators
- Food handlers and hospitality workers
- Any profession that involves close contact with the public or potential exposure to bodily fluids.
It is essential to confirm the specific requirements with your employer or the relevant visa authority for the country where you plan to work.
Generally, an HIV certificate is not required for short-term tourist visits or holidays. HIV restrictions typically apply to long-term stays, work permits, residency, or specific visa categories. However, it is always recommended to check the entry requirements for your specific destination country, as regulations can vary.
Fees
HIV Testing
Instant HIV Test - £130 (£70 as Drop & Go)
10 Day HIV Test - £200 (£140 as Drop & Go)
HIV Viral Load Test - £200
PEP - £550
This must be started within 72 hours of potential exposure to HIV. This includes the consultation/assessment, PEP medications for 28 days and baseline HIV 4th Generation and Hepatitis B/C tests. Any follow up care/tests are additional.
PrEP
One-month supply - £70
Patient Feedback
Page last reviewed by Dr Manoj Malu on 13 October 2023 for general guidance only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your clinician.