The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) and its UK successor, the Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC), allow British residents to access state-provided medical care during temporary stays in the European Union, European Economic Area, and Switzerland on the same terms as local residents.
The EHIC and GHIC entitle the holder to medically necessary state healthcare while abroad. This includes treatment that cannot reasonably wait until return to the UK, treatment for chronic or pre-existing medical conditions, and routine maternity care that is not specifically for the purpose of giving birth abroad.
Following the UK's withdrawal from the European Union, new EHIC cards are no longer issued to most UK applicants. The Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) replaces it for new applications and offers the same protections within the EU. Existing EHIC cards remain valid until their expiry date printed on the card.
Both cards are issued free of charge through the official NHS Business Services Authority. Applicants should be cautious of third-party websites charging administrative fees for what is a free service.
The GHIC is accepted in all 27 EU member states. The EHIC is additionally accepted in Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. Specific cover and reciprocal arrangements vary between countries, and travellers are advised to check destination-specific guidance before departure.
Applications can be made online through the NHS Business Services Authority. Standard processing takes around ten working days, with the card delivered by post. There is no charge for the application or for the card itself.