If you’re planning a trip to Europe, a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is something you’ll want to have in your wallet.
It can save you a ton of money and stress if you need to access healthcare when holidaying in a European country. In this article, we’re breaking down what the GHIC is, why it’s useful and how you can make sure you’re covered on your next Euro trip.
What is a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)?
The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) allows you to access essential medical care when you’re travelling in European countries, as if you were a local. It entitles you to state healthcare in the European Economic Area (EEA) and a few other places, so you won’t be stuck with massive bills for necessary treatment while you’re abroad.
Where can I use my GHIC card?
You can use your UK GHIC in the following places:
- Countries in the European Economic Area (EEA): Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Republic of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden
- Montenegro
- Australia
- Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man
- St Helena, Tristan da Cunha and Ascension Island
You can also use a UK GHIC in Switzerland if you are:
- A British national
- A Swiss national
- An EU citizen
- A refugee or stateless person
- A family member of someone with one of the above nationalities or statuses
The UK government is working to add more countries to the coverage list, so always check the latest info before you travel.
What does the GHIC cover?
A GHIC covers healthcare that’s considered medically necessary while you’re in the EU. Basically, it’s for treatment that can’t wait until you’re back in the UK. This includes things like:
- Emergency treatment
- A&E visits
- Managing pre-existing conditions
- Routine maternity care (if you’re not intending to give birth in the country)
- Kidney dialysis
Some treatments, like dialysis, may need to be prearranged before you travel.
What doesn't the GHIC cover?
A GHIC doesn’t cover everything. It won’t pay for being flown back to the UK (medical repatriation), treatment at private medical facilities, or things like ski or mountain rescue.
Is treatment free with a GHIC card?
Whether or not your treatment is free with a GHIC card depends on the country you are visiting, as not all state healthcare is free outside of the UK.
The GHIC card entitles you to the same level of care as a resident of that country would get. So if a local would need to pay for the treatment you’re having, then you’ll have to pay too.
Before you set off, you should check the healthcare services provided by the state in your destination country, and understand any potential charges.
How much does the GHIC cost?
The UK GHIC card is completely free and is valid for up to five years. There’s no cost to apply or renew it. Just be sure to apply through the official NHS website to avoid any third-party fees.
Do I still need travel insurance if I have a GHIC?
Yes, you still need travel insurance even if you have a GHIC. While the GHIC covers essential state healthcare, it doesn’t cover private treatment and things unrelated to your health like lost luggage or getting flown back to the UK because of a cancellation. Travel insurance fills in those gaps and gives you important peace of mind.
What are the differences between EHIC and GHIC?
The main difference between the EHIC and GHIC is the countries they cover. The old EHIC, which used to be called the E111, included some non-EU countries like Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway.
The GHIC, however, doesn’t cover those countries – it’s mostly for the EU. Other than that, they’re pretty similar.
What happened to the EHIC?
The EHIC was effectively cancelled for new UK applicants after Brexit. If you already have an EHIC, it’s still valid until the expiry date, but you can’t apply for a new one.
Instead, the GHIC has taken its place. So, once your EHIC expires, you’ll need to switch to a GHIC if you still want that cover.
How do I apply for a GHIC card?
You can apply for a GHIC if you’re a UK resident and can add family members to your application too.
You’ll need to provide your:
- Full name
- Address
- Date of birth
- National Insurance number (or Health and Care number if you’re from Northern Ireland)
Once your application is approved, you should get your card in the mail within 15 working days.
Who can get a GHIC?
You’ll be eligible to a UK GHIC card if both of these things apply:
- you’re ordinarily and legally resident in the UK
- you do not have healthcare cover provided by an EEA country or Switzerland
You could also be entitled to a UK GHIC if you’re:
- living in the EEA or Switzerland with a registered S1 form
- living in the EEA or Switzerland with an A1 document issued by the UK
- a family member or dependant of an entitled individual already listed
Do we recommend having a GHIC Card at Cheap Holiday Expert?
Absolutely! It’s free, easy to apply for, and gives you peace of mind when travelling in Europe. Although it helps you get the healthcare you need without hefty costs, it doesn’t cover everything – like private care or repatriation. Still, it’s a solid backup for state healthcare. Just don’t forget – it works best alongside travel insurance.
