As a result of Brexit, the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is being replaced by the Global Health Insurance Card, of GHIC. For more information on the GHIC, as well as how to apply, visit our Global Health Insurance Page
What is the EHIC (European Health Insurance Card)?
The EHIC was formerly known as the E111 form. Introduced to provide travellers with the same medical treatment received by local residents, either for free or at a reduced cost. Anyone covered by the statuary social scheme — made up of EEA countries and Switzerland — is entitled to receive medical care. Therefore, should an incident occur on your travels and you require medical attention, you won't necessarily need to return home.
It's important to understand your EHIC entitlement and why you may still need a holiday insurance policy too.
Cover provided by your EHIC
Should you have an accident and require immediate medical attention, treatments you receive may be covered by the EHIC. This does include medical conditions and pregnancy, providing you aren't travelling specifically for treatment or to give birth. If labour occurs unexpectedly then of course you will receive medical care and the EHIC will cover any treatment for mother and baby. The same applies to any emergency treatment required for your existing condition.
Will I have to pay for any medical treatment?
This varies from country to country. In some countries, like the UK, medical treatment is free. However, in other participating countries you might have to pay for treatment up front or contribute a sum - also know as a co-payment. Retain all paperwork regarding medical treatment you receive, you may be able to claim your money back upon return to the UK.
It is also important to remember that the level of care varies from country to country also.
What does the EHIC not cover?
You need to know what your EHIC will not cover you for so additional costs don't come as too much of a shock. The good news is, if you have secured a travel insurance policy in addition to your EHIC - you are covered for everything listed below and more!
1. Private medical cover
If there's no state healthcare available, your EHIC won't cover the costs of private hospitals, leaving you stung with high costs. By adding travel insurance, you'll be able to avoid this, and not have to worry about which kind of hospital you're going to.
2. Mountain rescue
If you're skiing and the worst happens, the EHIC won't cover mountain rescue costs.
3. Getting you home
In an emergency, you won't be covered for the costs of getting you home safely.
4. Theft, lost luggage and hijacking
A good travel insurance policy is vital for covering you under such circumstances.
How do I apply or renew my EHIC?
Applying for your EHIC is quick and simple, it is also absolutely free. You should not have to pay for it, so be sure to use the official website here to renew and apply for your EHIC. Do not trust sites promising a faster service for a fee.
Holiday Extras Travel Insurance is sold and administered by Holiday Extras Cover Limited who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under registration number 828848.
Holiday Extras™ is a Trading Name of Holiday Extras Cover Limited
Holiday Extras Travel Insurance is provided by Taurus Insurance Services, an insurance intermediary licenced and authorised in Gibraltar by the Financial Services Commission under Permission Number 5566 and authorised to passport general insurance intermediary services into the UK and registered with the Financial Conduct Authority in the UK under registration number 444830.
The insurance is underwritten by Great Lakes Insurance UK Limited. Great Lakes Insurance UK Limited is a company incorporated in England and Wales with company number 13436330 and whose registered office address is 10 Fenchurch Avenue, London, United Kingdom, EC3M 5BN. Great Lakes Insurance UK Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Firm Reference Number 955859. You can check this on the Financial Services Register by visiting; register.fca.org.uk or by contacting the Financial Conduct Authority on 0800 111 6768.