People from outside the EU will be charged 150% of the cost of their NHS care in a bid to crack down on "health tourism".
The Department of Health claims the move will recover up to £500 million a year for the taxpayer.
Visitors and migrants can currently get free NHS care soon after arrival to the UK.
Trusts have been asked to identify patients from outside the EU more "effectively" so that costs can be recovered. And trusts that fail to identify and charge patients could face fines.
People from outside the EU will be charged 150% of the cost of their NHS care in a bid to crack down on "health tourism".
The Department of Health claims the move will recover up to £500 million a year for the taxpayer.
Visitors and migrants can currently get free NHS care soon after arrival to the UK.
Trusts have been asked to identify patients from outside the EU more "effectively" so that costs can be recovered. And trusts that fail to identify and charge patients could face fines.
Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt said: "We have no problem with international visitors using the NHS as long as they pay for it – just as British families do through their taxes.
"These plans will help recoup up to £500 million a year, making sure the NHS is better resourced and more sustainable at a time when doctors and nurses on the frontline are working very hard."
