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NHS IVF Eligibility Checker

Find out if you qualify for NHS-funded IVF and how many cycles your local ICB funds. Enter your postcode and answer a few questions to get an instant eligibility estimate — then compare against the real cost of going private.

Data source: GOV.UK NHS-funded IVF in England (2025-09-11). 38 ICBs with published policies, 4 under review.

NICE CG156

Can I get IVF on the NHS in the UK in 2026?

NHS IVF availability varies dramatically by where you live. Scotland funds 3 full cycles for eligible patients. Wales funds 2 cycles. Northern Ireland typically funds 1 cycle. England is a postcode lottery — funding varies by Integrated Care Board (ICB): a few ICBs fund the NICE-recommended 3 cycles, but many fund only 1, and a small number fund none. Common eligibility criteria: under 40 (some ICBs cap at 35 or 42), BMI 19–30, non-smoking, no existing children, partner has no children from a previous relationship (in some areas). Use the eligibility checker below to see what your local ICB funds.
Check eligibility for your local ICB

Eligibility next steps

Check NHS funding, then compare the private fallback

IVF eligibility visitors need a fast postcode answer, then a practical route if local funding is limited or delayed.

Check NHS wait in your areaUse postcode and eligibility criteria to identify your ICB route.Compare postcode fundingSee the ICB postcode lottery and cycle limits.See private price rangeCompare advertised and realistic private IVF costs.Compare providersFind HFEA-licensed clinics and local options.Submit a price updateSend a clinic quote or package fee.Ask for verificationRequest reviewer or editorial checking.

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Step 1 of 8: Postcode

Where do you live?

Your postcode determines which NHS Integrated Care Board (ICB) covers your area and what IVF funding they offer.

How long will you wait?

February 2026

Even if you qualify for NHS IVF, you'll first need a gynaecology referral. Private fertility clinics offer initial consultations within 1–2 weeks.

NHS Gynaecology15.8 weeks

median wait

Private clinic7–21 days

typical wait

583,000 people waiting in England7,800 waiting over 52 weeks
Compare private fertility clinics →

Frequently asked questions

How many IVF cycles does the NHS fund?

NICE recommends 3 full cycles for eligible women under 40 and 1 for ages 40-42. In practice, most ICBs fund only 1 non-full cycle. The most generous ICBs (North East and North Cumbria, North East London) fund 3 full cycles plus 1 additional for ages 40-42. Four ICBs are currently under review.

What is the NHS IVF age limit?

The maximum age varies by ICB from 35 to 42. The most restrictive ICBs (Buckinghamshire/Oxfordshire/Berkshire West, Frimley, Hampshire & IoW) cap at 35. Most set the limit at 39-42. Some offer reduced cycles for ages 40-42.

What is the IVF postcode lottery?

The “IVF postcode lottery” describes the wide variation in NHS IVF funding across England. NICE recommends 3 cycles, but ICBs set their own policies. Some fund 3 full cycles; the majority fund just 1 non-full cycle. Age limits, BMI requirements, and children restrictions also vary. Your postcode determines which ICB covers you.

How much does private IVF cost in the UK?

The UK average advertised IVF price is £4,890/cycle, but the true cost (including medication, ICSI, tests, consultations, storage) is closer to £6,210. London clinics average £5,877 advertised / £7,463 true cost. Budget £6,000-£8,000 outside London and £7,500-£10,000 in London for one complete cycle.

Can I get NHS IVF if my partner has children?

Most ICBs do not fund IVF if either partner has any living child — including from previous relationships. This is one of the most common disqualifying factors.

How long is the NHS IVF waiting list?

NHS IVF waiting times typically range from 12-18 months from GP referral to starting treatment. Some areas have 2+ year waits. Private IVF usually starts within 4-8 weeks. The investigation and referral process can add 6-12 months before you join the waiting list.

Sources & further reading

Important disclaimer

This tool provides information based on publicly available ICB commissioning policies published by GOV.UK. It does not constitute medical advice. ICB policies can change between GOV.UK publication updates. Always confirm your eligibility with your GP. No personal health data is stored — your inputs are processed in your browser and are not sent to our servers.

ICB policy data from GOV.UK NHS-funded IVF in England (2025-09-11), published under the Open Government Licence v3.0. HFEA clinic data from hfea.gov.uk.