At a glance: UK Global Health Insurance Cards (GHICs) and European Health Insurance Cards (EHICs) are proof of your right to state-provided healthcare when visiting certain countries.
They’re free, work in all EU states and many other worldwide locations, and last for 5 years. They cover urgent state-provided treatment, some pre-arranged care and maternity services, but not private care, repatriation or travel disruption.
You’ve just arrived at your hotel, dropped off your bags and started thinking about all the places you want to see. A hospital room probably isn’t one of them. But if you do need medical help while you’re away, a UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) could make getting treatment simpler.
EHIC and GHIC: what you need to know
GHICs (and the older EHICs) are free cards that give UK residents access to state-provided healthcare when visiting certain countries. You might use one if you became ill or were injured abroad and needed treatment.
In most cases, with a valid card, you’ll be charged the same as a local for treatment. In some countries, that means no charge at all.
There are two versions because the EHIC was introduced when the UK was part of the European Union (EU). The GHIC replaced it under new agreements made after Brexit.
Recognising an official card
If you apply for a card, it will arrive by post. It’s a plastic, photo-free card showing your name, expiry date and a 10-character mix of letters and numbers printed on the front, usually just below your personal details. EHICs look similar but carry the older European design.
How to apply for a GHIC
The easiest way to get a GHIC is to apply online through the official NHS website. The card is free. Avoid any third-party websites that charge a fee – these are often scams.
You’ll need to provide:
- your full name and date of birth
- your UK address
- your national insurance number
- in some circumstances, your NHS number (CHI number in Scotland)
If you’re applying for more than one person, for example, a child under 16, you can add them to your application as long as you have their details. Each person will receive their own card.
How long does it take to get a GHIC card?
Once your application is approved, your card should arrive within about 15 working days. If you need to travel before it gets to you, don’t worry; the NHS can give you a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC) to use in its place.
How long does a GHIC last?
GHICs are valid for 5 years from the date they’re issued. You’ll find the expiry date on the bottom right of your card. You can renew your card for free through the NHS website up to 6 months before it expires.
If you still have a valid EHIC, you can keep using it until the expiry date shown. But it’ll only be accepted in some countries, so check the NHS website before you travel. When you renew, you’ll be issued with a GHIC instead
What countries do GHIC cards cover?
GHICs are valid across all EU member states, including popular holiday spots like Spain, Italy, France and Greece, plus smaller states such as Malta and Cyprus. In Spain, for example, you’d be able to show your GHIC at a public health centre (‘centro de salud’) or state hospital.
You can also use GHICs in:
✅ French overseas territories including Martinique, Mayotte, Guadeloupe, Reunion, French Guiana, Saint-Martin, and Corsica.
✅ some non-EU countries under reciprocal healthcare agreements – Australia, New Zealand, Jersey, Guernsey, the Isle of Man, Saint Helena, Ascension Island, Tristan da Cunha, and Montenegro (GHIC only).
✅ Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein
GHICs don’t cover countries like Monaco, San Marino, or Vatican City. We’re often asked about Turkey – but the card isn’t valid there either.
Because agreements can change, it’s worth checking the NHS website before you travel. There, you’ll find the latest list of eligible countries.
What does the GHIC card cover?
Cover can include:
✅ emergency medical care for accidents or sudden illness
✅ treatment deemed medically necessary for long-term or pre-existing conditions
✅ routine maternity care (unless you’re travelling abroad to give birth)
✅ kidney dialysis and oxygen
Your card won’t help with:
❌ private healthcare or clinics
❌ medical repatriation (bringing you home in an emergency)
❌ non-medical costs, such as extra accommodation or cancelled travel plans
❌ search-and-rescue services
How to use a GHIC card
If you need medical treatment while you’re away, simply present your GHIC or EHIC when you check in at the hospital, clinic, or health centre.
You might be asked for photo ID or to complete some paperwork, so carry your passport and any travel documents with you.
What if my card isn’t accepted?
In rare cases, hospitals or clinics might refuse your GHIC, even in countries where it should be valid.
If this happens:
- Check you’re being treated under the state system, not privately.
- Keep calm and ask if they can confirm why the GHIC can’t be used.
- In an emergency, you might have to pay and claim back the cost later. Keep all receipts, medical notes, and proof of payment.
Once you’re back in the UK, get in touch with NHS Overseas Healthcare Services to see if you’re entitled to a refund. If you’re unsure, the local British Embassy can sometimes offer guidance while you’re still abroad.
Do I need travel insurance if I have a GHIC?
GHICs aren’t a complete safety net. In some areas, state hospitals may be few and far between – and in an emergency, you could be taken to the nearest private facility, where your card won’t apply. In others, even state care may come with charges for things like consultations, equipment or overnight stays. That’s where travel insurance can step in.
What travel insurance covers that GHICs don’t
✅ Medical repatriation (bringing you home in an emergency).
✅ Extra costs when state care isn’t fully free – such as scans, medical equipment, or hospital stay charges.
✅ Additional expenses if your trip is disrupted, such as accommodation or new travel arrangements.
✅ Protection for cancellations, delays, and lost or stolen baggage.
If you’re able to use your GHIC or the state medical system for treatment, Avanti will waive the excess you’d normally pay towards any related claims*.
The bottom line
GHICs and EHICs can help with the cost of state-provided healthcare, but they won’t cover everything. Without travel insurance, you could still face big bills for things like getting home in a medical emergency, rearranging travel plans, or replacing lost baggage.
Avanti Travel Insurance can help sort the things your GHIC or EHIC can’t, with:
- no upper age limit
- specialist cover for pre-existing medical conditions
- 24/7 emergency medical support
- cover for cancellation, cutting your holiday short, personal baggage and more
So, before you travel, check your card’s expiry date and make sure it’s valid for your destination. Then get a quote for cover that will go the distance with you.
*Please see our policy documents for further information on GHIC excess waiver.
