What is the UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)?

The UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) is a free card issued by the NHS Business Services Authority that allows eligible UK residents to access medically necessary state-provided healthcare in the European Economic Area (EEA)—which includes all EU countries plus Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway—plus Switzerland, Montenegro, and some British Overseas Territories. It provides treatment on the same terms and at the same cost as a local resident (which may still involve fees like co-payments). The GHIC replaced the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) in 2021, but valid EHICs can still be used until they expire.

What to Do with Your GHIC: Key Actions

If you've received a GHIC (or have an existing one/EHIC), here's what you should do to make the most of it:

1. Keep It Safe and Carry It When Traveling: Always take your GHIC with you on trips to covered countries. Present it at state healthcare facilities (e.g., public hospitals or GP clinics) if you need emergency or necessary treatment. It covers things like A&E visits, treatment for chronic conditions, or maternity care (but not elective procedures or if you're traveling specifically for treatment).
2. Check Validity and Renew If Needed: The GHIC is valid for up to 5 years. Check the expiry date on your card. Apply for renewal online via the official NHS website (nhs.uk/GHIC) at least 2 weeks before travel to ensure it arrives in time. Renewal is free—avoid third-party sites that charge fees.
3. Get Travel Insurance Regardless: The GHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance. It won't cover private care, repatriation (e.g., flights home due to illness), rescue services, or non-essential treatments. Always buy comprehensive travel insurance before traveling.
4. Understand Coverage Limits:
   • What it covers: Medically necessary care (decided by local providers) that's urgent and can't wait until you return to the UK.
   • What it doesn't cover: Private hospitals, dental (except emergencies), repatriation, or costs beyond what locals pay. You may still face charges like user fees—pay them upfront and claim reimbursement from the NHS Overseas Healthcare Services if eligible. For pre-planned treatments (e.g., dialysis), contact the NHS Overseas Healthcare Team (+44 191 218 1999) in advance.
5. If You've Lost It or Need Urgent Cover: Apply for a Provisional Replacement Certificate (PRC) by calling the NHS Overseas Healthcare Team. This provides temporary cover equivalent to the GHIC but can't be obtained in advance.
6. Lost or Stolen? Report and Replace: Report it to the police if stolen, then apply for a replacement via the NHS website. You'll get a digital version immediately while waiting for the physical card.

Where Can You Use It?

• EEA countries: All EU nations + Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway.
• Other countries: Switzerland, Montenegro, and select British Overseas Territories (e.g., Guernsey). Check GOV.UK's country-specific guides for details on accessing care. For non-covered countries, rely fully on travel insurance.

If your GHIC is expired, damaged, or you're unsure about eligibility (e.g., as a student or dual national), visit the official NHS GHIC application page or contact the NHS Business Services Authority for personalized advice. Safe travels!