EHIC
European Health Insurance Card.
Planning a trip to Europe? The EHIC (now GHIC for UK residents) gives you access to state-provided healthcare in EU countries during a temporary stay. We help with the application, explain the scope of cover, and advise on how to protect yourself in case of illness or accident abroad.
What is EHIC / GHIC
Your card for accessing healthcare across Europe
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) — and its post-Brexit UK replacement, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) — entitles you to state-provided healthcare in countries within the European Economic Area and Switzerland. The card covers treatment that is medically necessary during a temporary stay, but it is not a substitute for full travel insurance.
- Free or reduced-cost medical treatment in EU/EEA countries
- Coverage for essential treatment while on a holiday trip
- Access to public healthcare on the same terms as local residents
- The card does not cover planned treatment or medical repatriation
Application
How to get a GHIC while living in the UK
You can apply for a GHIC free of charge through the NHS website. The process requires your National Insurance number and personal details. The card is valid for five years and covers both the applicant and their dependants. We help you through the entire process — from completing the application to receiving the card.
- Assistance with the online NHS application
- Cards for your whole family in a single application
- The card is issued free of charge — beware of paid scam sites
- Processing time is typically up to 10 working days
EHIC vs GHIC
What Brexit changed — differences between the cards
After the UK left the European Union, existing UK-issued EHIC cards were replaced by the GHIC. The new card works in a similar way but has a narrower territorial scope — it is not valid in Switzerland, Norway, Iceland or Liechtenstein. If you still hold a valid EHIC, you can continue using it until the expiry date printed on the card.
- GHIC is accepted in EU countries but not in non-EU EEA states
- A valid EHIC remains usable until its expiry date
- Once your EHIC expires, you need to apply for a new GHIC
- Separate travel insurance is still recommended for every trip
Need an EHIC card?
Talk to our adviser.
We will help you obtain a GHIC for you and your family. We will explain the scope of cover and suggest how to stay protected before you travel. Free consultation, no obligation.