The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is a valuable asset for UK residents traveling across Europe, ensuring that they can access necessary medical care on similar terms as locals. However, with the UK’s exit from the EU, there have been notable changes to the EHIC, with the introduction of the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) replacing it. This article will explain when and how to renew your EHIC (or apply for a GHIC), eligibility, and how these cards protect you during your travels.
What is the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)?
The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) allowed UK residents to access essential healthcare services during their visits to countries within the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland. It covered necessary treatments that couldn’t wait until the cardholder returned to the UK, such as emergency care, routine maternity care, and treatments for chronic or pre-existing conditions. EHICs generally enabled travelers to receive treatment either free of charge or at a reduced cost, depending on the host country’s policies.
Since January 1, 2021, the EHIC has largely been replaced by the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) for new applicants, though existing EHICs remain valid until their expiry date. For those who still qualify, particularly under the Withdrawal Agreement, it’s possible to renew the EHIC directly.
What is the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)?
The GHIC functions similarly to the EHIC, allowing UK residents to access necessary medical services while traveling in the EEA. One primary difference is that the GHIC does not cover Switzerland. However, if you still qualify under specific agreements, such as the Withdrawal Agreement, you can apply for a renewed EHIC that includes Switzerland.
Both the GHIC and EHIC serve as a supplementary healthcare cover and are not replacements for comprehensive travel insurance, which can cover additional expenses such as repatriation and care in private facilities. Therefore, it’s advisable to carry both travel insurance and your GHIC or EHIC when traveling in the EEA or Switzerland.
When Should You Renew Your EHIC or GHIC?
You can renew your GHIC or EHIC up to nine months before the expiration date listed on your card. It’s wise to renew well before you plan to travel to ensure there’s no lapse in your coverage.
To renew your card, the process is straightforward:
- Check your Expiration Date: EHICs issued before Brexit remain valid until the expiry date, so double-check to see if it’s time to apply for a renewal.
- Apply Early: You can start your renewal application nine months in advance of the expiration date.
- Gather Required Documentation: You will need to provide personal details like your full name, address, date of birth, and your National Insurance number (or Health and Care number if from Northern Ireland).
Eligibility for Renewing Your EHIC or GHIC
Most UK residents who are legally and ordinarily resident in the UK qualify for a GHIC. However, some travelers are still eligible for the EHIC under the Withdrawal Agreement. Here’s a quick eligibility breakdown:
- GHIC: For most UK residents and their families traveling within the EEA.
- EHIC: Available to those who:
- Reside in the EEA or Switzerland and have been living there since before January 1, 2021.
- Are nationals of the EEA or Switzerland who have legally resided in the UK since before January 1, 2021.
- Have other rights granted under the Withdrawal Agreement.
Each family member must have their own GHIC or EHIC. During the application process, you can apply for cards for your spouse, civil partner, or children, provided they reside with you in the UK.
Steps to Apply or Renew Your EHIC/GHIC
To apply for or renew your EHIC or GHIC, follow these steps:
- Visit the Official NHS Website: Always use the official NHS website to avoid potential fees charged by unofficial sites.
- Complete the Application Form: Submit your details and any required information, such as a reference number if you’re applying for additional family members.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Ensure all requested documents and identification proofs are uploaded if prompted.
- Wait for Confirmation: Typically, you’ll receive an email confirmation within 24 hours of applying. This confirmation email will state if your application has been approved or if additional information is required.
If approved, your card will be mailed to you within 15 working days. If it doesn’t arrive before your trip, you can request a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC), which provides temporary coverage until you receive your GHIC/EHIC.
What is Covered by the EHIC/GHIC?
Both the GHIC and EHIC cover “medically necessary” healthcare that cannot reasonably wait until your return to the UK. This may include:
- Emergency Treatment and A&E Visits: Unexpected medical emergencies.
- Treatment for Pre-existing Conditions: Routine care for long-term conditions like diabetes or asthma.
- Routine Maternity Care: For pregnancies that require standard prenatal and delivery care.
If you require specific ongoing treatments, such as dialysis or chemotherapy, it is recommended to arrange these treatments in advance with the relevant healthcare provider in the country you’re visiting.
Note: Healthcare services that local residents are charged for, like certain medications, may still require you to make a co-payment even if you have a GHIC or EHIC.
What Isn’t Covered by the EHIC/GHIC?
It’s essential to understand that the GHIC or EHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance. Some services that are excluded include:
- Medical Repatriation: The cost of returning you to the UK if you require extensive care.
- Private Healthcare Services: The GHIC or EHIC is only applicable for state-provided healthcare in the host country.
- Non-emergency Care and Luxury Services: Certain elective treatments or services like mountain rescue for skiing accidents are not covered.
Always pair your GHIC or EHIC with a robust travel insurance policy, especially if you plan to engage in potentially high-risk activities.
Traveling without Your EHIC or GHIC
If you find yourself abroad without your card and in need of medical care, you can still access healthcare services through a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC). To apply for a PRC, you’ll need to provide details such as your National Insurance number, full name, date of birth, and address.
PRCs offer temporary coverage that mirrors the EHIC or GHIC and are generally issued in emergency situations if your card hasn’t arrived in time or was forgotten.
How to Claim a Refund for Treatment Abroad
If you paid for healthcare services that should have been covered, you can claim a refund by following these steps:
- Download the Refund Claim Form: Available on the NHS Overseas Healthcare Services site.
- Provide Supporting Documents: Include receipts, medical documentation, and any other proof of your expenses.
- Submit the Form: Mail your completed form and documents to the NHS Overseas Healthcare Services office.
Ensure to keep copies of all documents for your records, as the refund process may take several weeks.
Why You Need Both GHIC/EHIC and Travel Insurance
The GHIC/EHIC offers basic healthcare coverage but falls short of a comprehensive travel insurance plan. Having both types of coverage can protect you from unexpected out-of-pocket expenses and help guarantee access to the best possible care in the event of an emergency. Whether it’s for emergency evacuation, lost luggage, or flight cancellations, travel insurance offers an additional layer of security that’s not provided by a GHIC or EHIC alone.
Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead for Peace of Mind
Keeping your GHIC or EHIC up-to-date ensures that you’ll be prepared for any unexpected healthcare needs while traveling. Whether you’re renewing an EHIC or applying for a GHIC for the first time, following these steps and understanding the limitations and benefits of each card can help you travel confidently and securely throughout Europe.
