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European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)
The European Health Insurance Card has replaced the E111 form.
On 31 December 2005, the E111 ceased to be valid. From 1 January 2006,
you need a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) to receive healthcare
that becomes necessary during your visit to an EEA country or Switzerland.
In most countries around the world you will have to pay for treatment
so travellers are strongly advised to take out private
health insurance. The UK has reciprocal healthcare agreements with
some countries, which enables travellers to receive free or low cost emergency
care.
The EHIC is a card that entitles the holder to free or reduced cost emergency
medical treatment anywhere in the European Economic Area (EEA).
If you become ill or have an accident during a trip to Europe, just present
your EHIC to the hospital or doctor who is treating you. The EHIC entitles
you to the same treatment as residents of the country you're visiting.
Only treatment provided under the state scheme is covered.
Note: the EHIC is not a substitute for comprehensive travel insurance.
Who is eligible for an EHIC?
Any person who is ordinarily resident in the UK, is eligible for an EHIC.
However, you must be over 16 years of age in order to apply. Residents
of the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man are not eligible.
All EEA (European Economic Area) countries are to issue the European
Health Insurance Card (EHIC) as a replacement for the E111 form.
How to apply for an EHIC
EHIC Applications Line: 0845 606 2030
Pick up an EHIC application pack from your local Post Office branch.
Online via the EHIC
website.
Your European Health Insurance Card will be delivered within 7-10 days
of your application. An EHIC will last from 3 to 5 years.
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