Many expats are confused about healthcare and what they can claim with a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).
This is a brief guide to applying for and using an EHIC while travelling in Europe.
What is an EHIC?
The EHIC offers state healthcare at a reduced cost or for free. The card covers treatment needed to let you continue your stay until your planned return to the UK. It also covers treatment of pre-existing medical conditions and routine maternity care, as long as you’re not going abroad to give birth.
Which countries accept an EHIC?
The EHIC is valid in all European Economic Area (EEA) countries, which is the European Union plus Iceland and Switzerland
Click here for the services country-by-country
Is the card free?
Yes. Some web sites will try and charge – but you can apply for a free EHIC here
What care won’t an EHIC cover?
An EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance or private medical cover. Medical repatriation costs are not included, so seriously consider making other arrangements to deal with this eventuality.
An EHIC is not really for expats either. Many try to use the card for emergency treatment, but anyone moving abroad for any length of time other than a holiday should take out private medical insurance.
Does one EHIC cover a family?
No. Everyone, including children, has to have their own card
What about if I am travelling outside the European Economic Area (EEA)?
Some other countries have medical agreement with the UK. You can find a list here.
Regardless of whether you are in the EEA or not, some countries do not provide state medical treatment, so an EHIC is not valid.
Generally, you will receive the same treatment at the same cost as a resident in the country in question.
Are expats entitled to an EHIC?
No. Once someone leaves the UK and takes up a residency elsewhere, they lose access to the National Health Service. In some cases, pensioners and those claiming incapacity benefit may be entitled to an EHIC.
Do I have to pay for care upfront?
Some countries will expect this and you can claim a refund with your EHIC. Try to claim before returning to the UK. If you need to claim once back in the UK, call the Overseas Healthcare Team on 0191 218 1999 between 8 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday.
