Write a commentDid you know you can get a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) completely free? The UK Version of the European Card (EHIC) allows carriers to get state healthcare in European countries for free, or at a reduced cost.
If you're a UK resident and planning to travel abroad, you need to apply for a FREE UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) to access medically necessary state-provided healthcare when you're visiting an EU country.
Free UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC)
When visiting the EU or Switzerland you can use a GHIC card to access medically necessary state-provided healthcare.
Here's how to apply for the UK Health Insurance Card and everything you need to know...
What is Medically necessary Healthcare?
Medically necessary healthcare means healthcare that cannot reasonably wait until you come back to the UK.
Who can apply for a UK GHIC
You may be eligible for a card if you meet 1 or more of the following criteria:
> You legally live in the UK and you do not have healthcare cover provided by an EU country or Switzerland
> You live in the EU or Switzerland with a registered S1, E121, E106 or E109 form issued by the UK
> You live in the EU or Switzerland with an A1 document which is issued by the UK
> You are a family member or dependant of an entitled individual already listed above.
How to Apply
You can apply online here
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions people have regarding the Free UK Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) scheme...
Are UK GHIC Cards Free?
It's completely free to apply for your card, there are no costs whatsoever, and even postage is free.
Is it worth having a GHIC?
Absolutley! The card is free and very easy to apply for. The card covers you for some medical expenses at state facilities, including chronic illnesses that some travel insurance policies may not, giving access to travel for some travellers who otherwise might not have been able to leave the UK.
Do you still need Travel Insurance with GHIC?
Your EHIC or GHIC is not a substitute for travel insurance. It may not cover all costs and never covers repatriation costs.
It is so important to ensure you are covered for any eventuality when travelling abroad. There is nothing more important than your health, and you never know what could happen.
Travel insurance is so affordable, it's really not worth the risk of travelling without it.
Not only is travel insurance for medical cover but usually includes cover for flight delays and cancellations, lost or stolen baggage and reparations.
How long does it take to get a GHIC card?
15 working days is the quoted time from applying, but I recently applied for mine and it came within 10 working days. So if going on holiday, I would apply a minimum of 20 working days prior, just to be sure as they do state waiting times can be longer during busy periods.
How long is a GHIC Card valid?
The card has a validity of 5 years from the date of processing.
